Advocacy Services Representative

We are seeking a passionate and motivated Advocacy Services Representative to help individuals with disabilities access services, understand their rights, and effectively address concerns with service providers. This position also participates in monitoring, investigations, outreach, and education efforts that advance DRSD's mission.

Advocacy Service Representatives may support multiple grant-funded programs, as determined by the Executive Director.

Position Summary

The Advocacy Services Representative provides direct advocacy services to individuals with disabilities, conducts investigations and facility monitoring activities, supports outreach and education initiatives, and assists with administrative and reporting functions. This position works closely with staff attorneys, clients, service providers, community partners, and other stakeholders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Advocacy Services (50-75%)

• Represent clients in advocacy matters.
• Maintain an active caseload and complete case documentation and narratives.
• Collaborate with staff attorneys and other team members.
• Meet with clients and prospective clients to provide information and referral services.
• Complete intake duties as assigned.
• Investigate complaints, grievances, and allegations.
• Negotiate and mediate concerns between clients and service providers.
• Conduct interviews and observations of service providers.
• Educate clients regarding their rights and available resources.
• Complete required reporting and data entry within the case management system.
• Participate in facility monitoring and investigation activities.

Administrative Responsibilities (10-30%)

• Draft articles for newsletters, websites, and other publications.
• Research issues and provide advocacy support to staff.
• Maintain accurate records and data in the case management system.
• Provide updates to internal and external partners.
• Track and document work activities for grant and program reporting purposes.

Training and Outreach (10-15%)

• Conduct community outreach and educational presentations.
• Develop training materials and deliver presentations related to disability rights.
• Draft articles for the South Dakota Report.
• Participate in disability-related professional development opportunities.
• Promote disability awareness and inclusion throughout South Dakota.

Additional Duties (5%)

• Serve on internal and external committees as assigned.
• Assist with special projects and agency initiatives.
• Attend meetings, conferences, and training events.
• Perform duties in accordance with confidentiality, ethics, and safety requirements.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Program Lead Responsibilities (if assigned)

Some Advocacy Representatives may be designated as Program Leads and will:

• Assist with development, implementation, and evaluation of program goals and objectives.
• Monitor grant expenditures and fiscal responsibilities.
• Coordinate and assist with preparation of required grant reports.
• Ensure compliance with grant requirements and program expectations.
• Maintain relationships with grant officers and funding agencies.
• Coordinate services with community partners and stakeholders.
• Review and update program-specific materials and resources.
• Conduct quality assurance reviews.
• Identify program needs and communicate them to leadership.
• Integrate program activities with agency-wide initiatives.

Qualifications

Required

• Associate degree and three to five years of relevant experience; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred

• Experience in a legal environment or paralegal training.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Experience using Microsoft Office products.
• Experience with case management databases or information systems.
• Experience working in a nonprofit organization.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge

• Office practices and procedures.
• Services and resources available to individuals with disabilities in South Dakota.
• Computer systems and information management practices.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Effective organization and time management abilities.
• Ability to research and comprehend technical information.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and database systems.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

Abilities

• Work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Apply laws, regulations, policies, and procedures under attorney supervision.
• Conduct, compile, and evaluate research.
• Build positive relationships with clients, partners, and community organizations.

Physical Requirements

This position may require:

• Prolonged computer work.
• Occasional lifting, moving, pushing, or pulling items weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Occasional travel, movement, and transportation of materials.
• Frequent sitting, standing, and communication with clients and stakeholders.

Why Join Disability Rights South Dakota?

At DRSD, you'll make a meaningful impact by protecting rights, promoting inclusion, and helping individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence and access to services throughout South Dakota.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Disability Rights South Dakota is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Pay: $43,000.00 - $48,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person

Salary : $43,000 - $48,000