The Community Support Worker will assist people with disabilities through providing individualized programming, instruction and assistance in the development of skills in all areas of daily living. These experiences include but are not limited to household maintenance, cooking, laundry, budgeting, use of leisure time, transportation and utilization of community resources; may require provision of personal care. Other responsibilities include assisting with gaining access to participation in social recreation, volunteer and other community based activities of their choosing while gaining and/or maintaining health and safety awareness. The Community Support Worker will provide the opportunity for individuals served to participate in new activities and visit new places while teaching skills and fostering independence in the community.

The Community Support Worker must have good judgement, be a positive role model and be able to communicate respectfully and effectively with the people served and their support team. The worker will help support and guide individuals as they make relevant choices and will support and encourage their movement toward a more independent, integrated life style. The worker will continually evaluate and help individuals develop natural supports and positive community relationships. The worker will transport individuals, support them in community activities, at medical appointments, shopping and in social, recreational and leisure activities.

This position will not be office based and will require travel, it is not county specific. NLCMHA geographically covers the following 6 counties: Crawford, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Missaukee, Roscommon and Wexford.

$14.36 – $16.36 per hour

ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS:

  • Must successfully complete the Working with People class and demonstrate the ability to embrace and practice the philosophies and tools of gentle teaching.
  • Demonstrate support needed to promote integration into the community for the individual that adheres to “person-centered planning” and principles of self-determination.
  • Locate, obtain, coordinate and collaborate with resources/services outside and inside the NLCMH system as indicated by the individual treatment plan.
  • Assist or provide arrangements to access resources and events, including provision of transportation.
  • Work effectively with other service providers, families, guardians and case managers concerning assessments, services implementation and consumer participation.
  • Plan and implement an individualized activity calendar for each consumer based on consumer desires and interests with consumer involvement and input from family and support team.
  • Prepare progress notes, reports and required documentation and submit on a timely basis.
  • When caring for a person the Community Support Worker will be expected to employ physical exertion to help a person meet their personal care needs.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

High school degree/GED required and one year of experience is required. Training in mental health services or related field desired.