Bilingual Russian/English Social Worker- Help Center in New York, New York at JASA

As a Bilingual Russian/English Social Worker in JASA’s Help Center, you’ll serve as the first point of contact for older adults, caregivers, family members, and professionals seeking information, support, and services. Through screening, assessment, information and referral, and benefits advocacy, you’ll help connect individuals to critical programs and resources that support aging safely and independently in the community.

Shift Schedule:

• Monday–Friday, 9AM-5PM

Hours Per Week:

• 35

JASA is one of NYC’s largest and most trusted nonprofit organizations serving older adults. Through the Help Center, we provide guidance, support, and connections to services that help older New Yorkers access the care and resources they need to live independently and with dignity.

Meaningful Impact:

• Support older adults and caregivers navigating complex systems of care and services
• Help individuals access benefits, programs, and community-based supports

Community Connection:

• Build relationships with older adults, caregivers, professionals, and community members across NYC
• Provide culturally responsive and linguistically appropriate services in Russian and English

Collaborative Environment:

• Partner with internal JASA programs and external aging service providers
• Work as part of a multidisciplinary, mission-driven team

Professional Growth:

• Develop expertise in aging services, benefits and entitlements, care coordination, and crisis support
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities

As a Help Center Social Worker, you’ll provide information, referral, assessment, and advocacy services to older adults and caregivers through phone, email, and text-based communication.

• Provide information and assistance regarding long-term care services and supports
• Connect individuals to appropriate programs and services based on identified needs
• Provide follow-up regarding referrals and service linkage outcomes
• Serve as a resource for older adults, caregivers, families, and professionals

• Conduct intake and screening via phone, email, and text communication
• Gather preliminary information about client needs and circumstances
• Assess eligibility for programs, services, and benefits/entitlements
• Identify barriers to accessing services and provide appropriate referrals and advocacy

• Assist with screening for benefits and entitlement programs
• Provide guidance on applications for public benefits and services
• Advocate to help clients access eligible supports
• Provide information on healthcare, social services, recreation, and community resources

• Educate older adults and caregivers on:
  • Aging-related physical, social, and psychological changes
  • Available community supports and services
  • Strategies to maintain independence and well-being
• Support transitions of care and changing service needs

• Collaborate with JASA programs and external service providers
• Participate in outreach and education activities to promote Help Center services
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions
• Build and maintain relationships with community partners

• Complete required case documentation, reports, and statistical tracking
• Use agency databases and systems to maintain accurate records
• Follow all JASA standards and program protocols
• Report crisis situations or concerns to supervisory staff

• Use a strength-based, person-centered approach in all interactions
• Provide culturally responsive and non-judgmental services to diverse populations
• Perform additional duties as assigned

• Master’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Gerontology, or related field required within two months of start date

• 1–2 years of experience working with older adults preferred
• Experience in geriatrics, intake, screening, or case management preferred

• Bilingual Russian/English required

• Strong knowledge of long-term care systems and aging services in NYC
• Excellent communication, listening, and interpersonal skills
• Strong assessment, screening, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Cultural competence and sensitivity to issues of race, ethnicity, religion, and identity
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Proficiency with computers and web-based systems
• Experience with databases and case management systems preferred
• Ability to learn new technology platforms quickly

JASA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and future:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options
• Employee Wellness Programs (fitness + mental health support)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• 403(b) retirement plan

• Paid vacation time
• Holidays and floating holidays
• Paid time off for work-life balance

• Training and continuing education opportunities
• Career growth within the organization

• Employee recognition programs celebrating contributions

JASA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected classification under federal, state, or local law.