Independent Living Specialist

Job Title: Independent Living Specialist 1.0 FTE/Non Exempt

Reports To: Program Manager

Location: San Bernardino

Rolling Start, Inc., Center for Independent Living (RSI) is a 501 c (3) not-for-profit organization that provides advocacy and services to people with all types of disabilities. The mission of RSI is to educate and empower people with disabilities to achieve the independent life of their choice. We have been serving San Bernardino county for 44 years.

Position Summary:
Following a strict philosophy of consumer control, Independent Living Specialists (ILS) provide information, referrals and assistance, supports for housing, benefits advisement, transportation, skills training, peer supports, and advocacy. The ILS will facilitate group interaction for either peer support, Living Well in the Community, Youth, or others. This position will engage the community with outreach and education. The ILS will provide support and advocacy to ensure individuals can maintain their independence in the community and for individuals who want to leave an institution and transition to community. The ILS will support youth who want to leave home to pursue higher education or employment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The Independent Living Specialist primary goal is to assist people with disabilities and older adults achieve their independent living goals. This will include:

• Assessment of current needs,

• Provide independent living services and options (options counseling) This may include but not limited to, food & nutrition, budgeting, cleaning, etc.

• Development of an independent living plan;

• Support the coordination of services within Rolling Start and with outside agencies and service providers;

• Consumer advocate to include, but is not limited to, redeterminations, appeals & IEPs;

• Peer Counseling;

• Facilitate peer support groups, Independent Living classes & social events;

• Support transitions from NF to Community & youth transitions to employment and/or higher education;

• Develop and maintain the physical file Consumer Service Record (CSR), ensuring all required documentation is included;

• Maintain the CIL Suites database record, where status, program, services, goals and progress notes are documented;

• Participate in community engagement and outreach events;

• Utilizes a team approach in all aspects of the job to ensure the consumer gets the support needed to achieve their goals;
• All other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Ability to work independently with a moderate amount of supervision;

• Excellent time management skills; ability to maintain your calendar, be on time for appointments and meeting task completion deadlines;

• Must demonstrate knowledge of the Independent Living movement, and Philosophy;

• Associate of Arts Degree or 2-years work experience in a related field and/or life experience with disabilities. Bachelor’s Degree preferred.

Desired Skills and Qualifications:

• Bi-lingual, English/Spanish or ASL;

• Peer counseling and Motivational Interviewing techniques;

• Public Speaking Experience.

Physical Demands: