The Center for Independence is a community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operated by people with disabilities, serving people with disabilities. We provide resources to help individuals with disabilities access and participate fully in the community through outreach, advocacy, and skills development. We also provide support to senior citizens with age-related disabilities. We are seeking a compassionate and driven Peer Support / Independent Living (IL) Specialist to join our mission. In this role, you won't just be providing services, you'll be a mentor, an advocate, and a catalyst for change.

Benefits & Schedule Employment Type:

Part-time (Up to 30 hours)

Hours:

30 hours per week; schedule may vary based on department needs

Work Location:

Community-based & CFI Offices Pay:

_______

Benefits:

Eligible employees may receive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays Highlighted Responsibilities As a Peer Support Specialist, you are the heart of our "Nothing About Us Without Us" philosophy. Whether facilitating a support group or working one-on-one, your work directly supports the independence and dignity of the individuals we serve. Provide one-on-one peer support and mentoring to individuals with disabilities, using shared lived experience to build trust, confidence, and self-advocacy. Facilitate or co-facilitate peer support groups and related activities that foster connection, community, and independent living skills. Provide Independent Living skills training to help participants develop the abilities needed to live more independently. Provide individual advocacy and information and referral services, connecting participants with community resources and benefits. Support participants in setting and working toward their own independent living goals, honoring consumer choice and self-determination. Maintain accurate participant documentation and service records in accordance with program and funding requirements. Conduct outreach to individuals with disabilities and community partners to increase awareness of peer support and IL services. Build and maintain relationships with community agencies to support referrals and participant access to services. Participate in team meetings, training, and community events representing the organization and the Independent Living philosophy. Perform additional administrative or program-related tasks as assigned. What We Are Looking For (Requirements) High school diploma or equivalent; an associate or bachelor's degree in a human services field or an equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred. 2+ years of experience working with individuals with disabilities or in human services. Experience providing peer support, mentoring, advocacy, or related services, or a willingness to be trained. Demonstrated understanding of the Independent Living philosophy and disability rights principles. Strong interpersonal and active listening skills, with the ability to work respectfully with people across a wide range of disabilities and backgrounds. Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries and handle sensitive information with confidentiality. Ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and learn client data management systems. Ability to travel locally as needed, up to 100 miles. Our Wish List (Preferred Qualifications) Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Education, Human Services, Public Administration, or a related field. Certified Peer Specialist or Certified Peer Counselor credential, or willingness to obtain certification. Experience facilitating support groups or peer-led programming. Experience working in an Independent Living Center or disability-led organization. Knowledge of ADA and disability-related systems and resources. Bilingual or multilingual ability.

Pay:

From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Location:

Lakewood, WA 98499 (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person