Community Guide/Employment Specialist

About Our Organization:

RISE Services is an organization with a wealth of knowledge and experience to help individuals with disabilities obtain and maintain competitive employment. CCS provides community guide, benefits planning, and family caregiver training.

Job Overview:

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Community Guide/Employment Specialist to provide individualized support and guidance to individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment. The Employment Specialist will work closely with clients to develop job readiness skills, identify suitable employment opportunities, and provide ongoing support to ensure successful integration into the workforce. The Community Guide Specialists will collaborate with the support coordinator, regional housing specialist, family members, and others to enable the individual to achieve and sustain integrated independent living.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for empowering others and a commitment to helping individuals achieve their employment goals.

Key Responsibilities

Community Guide:

Resource Coordination & Advocacy

• Identify and link individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to appropriate community resources.
• Advocate for individuals by collaborating with families, service providers, and community members to promote independence and inclusion.
• Assist individuals and families in developing self-advocacy skills to navigate and access community services effectively.

Housing Support

• Help individuals identify and secure affordable housing that aligns with their needs and preferences.
• Conduct housing roadmaps, tenant screenings, and housing counseling sessions.
• Assist with the housing application and recertification process.

Landlord & Property Management Engagement

• Educate landlords, property owners, and management companies on rental assistance programs (e.g., SRAP), support services, and program benefits.
• Serve as a liaison between tenants and landlords to resolve issues, mediate conflicts, and help prevent evictions.
• Set up meetings and build partnerships to expand housing opportunities.

Service Planning & Documentation

• Support implementation of person-centered plans in coordination with the support team, including housing specialists and coordinators.
• Prepare, maintain, and update accurate case files, reports, and documentation as required.
• Recognize and connect individuals with sustainable community-based opportunities.

Transportation & Direct Support

• Provide transportation to clients as needed to facilitate access to housing and community resources.
• Work directly with individuals in a 1:1 staffing ratio to provide tailored support.

Transition & Move-in Support

• Assist individuals with moving arrangements including securing funds for deposits, furnishings, adaptive aids, and related expenses.
• Support logistical planning and coordination of all details related to the move.

Community Engagement & Representation

• Act as an ambassador for the organization, promoting its mission and fostering relationships with local leaders, agencies, and foundations.
• Uphold a culture of professionalism and philanthropy while representing the agency in the community.

Flexibility & Professionalism

• Maintain a flexible schedule to meet client needs.
• Demonstrate professionalism in interactions with individuals, families, community partners, and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Employment Specialist:

Client Assessment and Goal Setting

• Conduct initial assessments to evaluate clients' skills, abilities, and employment goals.
• Collaborate with clients to develop personalized employment plans based on their strengths, interests, and needs.

Job Readiness Training

• Provide training and support to help clients develop essential job skills, such as resume writing, interviewing techniques, and workplace etiquette.
• Conduct mock interviews and role-playing exercises to prepare clients for job interviews and workplace interactions.

Job Search Assistance

• Assist clients in identifying suitable job opportunities based on their skills, interests, and employment goals.
• Provide guidance on job search strategies, including networ