Re-entry Program Associate Position

Appellate Advocates is a nonprofit public defender organization, based in New York City, providing high-quality representation of individuals who have been convicted of crimes in Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island and cannot afford private lawyers. We are a group of attorneys from diverse backgrounds who are experienced in criminal law and believe in fighting for every person’s constitutional right to a fair trial and in working to overturn unjust convictions and sentences and provide other post-conviction services.

Appellate Advocates is deeply committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. To this end, we seek to:

• Hire staff that reflect the full range of racial, ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic identities of the communities we represent, particularly those communities disproportionately impacted by the criminal justice system;

• Ensure a workplace where diversity and inclusion is fostered and different perspectives are valued and freely exchanged; and

• Ensure that all staff members feel welcome, respected, and have equal opportunities to thrive and advance within the organization.

Appellate Advocates’ Re-entry Program assists clients in applying for and obtaining public benefits; understanding and pursuing housing options; obtaining clothing; preparing resumes and pursuing employment; enrolling in educational programs; and locating appropriate referrals to mental health, substance abuse, vocational and other programs. It also acts as the client’s advocate, when needed. Additionally, the program coordinates with family members and other supportive individuals and engages in short-term peer counseling or check-ins for clients who find the transition difficult.

Position Description: Appellate Advocates is seeking a full-time Program Associate for our Re-entry Program, which connects clients being released from prison or jail with the resources and support they need to successfully rejoin their communities. The Appellate Advocates Reentry Program is part of an interdisciplinary team of social workers and client advocates.

Responsibilities:

• Correspond with clients while they are incarcerated and offer re-entry services

• Assess clients' needs and goals (both during and after incarceration)

• Provide clients with support and mentorship during the adjustment to life after incarceration

• Assist clients in applying for public benefits, when eligible

• Advocate for clients in need of public benefits, housing, and other services

• Locate and make appropriate referrals to service providers

• Help clients prepare a resume and provide referrals for transitional employment and job training

• Work collaboratively with Social Worker(s) and clients' attorneys at Appellate Advocates in the provision of services

• Network with various agencies

Necessary Experience:

• Experience providing direct services to marginalized, vulnerable, and/or formerly incarcerated persons

• Knowledge of re-entry challenges faced by formerly incarcerated people, as well as benefits and services available

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with and dedication to working with formerly incarcerated persons, including non-citizens, those suffering from mental illness, and/or those with substance abuse problems

• Experience working with people who are subject to the New York Sex Offender Registration Act

• Strong teamwork skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Fluency in another language a plus

• Formerly incarcerated individuals are strongly encouraged to apply