INFORMATION AND REFERRAL SPECIALIST/INDEPENDENT LIVING SPECIALIST

Assist individuals receiving VAIL services both individually and in groups in maintaining or increasing their level of independence in the home and community. To provide peer support and skills training to individuals in an effort to build self-esteem, confidence, and competence needed to achieve independence. To provide information and referral regarding community resources and programs in a timely manner.

Specialty:

Knowledge of community resources

Duties Include:

• Provide living skills training to individuals with disabilities in the following areas of instruction: cooking, housekeeping, use of public transportation, budgeting, grocery shopping, basic adult education, and other areas based on the needs of individuals both in individual and group settings.
• Perform individual and community/systems advocacy, information & referral, community education, networking & collaboration, and peer support.
• Periodically schedule, organize and participate in recreational and social activities for individuals receiving services.
• Provide transportation as needed to individuals and small groups.
• Educate individuals with disabilities on service availability, application procedures, rights, etc.
• Conduct intake interviews and admissions with individuals.
• Evaluate physical, psychological, and social needs.
• Develop individualized Independent Living Plans (ILPs) based on each individual’s goals and needs.
• Monitor the ongoing provision of services to ensure progress.
• Maintain quality documentation, complete & concise records, and reporting of activities.
• Provide information & referral as appropriate for individuals with disabilities. Respond to Information & Referral calls in a timely and appropriate manner. Assist with the identification of appropriate services and resources and facilitate access to these services and resources for individuals with disabilities.
• Perform referrals to other resources as needed, such as personal assistance, meals-on-wheels, transportation, counseling, etc.
• Assist individuals with disabilities in securing needed services and supports, including transportation, housing, SSA, SNAP, etc.
• Maintain confidentiality of individuals receiving services.
• Maintain positive working relationships with other service organizations.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings, and other meetings, as required.
• Participate in program, service, and staff development activities.
• Function as a team member with other staff, coordinating schedules, transportation and reporting.
• Represent VAIL at community functions as assigned.
• Additional duties as assigned by supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications:

• The Information and Referral/Independent Living Specialist must possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Preferably have experience, work or personal, in the field of independent living and/or accessing community resources.
• Previous experience should include use of Word, Excel, Outlook, and web-based applications.
• Must possess a valid driver's license or have the ability to utilize public transportation. Must be able to successfully pass background checks.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Working knowledge of disability services in Virginia
• Skills in Word, Excel, Outlook, and web-based applications
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals, family members, health professionals, staff, and the general public both in person and in writing
• Develop a rapport and communicate with different types of persons from diverse cultural backgrounds
• Ability to work independently and use sound judgment
• Ability to record and deliver information and maintain appropriate records
• Ability to attend functions throughout the Commonwealth as needed
• Knowledge of the independent living movement & philosophy

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $20