Independent Living Mentor/Student Transporter

Description

SUMMARY:

The Arc Jacksonville is looking for Independent Living Mentors (ILM) for the On-Campus Transition (OCT) Program at the University of North Florida. OCT serves students ages 18-26 with intellectual differences and allows them the opportunity to enjoy the college experience. Our Independent Living Mentors will be required to live with our current students in their campus housing (Frassati Newman Hall) and provide support during their assigned shifts (which include weeknights and weekends). This job is approximately 20-25 hours a week (and a rotating weekend per month) and the compensation includes $400/biweekly, and living accommodations. OCT ILM’s are required to have a valid driver’s license, as they will transport students to a variety of events and activities, as well as to and from campus.

ILM’s are a crucial part to the OCT experience, as they not only reside with our students, but serve as mentors for students, helping them with daily tasks and community integration.

The Arc Jacksonville serves and advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental differences to achieve their full potential and to participate in community life.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

· ILMs will be asked to obtain information about on-campus inclusive activities and network with UNF staff/organization/clubs to find activities for OCT students. ILMs are asked to escort and join OCT students in such activities and other community activities. ILMs provide OCT students with one-on-one guidance and leadership and will be responsible for OCT students during designated work hours.

· ILMs will assist in providing OCT students with independent living skills and time management training, which would most likely include the following activities: ensuring the use of proper hygiene and completion of cleaning responsibilities, assisting students with budgeting and money-handling skills, reminding students to adhere to their day program schedules, work schedules, and recreational schedules etc.

· ILMs will be asked to act as social mentors, which would involve ILMs accompanying students for evening meals and recreational/leisure activities. ILMs will be expected to identify and implement opportunities for OCT students to increase their interaction with the campus and/or general community.

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS:

· Required - must 21 years of age

· Preferred – student at UNF, FSCJ, JU, University of St. Augustine, Flagler College, or any local institution, recent college graduates will also be given preference.

· Valid driver’s license

· Be a good listener and provide peer counseling to the students. Be aware of students’ attitudes, values, activities, and standards of behavior.

· Provide conflict resolution interventions when appropriate.

· Demonstrate disability sensitivity and awareness skills, advocate for the inclusion and integration of OCT students to the UNF and the Frassati Newman Hall community and treat all OCT students with dignity and respect.

· ILMs will be expected to complete all required documentation on students’ progress.

· Serve as a role model to students; set a positive example by own actions both on and off campus and assist in the development of OCT students’ personal growth.

· Training and support in activities of daily living (including but not limited to): hygiene, health management, cleaning/sanitation, grocery shopping, meal preparation, financial management, safety procedures and emergency responses, transportation training, and time management.

· Socialization Training (including but not limited to): increase of effective socialization skills within diverse environments and populations, promotion of socialization with other college students and apartment residents, social and roommate etiquette training, training in teamwork and group dynamics, and promotion of responsible and adaptive social behavior.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

High school diploma.

Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is desired.

Good communication and writing skills required.

Must have valid Florida driver’s license and capable and willing to drive agency vehicles.

Salary : $400