Independent Living Specialist

Independent Living Specialist 3.8 3.8 out of 5 stars 1450 West Cambridge Street, Springfield, MO 65807 From $19 an hour - Full-time empower: abilities 4 reviews From $19 an hour - Full-time empower:abilities is a center for Independent Living (CIL) a consumer controlled, community based organization serving individuals with disabilities. This position is rooted in the Independent Living philosophy of consumer choice, self direction, peer support, advocacy and skill development. This role does not provide direct personal care, residential services, supervision or medical care. Instead, the independent living specialist partners with consumers to build skills, remove barriers, increase independence and support individuals in directing their own goals and services. The Independent Living Specialist (ILS) plays a vital role in supporting individuals with disabilities in achieving their goals for increased independence while championing principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. As an ILS, you will provide comprehensive case management services, empower individuals through skills training, benefits navigation, and offer valuable information and referral services. Additionally, you will serve as a passionate advocate for the diverse needs of people with disabilities and diligently document services provided. 1.

Case Management:

Collaborate with individuals with disabilities to identify life goals and develop independent living plans; offering one-on-one support in mastering daily living skills. Actively work alongside them to achieve their individual goals and provide advocacy in areas where it's needed most. 2.

Advocacy:

Be a steadfast advocate for the collective needs of individuals with disabilities. Monitor community activities to ensure equity and non-discrimination. Assist consumers in filing discrimination complaints, and take proactive measures in person or through writing, making calls, or testifying on behalf of legislation aimed at improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. 3.

Documentation:

Uphold our commitment to accountability by meticulously documenting services provided in accordance with our policies and procedures. 4.

Educational Outreach:

Deliver engaging outreach presentations on the services offered and the critical issues surrounding disability. Provide technical assistance presentations as requested by the Program Director to ensure wider community understanding and inclusion. 5.

Continual Learning:

Attend staff meetings and actively participate in training opportunities to stay informed about evolving DEI practices and best-in-class service delivery methods. 6.

Program Enhancement:

Contribute to program planning efforts and act as a program consultant for task forces and board committees, ensuring that consumer needs are integrated into all aspects of our work. 7.

Home Visits:

Conduct home visits for consumers who are unable to visit the empower: abilities office location. These visits may involve limited travel in a multi-county area. Reliable transportation is essential.

SKILLS REQUIREMENTS

Team player. Ability and desire to work with a diverse group of individuals and talents to complete projects. Ability to organize and plan multitude of tasks, projects and information. Must be able to stay focused and follow-up on assigned responsibilities independent of direct supervision. Excellent communication skills including both written and verbal. Must be flexible, resourceful, and have strong initiative. Ability to set priorities and meet deadlines. Must possess accurate record-keeping skills. Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills with the ability to manage difficult situations. Must be able to effectively listen and perform in-depth interviews with consumers Effective public speaking skills. Computer programs such as Microsoft Office. Creative thinking. Flexibility in dealing with job functions and schedules.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF POSITION

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Sitting for prolonged periods of time, standing and walking on hard surfaces for short periods of time. Traveling to meetings or clients homes Hearing and speaking ability to receive and provide verbal information, in person, on the telephone or via virtual meeting platforms. Vision sufficient to drive a vehicle, read, prepare, and proofread documents, read and enter information electronically, perform assigned duties. Requires frequent viewing of computer monitors, documents or printed information. Reaching, grasping and manipulating objects such as writing utensils, office items, paperwork and operating keyboards. Lifting and carrying light objects up to 5 pounds frequently and up to 20 pounds occasionally. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF POSITION

Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, education or other field related to independent living•May be waived for appropriate experience

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Flexible schedule Health insurance Life insurance Mileage reimbursement Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance Ability to

Commute:

Springfield, MO 65807 (Required)

Work Location:

In person