Guardianship Representative - Hybrid Estate, Personal Affairs & Advocacy

State of Illinois•Rockford, IL

1d•$5,834 - $8,307•Hybrid

About The Position

In this role, the guardianship representative from the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, Office of State Guardian, plays a vital role in managing a caseload of court-referred wards, including developmentally disabled, mentally ill, and aged adults. This position involves conducting quarterly assessments to identify the care needs of each ward and developing tailored solutions to support their well-being. The representative prepares and submits public benefits applications, maintains accurate case records, and documents all case management activities. Additionally, the representative is responsible for preparing court documents and reports, as well as appearing in circuit court to testify on behalf of the Commission during probate or mental health proceedings, ensuring that the interests and rights of the wards are effectively represented and upheld. The representative makes decisions for assigned hybrid cases relating to the monetary affairs of OSG’s wards including marshalling of assets, preparation of estate related court documents, visits banks and other financial institutions as necessary.

Requirements

Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to the completion of four (4) years of college with coursework in related social science field.
Requires two (2) years professional experience in a social services area.
Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.
Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate.
Must successfully complete the National Guardianship Foundation Course and exam and receive certification within 12 months of employment.
Requires ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools, ideologies, or other industry related topics relevant to the job duties.

Nice To Haves

Prefers two (2) years of direct experience working with a disability population in a professional, volunteer, and/or personal capacity.
Prefers a 4-year college degree in social work, social services, human services, or a related field.
Prefers one (1) year of experience in performing fieldwork.
Prefers one (1) year of experience with applying for and/or managing public benefits for persons with disabilities in a professional, volunteer, and/or personal capacity.
Prefers one (1) year of experience with advocacy work.
Prefers intermediate knowledge of computers including use of Microsoft Office Suite and database programs for ease and ability to take case notes and other relevant communications via computer.
Prefers elementary knowledge of federal and state laws and procedures relating to persons with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Serves as a representative from the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, Office of State Guardian.
Makes decisions for assigned hybrid cases relating to the monetary affairs of OSG’s wards including marshalling of assets, preparation of estate related court documents, visits banks and other financial institutions as necessary.
Visits, assesses, and counsels wards at scheduled intervals (at least quarterly) and travels to conduct visits.
Assists with the preparation of public benefits applications for wards.
Makes decisions on behalf of the ward with life decisions including healthcare, programming, and residential placement decisions.
Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.