Community Development & Instructional Specialist

Job Title: Community Development & Instructional Specialist Job Summary: We are seeking a compassionate and skilled professional to join our team in supporting individuals with disabilities in their day-to-day lives. This role integrates community development, instructional support, daily living assistance, and behavioral analysis to help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence, improve life skills, and fully participate in their communities. The ideal candidate will have a blend of expertise in community integration, teaching, daily living support, and behavioral intervention.

Key Responsibilities: 1. Community Development: o Work with local communities to develop and implement inclusive programs and resources that support individuals with disabilities. o Collaborate with local organizations, agencies, and stakeholders to promote accessible services, employment opportunities, and social inclusion. o Advocate for the needs of individuals with disabilities within community settings to improve accessibility and overall quality of life. o Facilitate the development of community partnerships to ensure support systems are in place for individuals with disabilities. 2. Instructional Specialist: o Design, develop, and implement individualized educational plans (IEPs) or personalized programs to address the unique learning needs of individuals with disabilities. o Deliver targeted instruction, adapting teaching methods to the learner's cognitive, physical, and emotional needs. o Provide ongoing training and support to families, caregivers, and other support staff to reinforce learning and development at home and in the community. o Utilize a variety of teaching tools and techniques, including visual aids, adaptive technologies, and hands-on activities. 3. Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Support: o Provide assistance with daily living activities such as personal hygiene, dressing, grooming, cooking, and household management. o Foster independence by teaching and encouraging individuals to perform ADLs to the best of their ability. o Implement strategies to enhance motor skills, fine motor coordination, and independence in activities such as eating, bathing, and mobility. o Work closely with caregivers and family members to monitor progress and make recommendations for improving ADL skills. 4. Behavioral Analysis: o Conduct functional behavior assessments (FBAs) to identify behaviors of concern and their triggers, antecedents, and consequences. o Develop and implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) to address challenging behaviors and promote positive alternatives. o Use evidence-based strategies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques to improve social, communication, and adaptive behaviors. o Track and document progress, modifying intervention plans as necessary to achieve the desired outcomes. o Provide training to staff, caregivers, and family members on behavior management techniques. 5. Collaboration and Support: o Work as part of a multidisciplinary team, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, and medical professionals, to ensure holistic support for individuals. o Offer guidance and mentorship to other team members, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. o Ensure clear communication and documentation of progress, challenges, and goals to ensure continuity of care and support. 6. Professional Development: o Stay current with trends, research, and best practices in disability services, community development, instructional strategies, and behavioral analysis. o Participate in workshops, conferences, and training sessions to continually improve skills and knowledge in the field.

Qualifications: • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education, Psychology, Social Work, Community Development, or a related field. • Certification or training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is preferred. • Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and/or mental health conditions. • Strong knowledge of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and strategies for promoting independence. • Ability to assess, design, and implement individualized educational and behavioral programs. • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work collaboratively with individuals, families, and other professionals. • Compassion, patience, and a person-centered approach to supporting individuals with disabilities. • Knowledge of local community resources and services for individuals with disabilities is a plus.

Additional Skills: • Ability to build positive relationships and effectively motivate individuals to reach their full potential. • Organizational skills to manage caseloads, document progress, and maintain records. • Adaptability and creativity in problem-solving and tailoring support strategies. • Strong interpersonal and team-working skills. • Understanding of laws and regulations related to disability services. Working Conditions: • Work may involve travel to community events, homes, schools, or medical facilities.

Requirements

Qualifications: • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education, Psychology, Social Work, Community Development, or a related field. • Certification or training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is preferred. • Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and/or mental health conditions. • Strong knowledge of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and strategies for promoting independence. • Ability to assess, design, and implement individualized educational and behavioral programs. • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work collaboratively with individuals, families, and other professionals. • Compassion, patience, and a person-centered approach to supporting individuals with disabilities. • Knowledge of local community resources and services for individuals with disabilities is a plus.