Footsteps Family Project Consultant Consulting Position Description

Footsteps seeks a Family Project Consultant to engage in a short-term project to support those dealing with issues of separation, divorce or custody amidst a transition away from ultra-Orthodoxy. The consultant will build on previous work the organization took on in developing the Footsteps Family Supports Handbook: http://footstepsorg.org/familyhandbook.php. Project deliverables include: Case coordination and documentation of current and pending family law cases facing Footsteps members. Compiling a user-friendly in-depth report that articulates resources available to individuals seeking affordable legal support for family and matrimonial matters. The report should cover resources in New York City and Rockland and Orange Counties. Generating a brief to educate lawyers and forensic psychologists about the special circumstances of this population. Assisting Footsteps in exploring an organizational partnership and external collaborations to better serve our members in this area. Writing a summary report including recommended next steps for the Footsteps Family Supports Project. Qualifications & Competencies: Intimate knowledge of the challenges that parents face when leaving ultra-Orthodoxy. Strong knowledge of the New York social service arena, specifically the legal services arena. Listens well, able to analyze issues and propose solutions. Excellent interpersonal skills, comfort networking and presenting work to others. Non-judgmental character and able to set aside personal beliefs in service to member needs. Systems-oriented with demonstrated resourcefulness, optimism, and flexibility in approach to work. Keen ability to manage project workflow; juggle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. Takes initiative, comfort offering suggestions as well as asking for feedback and guidance. Project Timeline: October 28, 2013-January 30, 2014 (aprox 10 hrs/week) Consulting Project Fee: $5,000 To apply: submit a cover letter and resume to opportunities@footstepsorg.org with Family Project Consultant and your name in the subject line no later than Friday, October 18, 2013. About Footsteps Every year, hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men and women attempt to explore the world beyond their insular communities. These courageous individuals struggle to redefine their lives despite punitive reactions from family and friends, little if any secular education, a lack of experience with modern gender roles, and, in some cases, a limited command of English. Footsteps is the only organization in North America assisting people on this journey. Based in New York and having served over 800 members to date, Footsteps provides a range of services, including social and emotional support, educational and vocational guidance, workshops and social activities, and access to resources. Thanks to Footsteps, former ultra-Orthodox Jews have a safe, supportive, and flourishing community to turn to as they work to define their own identities, build new connections, and lead productive lives on their own terms. Further background on this issue: Making Families a Priority, By Leah Vincent Unpious.Com, April 25, 2013 In Death of Ex-Hasid Estranged From Her Religious Children, a Mirror for Trauma of Many, By Shulem Deen Tablet Magazine, October 2, 2013