Position Title: Advocacy Coordinator (part-time 20 hours per week)
Reports to: Executive Director, The Arc of Philadelphia
FSLA status Non-exempt

 

Summary

The Advocacy Coordinator is a new position that has been established to align The Arc of Philadelphia’s efforts more closely to the needs of its clients.  The Coordinator will be responsible for working closely with the Advocacy team, under the direction of the Executive Director, to support implementation of advocacy activities identified by advocacy team to address the needs for individuals of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

 

Position Responsibilities

The Coordinator will be responsible for supporting relationships with organizations and systems in the special disability services, employment, behavioral health and medical health fields as it relates to supporting and advocating for individual and systemic advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The purpose will be to actualize The Arc of Philadelphia’s mission of promoting active citizenship, self-determination and full inclusion.

The Coordinator will work with the Adult Advocacy Director and Child Advocacy Direct to support the management of a caseload of individuals requiring one-on-one advocacy, in assisting those individuals and families to navigate workforce, behavioral health, social security, provider and medical systems as required

An ideal candidate has demonstrated expertise in record keeping and managing clients, as well as demonstrating a commitment to the mission of The Arc of Philadelphia through previous professional and volunteer work.   The candidate should be eager to learn the about early intervention and special education systems as well as the transition process from school age to adulthood. A background in advocating for people with disabilities and their families is preferred.  A demonstrated ability to work with a team and support collaboration between agencies is also essential.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience social work, policy, education or related field preferred.
2. A minimum of three (3) years relevant work experience.
3. Clear criminal record and child abuse history, complete medical and drug screen (paid for by The Arc of Philadelphia). Valid driver’s license.
4. Must demonstrate effective communication skills with people from diverse backgrounds. Possess strong verbal, written and listening communication skills. Ability to easily follow verbal and written directions.
5. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to create an environment that encourages staff to voice concerns.
6. Ability to translate regulations into practice. Must know the importance of effective confidential record keeping.
7. Demonstrate discretion, integrity, fair-mindedness, confidentiality.
8. Ability to handle multiple projects, details and tasks simultaneously.  Ability to work well under pressure and flexibility respond to changing priorities, unplanned events or emergencies.
9. Must be self-motivated, self-directed and independent, possess good time management and organization skills, and show attention to detail, including prioritization.

Physical Environment / Working Conditions
Routine office environment. Some local and regional travel required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

How to Apply
Qualified candidates should send a cover letter and resumé to HR@sparcphilly.org, using "Advocacy Coordinator" as the subject line.