We are seeking a recent college graduate or current college student to provide tutoring, companionship, and exercise for our 23 year old son, J, in the Herndon area on a part-time basis. This is a great opportunity to learn new skills and also make a huge impact in J's life!
J's communication challenges stem from apraxia, a condition that impedes his ability to initiate, stop, or slow down certain sequences of movements, including those involved in speech. Although J can communicate some basics by speaking, he can't initiate saying his longer and deeper thoughts. Instead, J is a "speller", which means that he points to letters on a letter board (or occasionally types on a keyboard) to spell out his thoughts.
J is positive, smart, loves to learn, and is rapidly working his way through high school courses. Among other things, J enjoys hiking, exercising, engaging in creative projects, visiting with fellow spellers in the area, and spelling out his original poems, lyrics, and ideas.
We will provide all the training you'll need for the position. The times J needs you are 3 hours on Saturday afternoons and/or 3 hours on Sundays (either in the morning or in the afternoon), plus 3 hours on Tuesday afternoons and/or 3 hours on Thursday afternoons for a total of 6 to 12 hours per week.
In addition to excellent pay ($30+/hour), benefits include the opportunity to develop a relationship with and shape the future of an exceptional young man, along with significant training, mentoring, and hands-on exposure to alternative communication techniques, disability rights, and inclusion facilitation. There's also the potential to attend related conferences, workshops, and other skill-building events.
Must have own transportation and be a non-smoker.
Please submit resume and times you are available to work. Thank you.