What are the responsibilities and job description for the ABI Independent Life Skills Trainer & Companion position at Favarh Inc?
ABI Independent Life Skills Trainer (ILST)
Location: Simsbury, CT (In-Home & Community-Based Setting)
Employment Type: Part-Time (10 hours)
Schedule: Sun 8a-6p
Hourly Rate: $20.25
ABI Companion
Location: Simsbury, CT (In-Home & Community-Based Setting)
Employment Type: Part-Time (4.5 Hours)
Schedule: Sun 6p-1030p
Hourly Rate: $20.25
About Favarh:
Founded in 1958, Favarh – The Arc of the Farmington Valley is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) live as independently and inclusively as possible. Our work is guided by person-centered planning, dignity, and empowerment, and we offer innovative services that enhance lives and build futures.
Our Mission:
To help each person achieve their personal best.
Our Vision:
A future where each person with an intellectual or developmental disability lives in the community with the support they need to be a contributing citizen, live as independently as possible, and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle.
What We Offer:
Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
Generous Paid Time Off that increases with tenure
Paid Holidays
Medical Insurance with a tiered cost structure based on years of service
Free Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability
403(b) Retirement Plan with employer contributions (up to 12%) based on tenure
Employer-Funded EBHRA Health Reimbursement Plan ($2,150 annually)
Employee Referral Bonus Program
Discounted offsite fitness memberships (Healthtrax and more)
Comprehensive training program
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Internal advancement opportunities
About the Role:
Favarh is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Independent Living Skills Trainer (ILST) to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role is crucial in helping individuals develop essential life skills that foster independence and improve quality of life.
The ILST will design and implement individualized training programs tailored to each person’s strengths and goals. Focus areas may include personal finance, communication, daily living skills, and more. Collaboration with families, therapists, social workers, and other team members is key to delivering person-centered, holistic support.
Support is provided in both home and community settings. The ILST helps individuals build autonomy, self-advocacy, self-sufficiency, and safety awareness, ultimately enabling fuller, more independent lives.
Key Areas of Support:
Housing Assistance: Customized living arrangements based on individual needs
Personal Finance: Budgeting, managing money, and financial literacy
Employment Support: Supported employment, pre-vocational training, and job coaching
Life Skills Training: Meal preparation, hygiene, housekeeping, and other ADLs
Community Involvement: Encouraging participation in arts, music, and media programs
Health & Wellness: Medication management, hygiene, mobility, and medical needs
Communication: Promoting self-advocacy and healthy interpersonal interactions
Advocacy & Support: Brain injury support groups, disability advocacy, and personalized care
Residential Programs: Tailored residential services for diverse support needs
Specialized Staffing: Private pay brain injury services with trained professionals
Transportation: Support with accessing work, appointments, and social activities
Minimum Qualifications:
21 years of age
Valid CT driver's license held for a minimum of 3 years (clean driving record)
Ability to pass background checks and all required screenings
Physical capability to lift 75 lbs., and sit/stand/walk for extended periods
High School Diploma or equivalent
Certification in ABI Independent Life Skills Training (ABI ILST) or related field (ABI = Acquired Brain Injury)
At least 1 year of experience working with individuals of diverse intellectual and physical abilities
Understanding of person-centered planning and independent living principles
Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team
Preferred Qualifications:
Associate or bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Education, or related field
Experience developing training materials and individualized programs
Familiarity with community resources and support systems
Knowledge of electronic documentation systems (e.g., Therap, Relias, Sandata, ADP)
Key Responsibilities:
Conduct assessments to identify strengths, needs, and areas for growth
Develop and implement Individualized Service Plans (ISP) based on client goals
Facilitate both one-on-one and group training sessions
Maintain accurate documentation (T-Logs, ISP data collection, Incident Reports [GER])
Monitor progress and adjust training approaches as needed
Collaborate with individuals, families, and care teams to ensure consistent support
Encourage and celebrate progress and independence
Advocate for the dignity and choices of every participant
Help individuals access and navigate community resources
Promote safety, wellness, and positive behavior in all settings
Expectations:
Maintain respectful and empowering relationships with participants
Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness
Exhibit professionalism, reliability, and a strong work ethic
Engage in ongoing training and development
Remain adaptable to the evolving needs of individuals and the organization
Essential Skills:
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport
Effective organizational skills for planning and documentation
Problem-solving skills to adapt strategies and overcome challenges
Knowledge of community resources to enhance support
A commitment to creating positive and impactful learning experiences
What We Offer:
Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
Generous Paid Time Off that increases with tenure
Paid Holidays
Medical Insurance with a tiered cost structure based on years of service
Free Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability
403(b) Retirement Plan with employer contributions (up to 12%) based on tenure
Employer-Funded EBHRA Health Reimbursement Plan ($2,150 annually)
Employee Referral Bonus Program
Discounted offsite fitness memberships (Healthtrax and more)
Comprehensive training program
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Internal advancement opportunities
Why Work at Favarh?
Join a supportive, mission-driven organization where your work makes a difference
Access ongoing mentorship, training, and opportunities for career advancement
Be part of a culture centered on inclusion, respect, and individual growth
Receive a comprehensive benefits package
Enjoy flexible scheduling and competitive pay
Favarh is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
To learn more about Favarh and current opportunities, visit our website www.Favarh.org/careers.