DAP Disability Advocate

AGENCY BACKGROUND: Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation (NMIC) is a community-based, not-for-profit organization founded in 1979. NMIC has grown into a leading multi-service agency with over 140 staff members serving New York City with a focus on upper Manhattan and the Bronx. Our mission is to serve as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of the people in our community on their paths to secure and prosperous futures. Integration is the cornerstone of NMIC’s programs, and our staff can identify and address a broad array of immediate needs through comprehensive crisis intervention services. With their matters resolved, clients move seamlessly to capacity building services through our holistic programs designed to transition individuals and families to self-sufficiency.

• Our Legal, Organizing, Advocacy, and Weatherization programs meet community members’basic needs including legal representation, immigration assistance, housing advocacy, tenantorganizing, financial services, DV and health related matters
• Our Education & Career Services program impacts individual community members with thepractical tools necessary to build secure and prosperous futures

Job Title: Disability Advocate
Department: Legal, Organizing, & Advocacy
Unit: Housing & Public Benefits
Reports to: Coordinating Benefits Attorney
Location: Main Office: 45 Wadsworth Avenue, NY, NY 10033
FLSA: Exempt or Non-Exempt (depending on qualifications and salary offered)
Model: Hybrid

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES: NMIC’s Disability Advocate is a position with NMIC’s Disability Advocacy Program. The advocate will work under the supervision of an experienced disability attorney to provide advocacy and representation on behalf of community members whose Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits have been inappropriately denied, terminated, or recouped. Relevant experience with disability law and advocacy is strongly preferred; compassion, patience, and organizational skills are required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Interview clients from internal and external referrals to conduct intakes.
• Assess clients for disability legal services and other in-house services/programs.
• Maintain up-to-date information on program resources available inside and outside the agency.
• Document all interactions with clients, including follow-ups. Documentation includes progressnotes, demographic and other required information in NMIC’s client database, release forms,and other necessary electronic and/or physical records.
• Assist clients with collecting documentation in preparation for Social Security administrativehearings.
• Under supervision, provide advocacy and representation to community members in SocialSecurity hearings.
• Develop in-depth substantive knowledge of Social Security disability law.
• A demonstrated commitment to social and racial justice issues; understanding of challengesfacing immigrant communities, communities of color, and low-income populations.
• Flexibility regarding client schedules and willingness to work with clients to meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Must be detail-oriented and have capacity to work independently to meet deadlines.
• Attend staff meetings and team meetings as required.
• Participate in educational conferences and trainings.
• Additional related responsibilities may be assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant area or equivalent experience. Background and substantiveknowledge in Social Security disability law, especially Supplemental Security Income stronglypreferred.
• Fluency in English/Spanish is required.
• Advocacy experience preferred, especially with immigrant communities.
• Knowledge of trauma and strong commitment to social justice.
• Experience working with diverse and underserved communities preferred.
• Demonstrated computer/technology literacy.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and verbal/written communication skills.
• Ability to handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively and to interact with management and program staff.

SALARY/BENEFITS:

SALARY: $58,500-$67,000

NMIC offers a competitive salary based on experience and education as well as a comprehensive and generous benefits package: medical, dental, life, and disability insurance are included; paid time off, including 20 vacation days, 15 sick days, 5 personal days, and 11 agency holidays plus the week off from Christmas Eve through New Year's Day; a 401k with agency contribution; and other benefits.

NMIC IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: NMIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively encourages candidates of diverse backgrounds to apply for employment. Applicants must meet the minimum qualification requirements. A combination of education and experience will be considered unless specifically stated otherwise.

Salary : $58,500 - $67,000