Disability Support Advocate: Las Vegas, NM office

Wage: $19.00 – $21.00 Depending Upon Qualifications

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

New Vistas is a local nonprofit organization that provides independent living, early intervention, and advocacy services for people with disabilities. These services range from providing peer support, independent living skills classes, and employment assistance to individual and systems advocacy. Our mission is to partner with and support people with disabilities and families of children with special needs to enrich their quality of life in New Mexico.  As a Center for Independent Living, New Vistas staff and board are composed of 51% people with disabilities and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

New Vistas has a full-time employment opportunity for a Disability Support Advocate in our Las Vegas, NM office. The Advocate implements the delivery of the core services of independent living including peer counseling, advocacy, information and referral, independent living skills development and transition services.  Services are provided throughout the New Vistas service area including Santa Fe, San Miguel, Mora, Rio Arriba, Los Alamos, Taos, Union, Harding and Colfax counties including the pueblos.  He/she will advocate for disability issues on individual and system levels and provide assistance as needed to the Disability Support and Advocacy Team.

Applicants should be able to understand and model the Independent Living Philosophy, be comfortable presenting to small and large groups, and have knowledge of the ADA, Rehabilitation Act, and Fair Housing Act.  Advocates will work in partnership with other community agencies and resources in an effort to meet consumer needs, rights, support in identifying advocacy trends, and participates in advocacy efforts.

New Vistas is simply a wonderful place to work! We provide a great work environment, competitive and great benefits.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including public speaking.
• Computer skills necessary.
• Ability to complete documentation and reports in a timely manner.
• Knowledge of disability issues, ADA and related regulations and programs.
• Ability to organize people, data and events.
• Ability to supervise and work efficiently with or without direct supervision.
• Ability to comply with the Authorized Driver’s Policy in the New Vistas Policy Manual while performing job-related duties; ability to arrange own transportation for use in job-related duties or use of own vehicle.
• Understanding of financial benefits (SSI/SSDI) and ADA issues regarding access, employment, etc.
• Bilingual proficiency English/Spanish highly desirable.

As a Center for Independent Living, New Vistas is required to ensure that at minimum of 51% of our employees and management are persons with disabilities.  Therefore, the ideal candidate for this position will be a person with a disability or a person with a strong background in disability needs, independent living and community supports.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED plus 3 year’s experience providing services to individuals with a variety of disabilities, including outreach activities and program coordination.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

• Criminal record check through Department of Health
• Valid New Mexico Driver’s License or identification card

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand or sit at a work station for extended periods of time and will periodically operate or ride in a vehicle for several hours at a time.  The employee must occasionally lift or move up to 25 lbs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position will be based at New Vistas satellite office in Las Vegas, NM.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position involves significant periodic travel, including occasional overnight stays.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outdoor weather conditions and the noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  None

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Collaborate with community agencies such as Public Health, DVR, schools, churches and local service organizations in the identification and development of services to individuals with disabilities in the service area
   1. Increase community awareness of disability-related services through education programs, including participating in trainings and workshops to service providers, employers, agencies and schools focusing on disability awareness and rights.
   2. Identify consumer and community needs. Provide training in individual and systems advocacy.
   3. Interface with agencies, businesses and schools for referrals and service development, especially regarding transition of students with disabilities. Work to enhance rural opportunities for people with disabilities.
   4. Provide systems advocacy, education and leadership around legislative issues.
   5. Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual reports, complete daily logs, track outcome measurements and complete file reviews on a timely basis. Participate in team meetings as scheduled.
   6. Assist individuals with disabilities seeking to live independently and help identify resources available for de-institutionalization as needed.
   7. Provide the core services of independent living including peer counseling, advocacy, information and referral, de-institutionalization and transition.
2. Provide program services effectively and in a manner that reflects the philosophy of the department
3. Provide person-centered and relationship based services.
4. Perform duties in an organized, efficient and timely manner.
5. Demonstrate sensitivity to linguistic, cultural, social, economic and individual roles among persons and families served.
6. Use independent judgement and discretion in setting daily priorities to complete tasks.
7. Function as an effective team member with co-workers and the community to build productive, collaborative relationships and to achieve program goals and objectives
8. Be respectful of other team members and actively facilitate collaboration among members.
9. Participate regularly in team, department and agency meetings, taking a leadership role when requested.
10. Build productive professional relationships to support the achievement of program goals, through outreach and collaboration with consumers, family members and other professionals in community agencies.
11. Maintain established work schedule: be punctual, keep appointments, and be willing to adapt schedule to meet unexpected needs and changes.  Use time effectively.
12. Adhere to established guidelines for documentation.
13. Share pertinent information with supervisor and team members regarding work progress, successes, barriers, concerns and other areas that may affect the agency’s services or image.
14. Support the decisions of the Executive Director and members of the management team to staff, participants and the community.
15. Communicate through verbal and written means accurately, concisely, professionally and in a timely manner
16. Maintain a positive, respectful and courteous manner.
17. Understand and maintain private, sensitive and confidential information within the confines of need-to-know parameters.
18. Maintain accurate written and computer logs/documentation, submitting them in accordance with program standards and schedules.
19. Proof and revise work for correct grammar, spelling and format per program standards.
20. Use supervision effectively and apply relevant information in the work setting
21. Actively participate in regular, reflective and collaborative supervision. As appropriate, take the initiative to seek supervisory support, assistance and guidance.
22. Incorporate constructive direction from supervisor to improve job performance by accepting responsibility for the quality of job performance and making necessary changes.
23. Take initiative to secure professional development opportunities and apply relevant information in the work setting
24. Accurately identify areas of mastery and areas for growth and development. Seek assistance and guidance when needed.
25. Maintain awareness of current professional information in the field of activity and undertake regular and ongoing efforts to maintain competencies in the skills used. Incorporate and demonstrate new knowledge and skills on the job.

If you are interested in applying for this position, please visit our website at newvistas.org or submit a letter of interest and resume to:

Sarah Michaud, New Vistas Executive Director

505-471-1001 ext. 108

smichaud@newvistas.org

Independent Living Advocate – Youth Transition and CTE services

Wage: $19.00 – $21.00 Depending Upon Qualifications

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

New Vistas is a local nonprofit organization that provides independent living, early intervention, and advocacy services for people with disabilities. These services range from providing peer support, independent living skills classes, and employment assistance to individual and systems advocacy. Our mission is to partner with and support people with disabilities and families of children with special needs to enrich their quality of life in New Mexico.  As a Center for Independent Living, New Vistas staff and board are composed of 51% people with disabilities and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

New Vistas has a full-time employment opportunity for an Independent Living Advocate for Youth Transition and CTE in our Santa Fe, NM office. The Youth Transition and CTE Services Advocate is part of the Disability Support and Advocacy Team at New Vistas and will work with the team to implement the core services of independent living with a focus on youth transition services.  This position is responsible to network with community schools in Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, Los Alamos, Taos, Union, Harding, Colfax, San Miguel and Mora Counties on youth transition services, independent living services, and career education.  In coordination with the Youth Advocate, the Youth Transition Advocate will work with youth with disabilities age 14-24 to help them to explore education and employment goals, to develop independent living skills, and to access peer supports.  The Youth Transition Advocate will also assist with the planning and facilitation of an annual Transition Conference for youth in the agency’s nine county service are

Applicants should be able to understand and model the Independent Living Philosophy, be comfortable presenting to small and large groups, and have knowledge of the ADA, Rehabilitation Act, and Fair Housing Act.  Advocates will work in partnership with other community agencies and resources in an effort to meet consumer needs, rights, support in identifying advocacy trends, and participates in advocacy efforts.

New Vistas is simply a wonderful place to work! We provide a great work environment, competitive and great benefits.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including public speaking.
• Computer skills necessary.
• Ability to complete documentation and reports in a timely manner.
• Knowledge of disability issues, ADA and related regulations and programs.
• Ability to organize people, data and events.
• Ability to supervise and work efficiently with or without direct supervision.
• Ability to comply with the Authorized Driver’s Policy in the New Vistas Policy Manual while performing job-related duties; ability to arrange own transportation for use in job-related duties or use of own vehicle.
• Understanding of financial benefits (SSI/SSDI) and ADA issues regarding access, employment, etc.
• Bilingual proficiency English/Spanish highly desirable.

As a Center for Independent Living, New Vistas is required to ensure that at minimum of 51% of our employees and management are persons with disabilities.  Therefore, the ideal candidate for this position will be a person with a disability or a person with a strong background in disability needs, independent living and community supports.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED plus 3 year’s experience providing services to individuals with a variety of disabilities, including outreach activities and program coordination.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

• Criminal record check through Department of Health
• Valid New Mexico Driver’s License or identification card

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand or sit at a work station for extended periods of time and will periodically operate or ride in a vehicle for several hours at a time.  The employee must occasionally lift or move up to 25 lbs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position will be based at New Vistas office in Santa Fe, NM.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position involves significant periodic travel, including occasional overnight stays.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outdoor weather conditions and the noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  None

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Collaborate with community agencies such as Public Health, DVR, schools, churches and local service organizations in the identification and development of services to youth with disabilities in the service area
   1. Increase community awareness of disability-related services through education programs, including participating in trainings and workshops to service providers, employers, agencies and schools focusing on disability awareness and rights.
   2. Identify consumer and community needs around youth transition services. Provide training in individual and systems advocacy. Plan and facilitate annual youth transition conference.
   3. Interface with agencies, businesses and schools for referrals and service development, especially regarding transition of students with disabilities. Work to enhance rural engagement in transition services including educational and employment related activities.
   4. Provide systems advocacy, education and leadership around legislative issues.
   5. Prepare required activity and outcome reports, complete consumer contact notes, track service outcomes and complete file reviews on a timely basis. Participate in team meetings as scheduled.
   6. Assist individuals with disabilities seeking to live independently and help identify resources available for de-institutionalization as needed.
   7. Provide the core services of independent living including peer counseling, advocacy, information and referral, de-institutionalization and transition.
2. Provide program services effectively and in a manner that reflects the philosophy of the department
3. Provide person-centered and relationship based services.
4. Perform duties in an organized, efficient and timely manner.
5. Demonstrate sensitivity to linguistic, cultural, social, economic and individual roles among persons and families served.
6. Use independent judgement and discretion in setting daily priorities to complete tasks.
7. Function as an effective team member with co-workers and the community to build productive, collaborative relationships and to achieve program goals and objectives
8. Be respectful of other team members and actively facilitate collaboration among members.
9. Participate regularly in team, department and agency meetings, taking a leadership role when requested.
10. Build productive professional relationships to support the achievement of program goals, through outreach and collaboration with consumers, family members and other professionals in community agencies.
11. Maintain established work schedule: be punctual, keep appointments, and be willing to adapt schedule to meet unexpected needs and changes.  Use time effectively.
12. Adhere to established guidelines for documentation.
13. Share pertinent information with supervisor and team members regarding work progress, successes, barriers, concerns and other areas that may affect the agency’s services or image.
14. Support the decisions of the Executive Director and members of the management team to staff, participants and the community.
15. Communicate through verbal and written means accurately, concisely, professionally and in a timely manner
16. Maintain a positive, respectful and courteous manner.
17. Understand and maintain private, sensitive and confidential information within the confines of need-to-know parameters.
18. Maintain accurate written and computer logs/documentation, submitting them in accordance with program standards and schedules.
19. Proof and revise work for correct grammar, spelling and format per program standards.
20. Use supervision effectively and apply relevant information in the work setting
21. Actively participate in regular, reflective and collaborative supervision. As appropriate, take the initiative to seek supervisory support, assistance and guidance.
22. Incorporate constructive direction from supervisor to improve job performance by accepting responsibility for the quality of job performance and making necessary changes.
23. Take initiative to secure professional development opportunities and apply relevant information in the work setting
24. Accurately identify areas of mastery and areas for growth and development. Seek assistance and guidance when needed.

Maintain awareness of current professional information in the field of activity and undertake regular and ongoing efforts to maintain competencies in the skills used.  Incorporate and demonstrate new knowledge and skills on the job.  If you are interested in applying for this position, please visit our website at newvistas.org or submit a letter of interest and resume to:

Sarah Michaud, New Vistas Executive Director

505-471-1001 ext. 108

smichaud@newvistas.org

New Vistas is seeking Contract Developmental Specialists to provide services in Santa Fe, San Miguel and/or Mora counties

Open until filled.

Developmental Specialist services are carried out under our Early Intervention Program to assist families and guardians to support their children from birth to three who have or are at risk for developmental delays. Early Intervention services are primarily provided in the home and in community locations such as day care facilities, parks and museums – though they may also be provided through telehealth if agreed upon by the family or guardian.  Services focus on teaching parents or guardians how to provide support with developmental guidance and therapeutic intervention with children utilizing a coaching model to integrate intervention strategies into daily family routines. Team members can participate together for routine meetings and consultations to support interventions and plan ongoing interventions.

The minimum requirements are a current license to practice in New Mexico, a year of experience working with families, and providers must be at least 21 years of age. Individuals who are bilingual in English and Spanish or ASL and/or who have previous early intervention experience are highly desired.

Our schedule allows for a wide variety of contractor hours and caseloads depending upon individual availability.

The New Vistas Early Intervention Program service area spans three counties in Northern New Mexico spanning from the Santa Fe area to north of Las Vegas and there is flexibility with caseloads regarding which areas a service provider is interested in serving.

Salaries vary from $75 – $78 per hour depending on qualifications.

“The applicant must be able to pass the required ECECD criminal background check prior to starting their position.”

If you are a qualified individual interested in applying for the advertised position, please email a letter of interest and resume to:

Bernadette Shanaberger

EI Program Manager

New Vistas

1205 Parkway Drive, Suite A

Santa Fe, NM  87507

bshanaberger@newvistas.org

(505) 471-1001 Ext. 116 (landline)

(505) 795-5292 (cell)

Applicants who do not follow these instructions do not indicate the position for which they are applying, or who apply for positions not advertised will not be considered for review. 

New Vistas strongly encourages qualified people with disabilities and minorities to apply and is an equal opportunity employer.

New Vistas is seeking Contract Occupational Therapists to provide services in San Miguel and/or Mora counties

Open until filled.

Occupational Therapy services are carried out under our Early Intervention Program to assist families and guardians to support their children from birth to three who have or are at risk for developmental delays. Early Intervention services are primarily provided in the home and in community locations such as day care facilities, parks and museums – though they may also be provided through telehealth if agreed upon by the family or guardian.  Services focus on teaching parents or guardians how to provide support with developmental guidance and therapeutic intervention with children utilizing a coaching model to integrate intervention strategies into daily family routines. Team members can participate together for routine meetings and consultations to support interventions and plan ongoing interventions.

The minimum requirements are a current license to practice in New Mexico, a year of experience working with families, and providers must be at least 21 years of age. Individuals who are bilingual in English and Spanish or ASL and/or who have previous early intervention experience are highly desired.

Our schedule allows for a wide variety of contractor hours and caseloads depending upon individual availability.

The New Vistas Early Intervention Program service area spans three counties in Northern New Mexico spanning from the Santa Fe area to north of Las Vegas and there is flexibility with caseloads regarding which areas a service provider is interested in serving.

Salaries vary from $75 – $78 per hour depending on qualifications.

“The applicant must be able to pass the required ECECD criminal background check prior to starting their position.”

If you are a qualified individual interested in applying for the advertised position, please email a letter of interest and resume to:

Bernadette Shanaberger

EI Program Manager

New Vistas

1205 Parkway Drive, Suite A

Santa Fe, NM  87507

bshanaberger@newvistas.org

(505) 471-1001 Ext. 116 (landline)

(505) 795-5292 (cell)

Applicants who do not follow these instructions do not indicate the position for which they are applying, or who apply for positions not advertised will not be considered for review. 

New Vistas strongly encourages qualified people with disabilities and minorities to apply and is an equal opportunity employer.