Job Information
Center For Independence Independent Living Specialist Glenwood Springs Region in Glenwood Springs, Colorado
GENERAL PURPOSE: The Independent Living Coordinator position will be responsible for case management of co-occurring needs such as housing applications and placement, coordinating access to medical/mental health treatment, risk mitigation, access to community resources, and helping individuals develop personal goals. In a small office, these tasks are shared with the Regional Supervisor.
All staff act as an ambassador to the community about programs and services. This individual will use workshops, presentations, and other opportunities to reach consumers in the un-served or underserved areas of outlying counties, institutionalized individuals, other human and social service organizations, governmental agencies, and philanthropy organizations
ESSENTIAL DUTIES: Duties essential to the position include, but are not limited to:
Performs consumer intake, eligibility determination, and information and referral, for people with all types of disabilities of all ages; use successful interview techniques to assist consumers in determining needs, developing appropriate IL goals, and a plan to achieve those goals. Perform follow-up activity to determine satisfactory services delivery and progress of steps once plans have been established. Build rapport with clients and provide exceptional service through listening, encouragement, peer support and self-advocacy; offers and/or arrangements for independent living skills training, conducts individual and systems change advocacy. Possible classes including, but not limited to, training in such areas as activities of daily living, mobility, access to public benefits, household budget management, disability rights and social skills. Develop community connections with other human service agencies to facility and coordinate activities on behalf of individual consumers. Understand the Independent Living Philosophy as demonstrated under the 5 core services: Information and referral, Independent Living Skills training, Advocacy, Peer Mentoring, Education and training, and Youth and Nursing home transitions. Personally assist clients in acquiring funding through identified sources for technology, durable medical devices, home modification, and medical procedures as appropriate. Offers assistance and coordinates efforts to modify housing for accessibility. Assist with housing applications for Section 8 HUD services or veteran housing supports. Provide appropriate documentation as outlined by records data system and keeps accurate and timely records; analyze and report data concerning the outcome of individual services, community options development, and systems change advocacy. Attend Staff meetings, Human Service meetings and other trainings/ workshops/events; support system change activities as required Maintain strict confidentiality of all information concerning consumers, staff, volunteers and board members Work will be evaluated by performance goals related to community contacts, outreach projects, information and referral contacts, consumer supports, and interagency relationships. These goals will be evaluated periodically, based on changing conditions and consumer demographics. Monthly reports will be part of the on-going evaluation. Identify and assist with fundraising and grant writing activities as needed. Perform other IL Services and/or related duties as required/requested
QUALIFICATIONS / ABILITIES: General qualifications and abilities for this position include, but are not limited to:
Minimum Bachelor's Degree in a related field preferred - and /or five years' directly related work experience, and/or personal experience with disability [preferred]. Master's Degree preferred.
People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Ability to take initiative and work with minimal supervision. Sound office practices, demonstrable ability to problem solve issues related to social services systems.
Excellent interperson l skills and a demonstrated ability to relate well to a broad spectrum of people including people with disabilities.
Excellent communication skills (verbal and written). Spanish fluency would be considered an enhanced benefit.
Good experience/skills with basic Microsoft computer programs, i.e., Word, Excel, Outlook; and using the Internet. Better that average knowledge of technology hardware and software desired.
Knowledge of and experience with keeping computer records, i.e., data collection and entry, analysis, interpretation and reporting.
Knowledge of and commitment to the Independent Living Philosophy and concepts is preferred.
21 years of age, or older, and possess valid Colorado Drivers License and a clean driving record.
Must clear a Colorado State criminal history back-ground check for all offenses including any felony convictions for child/adult abuse.
Some knowledge of Garfield County and/or the Roaring Fork Valley, and the willingness to learn the knowledge of the other counties in our region, related to disabilities.
Can work with a variety of disability conditions, socio-ethnic backgrounds, and ages.