The Center for Independence is a 501 (C) (3) organization serving as a resource for individuals with disabilities to fully access and participate in the community through outreach, advocacy, and independent living skills development. We serve senior citizens with senior-related disabilities as well.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

TITLE: Veteran Directed Care Specialist & IL Specialist

 STATUS: Full-time 

REPORTS TO: Related Program Manager(s)

 PURPOSE: The purpose of the Veteran Directed Care Specialist and Independent Living (IL) Coordinator is to provide direct Independent Living services to veterans, especially those with moderate to severe brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other disabilities affecting their independence. They assist veterans referred by the VA Medical Center in developing personalized plans that aim to enhance their quality of life and independence within their homes and communities. The IL Coordinator works under the supervision of the IL Supervisor, following the Independent Living Philosophy, and offers core services like advocacy, skills training, peer counseling, information and referral, and transition support. Additionally, they provide resources and training related to housing, benefits, transportation, personal care, medical services, employment, education, and other individualized needs.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS ______________________________________________________________________

·        Serve as the liaison for VDC program inquiries, providing guidance and support to staff, and escalating issues to the Program Manager as needed.

·        Assist veterans in finding and maintaining caregivers, developing care plans, and ensuring ongoing support.

·        Help veterans create monthly budgets, utilize veteran benefits, and coordinate with VA Social Workers and Financial Management Service providers to develop spending plans.

·        Conduct Independent Living (IL) assessments, develop individualized plans, and provide necessary services, including advocacy, skills training, peer support, and information and referral.

·        Provide one-on-one IL skills training with veterans both in-home (quarterly visits required) and at the CFI office.

·        Support veterans in participating in community activities such as shopping, recreation, and social groups, while ensuring family members also receive support.

·        Maintain detailed participant documentation and files according to established policies.

·        Monitor progress on IL goals, provide follow-up opportunities, and update action plans with measurable goals, objectives, and timelines.

·        Advocate for veterans to obtain benefits (e.g., Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP) and assist with application processes as needed.

·        Track referrals and follow-ups, ensuring timely responses and coordination with other service providers and community partners.

·        Coordinate training and resources based on individual needs identified in the IL plan.

·        Participate in weekly consultations, monthly meetings, trainings, and submit regular reports to the supervisor.

·        Participate with outreach to individuals with disabilities from diverse backgrounds

·        Ensure participants have inclusive emergency preparedness plans in place.

·        Represent the organization in the community to raise awareness about disabilities and available services.

·        Stay informed on legal requirements and available resources, ensuring effective advocacy and support for both consumers and their families.

·        Collaborate with CFI staff and community agencies to ensure participants receive all needed services and resources.

·        Continuously improve knowledge and skills through relevant training opportunities.

·        Demonstrate a commitment to the independent living philosophy by empowering participants with choice and control over their services.

·        Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS______________________________________________________________________

 ·       Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Education or a related field is preferred but not required. Prior personal and professional experience with disabilities may be substituted for education if the individual meets the essential functions of the job.

·       Experience as a case manager or social worker is a plus.

·       Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including but not limited to WORD, EXCEL, Publisher, and PowerPoint.

·       Ability to become proficient in using CFI’s client data base and any other software programs needed to perform job duties.

·       Ability to travel.

·       Knowledge of ADA regulations is a plus.

·       Experience living with a disability or being a veteran is a plus.

SALARY & BENEFITS: Depending on qualifications and experience. Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and 401(k) benefits available after successful completion of probationary period. 11 Paid Holidays off + generous PTO.

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled

TO APPLY: Send resume and cover letter to Faith Brown faithb@cfisouth.org

Center for Independence is an equal opportunity employer and provider of employment and training service. CFI does not and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.