The Northeast Arc is a premier provider of services that help people with disabilities become full participants in the community; choosing for themselves how to live, learn, work, socialize and play. We were founded in 1954 by courageous and determined parents who wanted to ensure that their children and others with disabilities will always have every opportunity to thrive in the community. Come join one of Massachusetts' most established, innovative, and passionate organizations.

Our Family Resource Center has exciting new opportunities as we collaborate with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to better connect individuals with resources and opportunities within their community! We are looking for full-time Community Resource Specialists to serve the Lowell, Merrimack Valley, North Shore, Metro North, and Central Middlesex area.

Job Summary: The primary objective is to connect individuals with community resources and opportunities for engagement in the cities and towns where they live. Using a person-centered approach, the community resource specialist will support the vision and goals of individuals served by the Area Office. Opportunities for community connection will be recommended along with support to initiate involvement.

Major Responsibilities:

• Review intake details and work directly with referred individuals to connect them to resources in their local cities or towns.
• Use community mapping approaches to develop a comprehensive list of existing resources, activities, organizations.
• Educate people on transportation resources and travel training resources.
• Outreach to organizations to develop relationships and create new opportunities.
• Become a community expert and maintain an event calendars for local cities and towns.
• Provide 1:1 direct navigation as needed to connect people with resources and provide social emotional support as they explore new settings and roles.
• Collaborate with DDS Service coordinators, local Family Service Coordinators navigators/specialists, support staff, and other Northeast Arc Divisions and resources to provide an interdisciplinary approach to planning.
• Communicate clinical concerns to Program Director(s) and DDS service Coordinators as needed.
• Build professional relationships with local colleges and universities, service providers, local park and recreation, Senior Centers, Libraries, town/city government, with a focus on connecting people to resources beyond disability agencies.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Human Services, Psychology or related field preferred.
• Bilingual (Spanish) strongly preferred.
• Experience working in Human Services or Disability field. Personal experience (i.e. helping a loved one navigate services) may also be considered.
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail.
• A commitment to serving families with compassion and excellence.
• Flexibility to adjust and manage multiple priorities. Strong verbal/written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Access) and data base software required.
• Valid drivers license and reliable transportation is required.