363 families became homeless from Brownsville in 2004. Common Ground is committed to substantially reducing the occurrence of family homelessness in this neighborhood by 2009, but starting immediately. Current efforts include: (1) a “Single Stop” center funded by the Robin Hood Foundation that coordinates services for 300 local residents a year, including financial assistance, legal aid, and the capacity to provide shallow rental subsidies, (2) a Real Estate Services Unit that provides technical assistance to local landlords and facilitates the renovation of residential properties that are currently offline to make 100 more affordable units available to local families who would otherwise become homeless, and (3) the development of 300 additional units of affordable family housing in the community.

Although the immediate focus of Common Ground’s work in Brownsville is homelessness prevention and housing development, these ambitious goals are difficult to achieve if they are not part of a broader, more comprehensive plan. Factors such as social isolation, domestic violence, a history of incarceration or foster care, and the lack of education or economic opportunity, increase the risk of a family becoming homeless. These factors are significantly present in Brownsville and our efforts will be tailored accordingly to targeted areas within the community.

The director, in conjunction with CG leadership team and key partners from government, academia, and the community, must implement a change strategy to achieve a substantial reduction in family homelessness by 2009. He/she will oversee and coordinate our existing programs, develop new programs as needed, serve as a bridge between Common Ground and key stakeholders in the community, and tie in the work of leading academics and city agencies. Experience with program management, community organizing, and working with very low income and homeless families desired. Director will meet regularly with senior staff of Common Ground to ensure program is well integrated with all appropriate aspects of the organization’s work. Salary based on experience. This is an exciting opportunity for a change agent interested in being part of a new and growing initiative. Willingness to take on a variety of diverse roles and flexibility are essential.

Job Qualifications:

• Masters degree preferred – Urban Planning, Community Development, Community Organizing or similar field; Candidates with related Master’s degree and/or extensive experience will be considered
• Community organizing and program management experience, especially those involving the start up of new programs
• Demonstrated capacity in building cross-agency partnerships and network relationships with government agencies
• Flexibility and demonstrable problem solving skills; strong intellectual curiosity
• Bilingual Spanish a plus
• Knowledge of Central Brooklyn community resources
• Experience working with low-income families
• Excellent communication skills
• Exceptional analytical thinking skills and emotional intelligence
• Ability to lead a team

Title:

Director of Brownsville Initiative

Location:

Brownsville, Brooklyn

The selected candidate must also successfully complete a criminal and financial background investigation.

COMMON GROUND COMMUNITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER