Community Participation Professional

The Community Participation Professional will be responsible for supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to engage in meaningful, inclusive, and enriching community activities. This role involves planning, coordinating, and facilitating opportunities for individuals to participate in a variety of social, recreational, educational, and vocational experiences that enhance independence, self-determination, and integration into the community.

This position is classified as a Safety-Sensitive Function under applicable federal and state laws, including U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations (49 CFR Part 40 and 49 CFR Part 382, as applicable). As such, the individual in this role is subject to drug and alcohol testing requirements, including but not limited to:

• Pre-employment drug testing
• Random drug and alcohol testing
• Reasonable suspicion testing
• Post-accident testing
• Return-to-duty and follow-up testing (if applicable)

The use of marijuana (including medical marijuana), even if legal under state law, is prohibited under federal DOT regulations for individuals performing safety-sensitive functions. All applicants must be able to comply with federal and state laws governing drug and alcohol use and testing.

Qualifications:

• Associate degree in Human Services field
• Knowledge of IDD and strategies to support community inclusion
• Or high school diploma/GED with one year of experience in human services
• Current PA driver’s license with clean driving record
• Pass pre-employment physical and PA State Police Background Check
• Pass a Lighthouse Vocational Services driver's test
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work well with individuals, families, and teams
• Crisis management skills and the ability to maintain composure in challenging situations
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Knowledge of local community resources and services
• Basic computer skills for daily documentation/email
• Complete CPS training within 60 days of hire

Tasks and Responsibilities:

· Work with individuals with IDD to create personalized community participation plans, based on their interests, goals, and abilities.

· Lead or support participation in recreational, social, educational, and volunteer activities within the local community, ensuring they are safe, engaging, and promote skill-building.

· Act as an advocate for individuals with IDD by promoting their rights, ensuring they have equal access to community resources, and helping them navigate community-based systems and services.

· Teach and support skills such as communication, socialization, job readiness, self-care, and safety while interacting in various community settings.

· Regularly communicate with Supervisor to assess progress, review goals, and adjust community participation plans as needed.

· Track participation, skill development, and outcomes for individuals. Document and maintain detailed records of activities, progress reports, and incident reports.

· Ensure that all activities are conducted safely and in compliance with relevant regulations, including safeguarding the health and well-being of the individuals under care.

· If necessary, provide or arrange transportation for individuals to attend community activities, ensuring accessibility.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to walk for extended periods, climb stairs, and navigate different terrains.

· Capability to lift and carry moderate weights

· Ability to stand for extended periods, especially during events or meetings

· Clear vision and hearing to effectively communicate and observe surroundings.

· Fine motor skills for tasks like writing, using technology, and handling materials

Ability to drive a car as per PA State DOT regulations

*******Lighthouse Vocational Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.50 - $18.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Childcare
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Ability to Relocate:

• New Holland, PA 17557: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $19