JOB SUMMARY
The Systems Change Advocate (SCA) is a part of the Independent Living Services team at DCRC. The SCA does research and reviews the various laws, regulations and policies, to advocate for changes that will improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities.
SPECIFC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
· Participate in individual and systems change advocacy efforts to increase access to services and programs in service area.
· Develop and maintain working relationships with elected officials at the state and federal levels.
· Research and review current and newly proposed laws, regulations and policies that can/will affect persons with disabilities and communicate this information to the community and law makers.
· Establish and maintain effective communication with members, their circles of support, and others as appropriate.
· Consult with staff regarding issues that impact the lives of people with disabilities living locally, in Los Angeles County, in Southern California, in the state of California and nationally.
· Maintain adequate records necessary for reporting statistical data.
· Organize work load independently to ensure records and documents are processed and updated within time constraints.
· Maintain member files and documentation as required. Collect and input all required information into the database.
· Assist as back-up to other IL staff as needed.
· Conduct program evaluation and monitoring activities.
· Other duties as assigned.
ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
· Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the Independent Living movement, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and other related laws and regulations governing programs offered by DCRC.
· Demonstrate advanced knowledge and sensitivity engaging with diverse disability groups including but not limited to: Deaf/Hard of Hearing; Mental Health; Cognitive and Developmental Disabilities; Blind/Low-vision; Physical Disabilities; and Learning Disabilities.
· Interact with co-workers regarding independent living issues and provide coverage when co-workers are absent.
· Convey the independent living philosophy and principles of member control, equal access, and equal opportunity throughout delivery of services.
· Demonstrate commitment to DCRC and to the vision, mission, and management philosophy of the agency.
· Protect the health, safety and confidentiality of members (and coworkers) in all facets of the job.
· Adhere to agency policies and procedures – particularly those dealing with confidentiality – in all aspects of agency operations.
· Participate in developing and sustaining a healthy organizational culture based on safety, mutual regard, and open communication.
· Maintain accurate and detailed records; documenting, in particular, service to members.
· Advocate for the rights of consumers and the enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
· Complete all other duties as assigned in a responsible, professional and timely manner.
SKILL & REQUIREMENTS
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability desired. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
· Possess interpersonal skills needed to interact effectively and diplomatically with a variety of staff, volunteers and members of the community.
· Basic supportive counseling and crisis intervention skills.
· Ability to communicate effectively (oral/written).
· Knowledge of basic computer applications and report writing.
· Organizational skills, ability to work both independently with minimal supervision, and as a team member.
· Valid California Driver’s License, proof of insurance, or the ability to effectively arrange personal transportation locally and regionally.
· Life experience with a disability as well as knowledge of the Independent Living Movement philosophy preferred.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
· The work is performed primarily indoors, in the office.
· Community outreach requires some degree of local and regional travel, and the occasional outdoor event.
· Office environment includes moderate levels of noise and interruption.
· Stress level is moderate: expected to think clearly in emergencies, complete work with deadlines, deal with interpersonal conflicts, and work with frequent interruptions.
AAP/EEO STATEMENT:
The Disability Community Resource Center is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. People with disabilities, females, minorities and elderly persons are encouraged to apply for employment.
DISCLAIMER:
This job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other activities, duties and/or responsibilities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.