Client Assistance Program (CAP) Advocate

Disability Law Colorado•Denver, CO

13d•$65,000 - $72,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Disability Justice is a nonprofit civil rights organization that has been fighting for dignity and inclusion for 50 years. As Colorado's Protection and Advocacy system, their team of advocates, attorneys, and investigators aims to make Colorado an ideal place for people with disabilities to live, work, and thrive. The Client Assistance Program (CAP) Advocate will provide advocacy for clients experiencing issues with services from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and Centers for Independent Living (CILs). This role involves gathering client information, educating clients on their rights and options, reviewing case files, and facilitating dispute resolution between clients and DVR/CIL staff. The CAP Advocate will also stay updated on relevant laws and regulations, provide training to DVR and CIL staff, and collaborate with other Disability Justice staff on cases, trainings, and outreach.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
At least 3 years of experience providing direct client services
Ability to obtain suitability credentials from the Social Security Administration within the first six months of employment.
Ability to work independently in a hybrid or remote environment, as well as under general supervision and on a team
Experience entering data correctly and in a timely manner into a database system
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Demonstration of appropriate and professional behavior in working with members of the public who may often be in crisis
Proficiency with office technology, databases, Microsoft Suite applications, email, the Internet, and other relevant applications, such as Zoom
Understanding of and commitment to legal ethics for nonlawyers
Ability to work nonstandard hours and/or travel, as needed

Nice To Haves

Bilingual or multilingual
Three years experience working with and advocating on behalf of individuals with disabilities
Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a relevant field, such as social work, legal studies, or public policy
Personal or professional experience navigating the vocational rehabilitation system
Experience working with ASL interpreters, assistive technology, people whose primary language is not English, and accessibility problem-solving

Responsibilities

Responds promptly to newly assigned clients and manages cases from initial contact through resolution.
Gathers information from clients and investigates complaints of wrongful denial or delay of services by DVR or CILs, including outright/constructive denials, process barriers, and communication breakdowns.
Advocates on behalf of clients, informing them of DVR's and CILs' service obligations and their rights.
Documents casework accurately and communicates case status to the attorney supervisor, requesting guidance as needed.
Maintains subject-matter expertise on laws and regulations governing DVR and CILs, and stays current on rules regarding the unauthorized practice of law.
Develops and maintains up-to-date CAP materials, fact sheets, and resources for clients and the community.
Conducts outreach for CAP and PABSS programs statewide, including transition events (events supporting youth with disabilities as they prepare to move from high school to post-secondary education or employment).
Represents the organization on community committees (e.g., the State Rehabilitation Council).
Monitors case numbers and client feedback to ensure effective use of resources and high-quality service.
Assists with federal reporting requirements related to CAP.
Upholds the values of the disability rights movement and Disability Justice's reputation as a trusted, competent resource.
Performs other duties as assigned, including additional advocacy work directed by the Co-Legal Directors and participation in Disability Justice meetings.