The Assistant Director supports the Program Director in the day-to-day operations of the Carter Burden Older Adult Center, ensuring the smooth coordination of services, compliance with Department for the Aging (DFTA) requirements, and delivery of high-quality programs and meals to older adult participants.
The Assistant Director embodies strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with an emphasis on community engagement, operational oversight, and participant support. The ideal candidate demonstrates flexibility, compassion, and a collaborative spirit, with a commitment to CBN’s mission and values.
The Assistant Director plays a central role in modeling and reinforcing these values across staff, volunteers, and program participants:
- Responsibility: Ensures daily operations, reporting, and program delivery meet organizational and funder standards, taking ownership of outcomes and follow-through.
- Boldness: Contributes new ideas to enhance member engagement, improve efficiency, and strengthen community partnerships.
- Heart: Builds genuine connections with members, volunteers, and staff, fostering a welcoming, compassionate environment.
- Respect: Demonstrates professionalism and empathy in every interaction, honoring the individuality, culture, and experiences of older adults and colleagues.
- Community: Creates an inclusive and vibrant environment that values participation, collaboration, and shared purpose within the Luncheon Club and broader CBN network.
Essential Duties
The Assistant Program Director will support the Director and Older Adult Center members through a variety of tasks, including:
Program & Operations Support
- Assist with the daily management of the Luncheon Club, ensuring programs and operations run smoothly and align with DFTA standards.
- Develop and prepare monthly activity calendars in consultation with the Program Director.
- Conduct classes, activities, and special events, including evidence-based programs in accordance with DFTA standards.
- Support meal service operations, including maintaining required safety, sanitation, and food protection standards.
- Act as on-site lead in the absence of the Program Director.
Case Assistance & Participant Support
- Maintain NYC Aging Case Assistance/Information & Referral (CA/IR) units.
- Provide direct participant assistance and referrals to community resources as needed.
- Maintain member records and documentation in the PeerPlace database in compliance with reporting requirements.
Community Engagement
- Promote programs, events, and services through outreach and partnerships to increase participation and community visibility.
- Support the Volunteer Corps in engaging and coordinating volunteer activities that enhance program delivery.
Administrative & Fiscal Support
- Assist the Program Director with budget oversight and fiscal management.
- Support procurement and supply tracking, ensuring adherence to program budgets and reporting timelines.
- Assist with facility management and ensure compliance with all safety, health, and DFTA performance standards.
Trips & Special Events
- Plan, organize, and supervise on-site and off-site trips, special events, and holiday programs.
- Provide coverage on DFTA cooling days, including extended and weekend hours as required by NYC Aging.
Core Competencies
- Operational Excellence – Manages daily center functions efficiently and ensures compliance with DFTA and CBN standards.
- Case Assistance & Participant Support – Provides compassionate guidance, referrals, and advocacy for older adult members.
- Communication & Collaboration – Communicates clearly, listens actively, and fosters cooperation across teams.
- Fiscal & Administrative Responsibility – Supports budgeting, reporting, and resource stewardship with accuracy and integrity.
- Adaptability & Problem Solving – Responds flexibly to changing priorities and resolves issues with calm efficiency.
Embodiment of Core Values – Demonstrates responsibility, boldness, heart, respect, and community in all aspects of work.
Skills and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field (or an Associate’s degree with 2-3 years relevant experience).
- Familiarity with DFTA standards.
- Possession of an NYC Certificate in Food Protection or willingness to obtain.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including effective communication and conflict resolution abilities.
- Cultural competence and the ability to work with diverse populations.
- Availability to support center operations, including lunch service and emergency response efforts.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position does not have direct reports; however, they do ensure program continuity in the Directors absence, including oversight to volunteers, part-time staff, or interns in coordination with the Program Director.
Physical Requirements: The role is based in a senior center environment, requiring a mix of administrative work and direct interaction with program participants. Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally for program setup or event preparation. The position may require standing for extended periods, especially during events or meal services. The work environment is primarily indoors but may include outdoor activities for trips or community outreach. Must also be able to assist with light physical activities when necessary, such as helping clients with mobility issues during assessments or while transitioning from one area to another.