Advocacy Program Associate (Disability Services) - Non-Profit

About the Role

AHRC NYC is seeking an Advocacy Program Associate to uphold the rights of students receiving special education services from New York City Public Schools and other ID/DD service providers. The role ensures that students and families facing challenges in accessing appropriate services are well-advised and represented in resolving these issues.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance and information & referral services to parents and professionals seeking help from AHRC NYC Advocacy Office.
• Assist in conducting relevant training workshops for parents/related caregivers.
• Attend SBST, CPSE, CSE, and other meetings necessary to promote and/or ensure the delivery of appropriate services to students and their families.
• Accompany parents/caregivers on school visits as necessary.
• Develop, maintain, and enhance Quality Assurance systems that track outcomes of advocacy actions and assess parental/caregiver satisfaction with services.
• Document in a timely and precise manner all aspects of advocacy services as required by OPWDD contracts.
• Prepare reports and other written materials as required.
• Attend city-wide coalition meetings and committee meetings under the direction of the Director of Advocacy Services.
• Perform all other job-related activities as needed.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Social Work, or related human services field required, or a Bachelor’s degree in these fields plus 2 years of professional work experience.
• Working knowledge of Federal IDEA and NYS and NYC Department of Education regulations, as well as special education law and guidelines, and an understanding of CPSE/CSE processes.
• Experience advocating for students with developmental or intellectual disabilities highly preferred.
• Bi-lingual language skills in Spanish highly desirable.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively and establish/maintain relationships with students, family members, and external professional staff.
• Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills, with the capacity to make independent decisions and handle time-sensitive and/or stressful situations.
• Flexibility to occasionally work outside of normal business hours.
• Valid Driver’s License helpful.

Pay

$55,000-$65,000 per year.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm (35 hours per week).

Benefits

• Low-cost, high-quality Medical Insurance (single & family plans)
• 403(b) retirement plan with company match
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off (sick, personal, and vacation)
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

AHRC New York City provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants, with employment based upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination.