Community Living Advocate

NATURE OF WORK

The Community Living Advocate will be responsible for providing services to consumers with independent living needs. The person in this position will be responsible for developing, implementing, marketing, and coordinating the Community Transition Program.

The Community Transition Program involves assisting individuals with disabilities who are residing in nursing homes and other institutional living settings to transition to their own homes or apartments where they can live with optimal independence and control over their own lives. This position requires the employee to believe in and act in accordance with the mission and philosophy of the Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living (IVCIL).

Additionally, CTP/PAC will:

• Attend team meetings regularly. Participate in team meetings to ensure an overall positive and productive environment of the office.

• participates in public policy and legislative advocacy projects.

• Attend workshops, conferences, trainings, seminars, etc., to enhance job performance and expand the overall knowledge base.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Reports to the Executive Director and/or the Associate Director.

• Develops, implements, markets, and coordinates the Community Transition Program.

• Establishes and maintains working relationships with Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Home Services counselors and staff.

• Works with nursing home residents, nursing home staff, and other referral sources to identify individuals who want to move out.

• After the consumer moves out of the nursing home, they continue to coordinate services on a weekly, bi-weekly, and then monthly basis for 90-days.

• Works with housing providers to develop and expand affordable, accessible housing options for people with disabilities.

• Aids in the development of programs and implements such services as: Advocacy, Independent Living Skills Training, Peer counseling/Support Groups, Disability awareness, and Accessibility Site Survey.

• Maintains an active Community Transition and if needed Independent Living consumer caseload, maintains accurate and up-to-date consumer files, and completes all necessary forms/reports on time.

• Acts as liaison and advocates for and with consumers with agencies to facilitate receipt of benefits and/or services.

• Assists with and supports the Center’s fundraising activities.

• Provide information and referral to consumers and the community at large.

• Document all I&R calls and contacts into CILs First in an accurate and timely manner. Provide follow-up services to all I&R contacts.

Perform other duties as needed and/or assigned. May occasionally be assigned to work throughout our five-county catchment area.

JobSpecifications

• Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, or commensurate experience.

• Understand the independent living philosophy and disability rights movement.

• Direct experience working with people with disabilities.

• Strong interpersonal skills are necessary to communicate effectively and professionally with clients, staff, and coworkers, along with the ability to help contribute positively to a team approach.

• Excellent communication (oral and written) and organizational skills.

• Public relations skills.

• Must have a valid Driver’s license, car insurance and a reliable vehicle.

Revised September 2025

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18