PURPOSE OF POSITION: IRTC (Iowa Return to Community) / EAPA (Elder Abuse Prevention Awareness) Counselors provide interactive person-directed support that assists the consumer to make informed choices about community services; in the community of their choice after a stay in a hospital, skilled rehab or nursing facility setting (IRTC) or in order to make informed decisions in the area of adult protection and awareness, as well as community awareness (EAPA). Support will be provided based upon the consumer’s preferences, strengths, and values.

RESPONSIBILITIES/ACTIVITIES:

1. Explain the role of IRTC/EAPA Options Counselor/Case Manager to consumer and support persons to set clear expectations and to emphasize to all participants the role of the consumer as decision maker and empower older adults to advocate on their own behalf.

2. Utilize person-directed approach with the consumer, to engage, and discuss their goals. Arrange and conduct one-on-one meetings, e-mail, and public education sessions to gather information from consumer about their wants, preferences, goals and to link consumers with available support and services in their community.

3. Searches through database, written, and computer-based information resources to provide individuals seeking information with several options and relevant materials over the phone, through mail or e-mail depending on the preference of the individual being served, and advocates on behalf of individual to ensure access to needed programs and services.

4. Maintains accurate and complete individual records and documentation within database; maintains confidentiality per HIPPA requirements.

5. Follows Milestones Area Agency on Aging’s follow-up policy and procedures to ensure individual has connected with needed services.

6. Supply outreach contacts to Social Services Director, monthly, for reports to IA Department on Aging.

7. Answer general questions related to the other Milestones programs as appropriate, facilitate referrals to those programs and contribute to the overall agency team effort.

8. Participate in Iowa Return to Community and Elder Abuse trainings or events.

9. Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS, SKILLS AND/OR ABILITIES FOR POSITION:

1. BA/BS with preferred Human Services focus and 2 years work experience in a human service-related field - OR - associate degree and 2 years of experience working in the human service field.

2. Knowledge of community resources (public and private): what they are, how to access, eligibility criteria, and how to seek out additional resources (databases, websites, networking)

3. Offer one-on-one meetings, electronic communication, and public education sessions to link consumers with available supports and services in their community, share information about aging issues.

4. Assess client’s limitations and capacities to determine which agency and community resources, services, supports and/or education will best meet client’s expressed needs. Facilitate family meetings and empower the participants to take part in their planning.

5. In-Home visits to clients are required, and frequently include visits with those experiencing difficult living conditions in socio-economically challenged areas.

6. Work with agency staff to assist individuals in securing benefits through programs including Medicare, Medicaid, SSI, Food Stamps, rent reimbursement, property tax deferment, etc.

7. Network, collaborate and be a resource for family caregiver specialists, physicians, law enforcement, county attorneys, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), domestic violence agencies, long-term living facilities, community service providers (public and private), CPC’s (Central Points of Coordination) and other agency program staff.

8. Increase public awareness of adult abuse and resources via public speaking engagements/expos/trainings and assist IDA with prevention efforts, data collection and the dissemination of local public information.

9. Promote individual advocacy to secure rights or benefits with providers while empowering older adults to advocate on their own behalf.

10. Complete the intake/assessment/intervention plan in accordance with 17 IAC Chapter 15 and agency policies and procedures. Collect and record data on consultations and information and assistance, as well as other outcome measures as required.

11. Must be able to become certified as an Alliance of Information and Referral Specialists (AIRS) and Adult Mandatory Reporter within 6 months of employment.

12. Must have valid driver’s license, auto insurance, access to reliable transportation, and ability to travel as required.

SCHEDULE: Full-Time: Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 4:30pm

SALARY: Range: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour, DOE

BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Plan, Hospital Plan, Pet Insurance, Company Paid Life Insurance, IPERS Retirement, Vacation and Sick Time, 1 Personal Day and 12 Paid Holidays Annually

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Medical specialties:

• Geriatrics

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• No nights
• No weekends

Work setting:

• In-person
• Office

Ability to Commute:

• Ottumwa, IA (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Ottumwa, IA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person