The Boston Center for Independent Living (BCIL) is a frontline civil rights organization led by people with disabilities that advocates to eliminate discrimination, isolation, and segregation. Our mission is to enhance the independence and inclusion of people with disabilities through advocacy, information and referral, peer support, skills training, PCA, and transitional services.
As an organization, we commit to making all aspects of our work antiracist, not only because it is just but because it is necessary to serve our community of people with disabilities. We commit to purposefully identify, discuss, and challenge issues of race and ethnicity, and the impacts they have on our organization, our work, and our people.
BCIL serves a very diverse clientele, and our staff reflect much of that diversity. People with disabilities, people of color and those who speak another language are encouraged to apply for positions. All applicants are welcome.
Position Summary: Identifies and assists in coordinating services and supports for community living for people with disabilities at risk of entering a nursing home or those already in one. Will assist consumers to obtain needed community-based services, including housing, and also will conduct outreach to residents and staff of skilled nursing, and other facilities in Greater Boston. Reports to the Community Living Advocacy Program Coordinator.
Responsibilities:
Assists consumers at risk of entering a nursing home to remain in the community or return to the community if already in one, developing plans and strategies around services and supports.
Conducts outreach to residents and staff at nursing homes, rehabs, and other long-term care settings to increase awareness of BCIL services and develop working relationships.
Provides services including service coordination, advocacy, peer mentoring, and options counseling, supporting consumers in their efforts to remain in or return to community living.
Advocates for the rights and integration of individuals with disabilities. Helps individuals advocate for the services, resources, and accommodations they need to live healthy and secure lives in the community.
Participates in various meetings as a member of the BCIL Direct Services team, including monthly Staff Meetings, Direct Services Team meetings and Case Conference meetings.
Engages in coordinated community outreach efforts (and associated meetings) along with other members of the Direct Services team.
Documents consumer, community, and program activities accurately and timely in data collection systems and on reporting forms, in accordance with guidelines and requirements.
Other related duties as may be assigned.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a human services field and/or relevant independent living experience.
Member of the population to be served or extensive experience working with population to be served.
Bi-lingual skills (Spanish, Haitian Creole, Cape Verdean Creole, Cantonese, or other relevant languages) a plus.
Commitment to independent living philosophy essential.
Creativity and the ability to initiate and carry out projects.
Ability to set clear, professional boundaries and work as part of a team in all settings when representing the agency.
Ability to work with a variety of people and assist with agency collaborations.
Strong oral and written communication skills and excellent listening skills.
Ability to manage time effectively.
Equipment Operated:
Computers, copier, scanner, Microsoft Office, printer, and other office equipment/programs.
Working Environment:
Office area is a shared workspace divided by cubicles. Verbal communication can be heard from other staff in adjoining cubicles. Will need to be in the office or field a majority of time; occasional remote work as situation requires. Office protocols require a copy of covid vaccine card be provided.
Hours
40 Hours – Full Time
Benefits:
2 weeks paid vacation (increases with length of service)
2 personal days /13 holidays / 12 sick days
Health, dental, and vision (75% paid by agency). Short-term disability, long-term disability, and group life insurance 100% are paid by the company.
Optional FSA medical and dependent care accounts, critical care insurance, and additional life insurance available (employee paid).
403(B) Retirement plans available.
Salary: $45,000 depending upon experience; additional salary for desired bilingual abilities.
Email cover letter and resume
BCIL is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodation is provided as needed for employees and other affiliates. Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE) checks are part of BCIL’s standard procedure.