Job Openings
Position Posting
Independent Living / Social Security Specialist
Reports to: Fort Collins Office Manager
Location: Fort Collins office
Status: Full time/Non-Exempt
Salary: $19 hourly
Basic Function:
This position supports Disabled Resource Services and its mission by assisting adults with disabilities in achieving their maximum level of independence through the provision of the 5 core services. (Individual and Systems Advocacy, Information and Referrals, Transition services, Peer Mentorship and Independent Living skills training)
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop an Independent Living Plan in partnership with the person with disability and in their preferred mode of communication
- In a culturally minded approach, cultivate supportive working relationship with person with disability
- Establish and maintain files
- Connect and coordinate with other community service providers
- Complete all required data entry and paperwork for statistical tracking
- Learn and keep up to date on disability laws for advocacy purposes
- Refer people to community resources/services and stay current on knowledge about resources
- Assist consumers with all aspects of applying for SSI/SSDI.
- Maintain progress notes, goals and services in database
- Advocate with people with disabilities on various issues and empower people with disabilities to become self-advocate
- Work with individuals on setting and achieving their independent living goals
- Perform community outreach and agency promotion activities
- Conduct presentations regarding a variety of topics to large and small groups
- Keep current on information related to employment and education services in the community. Also, maintain an understanding of benefits and employment
- Keep current on Social Security laws, Medicare, Medicaid and others
- Assist with grants when necessary
- Work with the courts and local law enforcement agencies as an advocate for people with disabilities
- Assist in all aspects of the DRS loan closet
Qualifications: Minimum 2-years relevant experience working with people with disabilities.
Specific qualifications include:
- BA or higher in social work, psychology, or other related field
- Group facilitation experience and familiarity with group dynamics and group management.
- Ability to travel as needed for direct services and outreach events.
- Working knowledge of disabilities and disability-related issues.
- Ability to represent DRS and outreach to the community and public.
- Working knowledge of Social Security benefits, Medicare, Medicaid, TANF, A.N.D and other types of benefits
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bi-lingual in a foreign language or ASL
- Personal experience with a disability
ADDITIONAL
Must pass a background check
TO APPLY: Please email cover letter, resume and 3 references to: Denise Meyer, Executive Director at denise.m@drsnoco.org
Disabled Resource Services is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities
Board of Directors Member
Interested in joining our Board of Directors? Download the application and return it to Denise Meyer.