Community Programs Independent Living Specialist FT

Job Description

Job DescriptionSalary: $22-$24 per hour, DOE

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Community Programs ILS

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt Full-Time

REPORTS TO: Community Programs Manager

HOURS: 40 Hours per week

SALARY: $22.00-$24.00 per hr.

JOB SUMMARY

The Community Programs Independent Living Specialist (ILS) reports to the Community Programs Manager and is responsible for assisting persons with disabilities to access appropriate services; develop contacts with community organizations and service providers; providing services to members in the community within assigned service area; and other duties as needed.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide direct services to members with disabilities including, but not limited to, Assistive Technology (AT), Benefits Assistance, Independent Living Skills (ILS) Emergency Assistance Program (EAP) and Home Access Program (HAP) services and the development of Independent Living Plans.
• Conduct outreach activities for businesses, community agencies, disability groups, and the public.
• Conduct workshops and facilitate member groups as needed.
• Participate in community advocacy and educational activities and facilitate member involvement in Center activities.
• Act as liaison/consultant to individual members, member groups, other service providers, public benefits agencies, and with other DCRC staff.
• Develop and maintain community involvement within the cities of West Hollywood, Santa Monica and/or Redondo Beach.
• Maintain member files and progress notes.
• Communicate status of work with Program Manager on a regular basis.
• Complete all prescribed member file documentation and case notes.
• Participate in outreach and advocacy activities including external presentations.
• Assist Program Manager as needed.
• Conduct program participant surveys and monitor activities.
• Other duties as assigned.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the Independent Living movement, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and other related laws and regulations governing programs offered by DCRC.
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and sensitivity engaging with diverse disability groups including but not limited to: Deaf/Hard of Hearing; Mental Health; Cognitive and Developmental Disabilities; Blind/Low-vision; Physical Disabilities; and Learning Disabilities.
• Interact with co-workers regarding independent living issues and provide coverage when co-workers are absent.
• Convey the independent living philosophy and principles of member control, equal access, and equal opportunity throughout delivery of services.
• Demonstrate commitment to DCRC and to the vision, mission, and management philosophy of the agency.
• Protect the health, safety and confidentiality of members (and co-workers) in all facets of the job.
• Adhere to agency policies and procedures particularly those dealing with confidentiality in all aspects of agency operations.
• Participate in developing and sustaining a healthy organizational culture based on safety, mutual regard, and open communication.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records; documenting, in particular, service(s) to members.
• Advocate for the rights of members and the enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Complete all other duties as assigned in a responsible, professional and timely manner.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability desired. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• At least 2-years prior experience in a similar position.
• Possess interpersonal skills needed to interact effectively and diplomatically with a variety of staff, interns, community partners, funders, and members of the
• Basic supportive counseling and crisis intervention skills preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively (oral / written).
• Knowledge of basic computer applications.
• Organizational skills, ability to work both independently with minimal supervision, and as a team member.
• Valid California Drivers License, proof of insurance, or the ability to effectively arrange personal transportation locally and regionally.
• Life experience with a disability as well as knowledge of the Independent Living Movement philosophy preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is performed primarily in the main office as well as office space in both the cities of Santa Monica and West Hollywood.
• Community outreach requires some degree of local and regional travel, and the occasional outdoor event.
• Office environment includes moderate levels of noise and interruption.
• Stress level is moderate: expected to think clearly in emergencies, complete work with deadlines, deal with interpersonal conflicts, and work with frequent interruptions.

AAP/EEO STATEMENT:

The Disability Community Resource Center is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. People with disabilities, females, minorities and elderly persons are encouraged to apply for employment.

DISCLAIMER:

This job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other activities, duties and/or responsibilities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.