Starting Rate: $25/hour

The Respite Skills Trainer is an exciting new grant-funded position that works with a small group of individuals 1:1 in a community respite setting. The Respite Skills Trainer will assist children or adults with disabilities in cooking, playing games, and arts and crafts in a safe and secure environment. The program participants will have the opportunity to build skills, socialize, and have fun while their caregivers are relieved from their caregiving duties. The Respite Skills Trainer position currently is offering morning, afternoon and evening hours on Saturday’s, with opportunities for expanded weekend hours including overnights in 2024. This position is perfect for those who are eager to expand their skills while making difference in the lives of people with disabilities and their families.

• Implements meaningful and functional program activities in which individuals of all abilities can participate.
• Ensure a safe and clean area for all participants.
• Provides ADL care that may include: ambulating, meal preparation, feeding, toileting, dressing, and dressing.
• Provides behavioral interventions to increase responsible behavior and reduce negative behaviors.
• but not limited to small group and one-on-one interventions
• Works side-by-side with individuals to prepare meals and clean up programming.
• Develop positive relationships with families and provide support in maintaining safety for the individual.
• Attend training, supervision, and staff meetings as assigned.
• Ensure that individuals we support are treated with dignity and respect in accordance with Advocates’ Human Rights Policy
• Perform all duties in accordance with the agency’s policies and procedures.
• Adhere to all principles related to the Advocates Way.

• Bachelors in a related field education or psychology OR at least 2 years of human service experience in one of the following settings school, day program, or residential setting working with either individuals with complex behavioral or complex medical needs.  
• Must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing and ability to use good judgment.
• Must have basic working computer knowledge, including Microsoft Word and Excel
• Sensitivity to the needs of the population.
• Ability to as part of a team
• High energy level, superior interpersonal skills, and ability to function in a team atmosphere.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license.  Must have access to an operational and insured vehicle and be willing to use it to transport consumers.

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.