Community Supports Specialist

Ascentria Care Alliance Careers • Worcester, MA

13h

About The Position

The Community Supports Specialist provides general programmatic support to programs funded by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), primarily by helping staff effectively implement interventions identified in Individual Service Plans (ISPs). The role supports people with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorder who live independently or with a legal guardian and are navigating related challenges. Primary duties include transportation to medical appointments and help accessing community resources, as well as crisis intervention and skill acquisition.

The Specialist trains, models, and assists with activities of daily living and health maintenance to help individuals gain or maintain independent living skills. The role also provides basic problem-solving information, models appropriate social behavior, supports access to public benefits, advocates for individuals, and assists with moves. Administrative duties include communicating with the Program Manager, completing required paperwork, and providing general office support. The position requires respect for clients’ rights, privacy, and dignity and compliance with contractual regulations.

Requirements

• An associate’s degree, or a high school diploma with at least 2 years of experience in a community-based human services field, is preferred.
• Good oral and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to work with a diverse population.
• Ability to provide crisis intervention calmly and effectively as needed.
• Ability to follow treatment plans, set limits, and manage complex behaviors.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with community-based human service professionals and staff.
• Basic Microsoft Office skills.
• Flexibility to meet program scheduling needs.
• Ability to work within the agency’s mission.
• Valid driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance required to transport clients throughout the community.
• Certify in First Aid and CPR within 90 days of employment.
• Complete Non Violent Crisis Intervention Training and Ascentria Organizational Orientation.
• Maintain mandatory training and certifications as required.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of the DDS ISP process is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide training, modeling, and assistance in activities of daily living and health maintenance to support independent living skills, including meal preparation, nutrition, apartment maintenance, exercise, socialization, medical appointments, and use of public transportation or ADA transportation.
• Provide individuals with basic problem-solving information.
• Model and teach appropriate social behavior.
• Transport and escort individuals to and from appointments as needed.
• Assist individuals in obtaining public benefits, including Social Security, MassHealth, ADA transportation, food stamps, and fuel assistance.
• Assist individuals with moving between locations, including moving furniture or boxes and using personal vehicles to transport clients’ belongings.
• Advocate for individuals in the community, evaluate the effectiveness of advocacy efforts, and make appropriate adjustments.
• Provide regular updates and communicate with the Program Manager.
• Prepare required paperwork and submit it by the deadline.
• Provide general administrative support, which may include answering phones, taking messages, arranging meetings, and taking meeting notes.
• Attend and participate in staff, team, and PQI process meetings.
• Respect clients’ rights, privacy, and dignity and adhere to contractual regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Obtain First Aid and CPR certification within 90 days of employment and complete required crisis intervention, organizational orientation, and ongoing mandatory training.

Benefits

• High-quality, affordable health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees.
• Flexible Spending Account.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match.
• Employee Assistance Program with free and accessible services and supports.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Paid time off that increases with tenure.
• Paid holidays.
• Supportive workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: High school or GED