Bridgeway - Kewanee, IL
posted about 2 months ago
The Community Support Specialist plays a vital role in providing support to consumers with serious mental illness in various residential and community living settings. This position is essential for assisting individuals in navigating their treatment plans and accessing necessary community services. The specialist will work closely with consumers to assess their overall functioning, identify their needs, and develop personalized strategies to enhance their quality of life. This role requires a compassionate approach, as the specialist will be advocating for the basic needs of individuals and helping them develop self-advocacy skills to promote personal independence. In this position, the Community Support Specialist will be responsible for implementing selected aspects of individualized treatment plans, which may include skill building, counseling, and advocacy. The specialist will also ensure that consumers are linked to community service providers, entitlement programs, and housing alternatives, thereby facilitating a comprehensive support system. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to fostering community, family, and natural supports for individuals in need. The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in the human services field and have at least one year of direct care experience working with persons with disabilities. Achieving QIDP status is necessary for working with individuals with developmental disabilities, and MHP status is required for those working with individuals with mental illness. Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license are also essential for this role, as the specialist will need to travel to various locations to provide support and services.