Community Supports Specialst

Language Bank•Worcester, MA

15h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Community Supports Specialist provides general programmatic support to programs funded by the Department of Developmental Services with a primary goal of supporting staff to effectively implement interventions identified in ISPs. Individuals receiving support are either living independently or at home with a legal guardian and navigating challenges related to a Developmental Disability (ID/DD) and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Primary Duties involve transportation to and from medical appointments and accessing community resources. This position also aids with crisis intervention and skill acquisition.

Requirements

Good oral and written communication skills in English
A demonstrated ability to work with a diverse population of people is essential.
Demonstrated ability to provide crisis intervention in a calm and effective manner as needed.
Ability to follow treatment plans, set limits and manage complex behaviors.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment with community-based human service professionals and staff.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Basic Microsoft Office products skills.
Flexibility to meet schedule needs of program
Ability to work within the Mission of the agency, “we are called to strengthen communities by empowering people to respond to life's challenges.”
Valid Driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance is required to transport clients throughout the community.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree or High School diploma with 2+ years of experience in a Community- Based Human Services field is preferred
Knowledge of the DDS ISP process is strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Provide training, modeling and assistance in Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and health maintenance to enhance skill acquisition to gain or maintain independent living. These may include but are not limited to; meal preparation and nutrition, apartment maintenance, exercise, socialization, medical appointments, and utilizing public transportation/ADA.
Provide individuals with basic problem-solving information. Model and teach appropriate social behavior.
Provide transportation for and escort individuals to and from appointments as needed.
Assist in obtaining public benefits such as but not limited to: Social Security, Mass Health, ADA transportation, food stamps and fuel assistance.
Assist individuals when moving from one location to another. This may include but is not limited to moving furniture and/or boxes and using personal vehicles to transport client personal belongings.
Serve as an advocate for individuals at various community levels, evaluate effectiveness of advocacy efforts and make appropriate adjustments.
Provide regular updates and communication with Program Manager
Prepare the required paperwork and submit by the deadline.
Provide general administrative support which may include answering phones and taking messages, making meeting arrangements and taking meeting notes
Attend and participate in staff, team, and PQI process meetings.
Job must be conducted at all times in a way that respects the rights, privacy and the dignity of the client and adheres to all contractual regulations.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Certify in First Aid and CPR within 90 days of employment.
Non Violent Crisis Intervention Training
Ascentria Organizational Orientation.
Maintain mandatory training and certifications as required.