Independent Living (IL) Advocate

Job Overview
The Independent Living (IL) Advocate assists persons with disabilities to achieve goals they have set in an effort decrease dependence on others. The IL Advocate advocates for the collective needs of persons with disabilities and adheres to the Independent Living Philosophy.

Responsibilities

· Provide one-to-one or group training in daily living skills. These include such things as bus or other transportation training, cooking, budgeting, preparing for the written portion of the Mo. Driver’s License test, using low-technology adaptive devices and other skills;

· Provide the Core Services of Independent Living;

· Advocate for the collective needs of people with disabilities;

· Monitor activities in the community for potential discrimination and address as needed;

· Assist consumers in filing discrimination, accessibility, and other types of complaints;

· Write letters make calls or deliver testimony concerning proposed legislation which affects people with disabilities;

· Document services provided according to policies and procedures;

· Maintain clear, concise and accurate records in Center database;

· Understand various benefit systems such as Vocational Rehabilitation, Medicare, Division of Family Services, Social Security and others and be able to assist consumers in navigating these systems;

· Assist individuals to move out of nursing homes or other segregated, institutional settings;

· Attend staff meetings and participate in training opportunities;

· Participate in IL program planning and development;

· Make home visits to consumers, as necessary;

· Ensure fluency in each of the IL Programs and Services and be able to assist consumers in any of the services as needed;

· Assist with the development of training tools to assist consumers with learning about the IL History and Philosophy and promoting said philosophy;

· Travel to conferences or workshops, both in and out of state;

· Work occasional evenings or weekend days for special activities or events;

· Work as a team player with other CIL staff;

· Understand and adhere to the Independent Living Philosophy.

Experience (Preferred)
· Associate’s degree in social work, psychology, or other field related to Independent Living

· Experience in a counseling, training or related position within a human service or benefits setting

· Personal experience with disability

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.50 - $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• AD&D insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• No weekends

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $18