Community Outreach Specialist | $21.00 - $23.63 / hour

The Community Outreach Specialist provides community outreach to underserved populations in order to increase awareness and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other I/DD diagnoses and available resources. This position will provide information to families and community organizations regarding Easterseals Midwest's services and community resources.

Essential Functions:

• Researches community organizations and local system points of entry to build an effective community outreach network, this includes community groups, associations, agencies and other local resources.
• Establishes relationships and provides professional communications with external community organizations and resources.
• Coordinates and delivers presentations to potential referral sources, community caregivers, and system points of entry. Provides information to agencies regarding autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Works with community sources to identify families that would benefit from services.
• Provides resources, educational materials and support to families. Offers clear guidance on community resources and how to obtain additional information and assistance. Links families with support groups and other community resources as needed.
• Ensures timely and accurate documentation of outreach efforts and outcomes, including all necessary grant-specific data. Creates, tracks and analyzes outreach efforts.
• Attends departmental meetings and trainings as required.

Position Competencies:

• Knowledge of and experience with persons with autism spectrum disorders and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Knowledge of local system points of entry and resources to build community outreach efforts.
• Able to communicate effectively with diverse groups of people in a variety of settings. Able to foster positive professional relationships with families, staff and community members.
• Able to work independently to achieve goals.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products including Excel to track and analyze data related to outreach efforts.

Qualifications:

• Must have high school diploma or equivalent.
• Family member of an individual with autism or I/DD and at least 5 years of lived in experience is preferred.

Additional Requirements:

• This position primarily works weekday daytime hours; however evening and weekend hours may be required for visiting community sites.
• This position frequently travels throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area.
• Must have current driver's license and proof of insurance.
• Must complete and maintain all required trainings/certifications.
• Must maintain confidential information in accordance with HIPAA regulations.