Community Support Specialist

$37,440 - $45,760/Yr

The Bindu Institute - Hinesville, GA

Part-time - Entry Level

Hinesville, GA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Community Support Specialist (CSS) at The Bindu Institute plays a crucial role in assisting wounded warriors who are dealing with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or other neurological conditions. The primary objective of this position is to help these individuals live fulfilling lives on their own terms, empowering them to make choices about how they live, learn, work, socialize, and engage in recreational activities. The CSS works collaboratively with clients to establish personal goals and develop tailored plans that adapt to their evolving needs. This role is designed as a long-term partnership, providing ongoing support and training to facilitate meaningful engagement in various activities, including social, recreational, wellness, volunteer work, education, and essential life skills. In this position, the CSS will be responsible for developing schedules and modifying compensatory strategies to assist clients in overcoming everyday challenges. The CSS will focus on several intervention areas, including household management, meal preparation, budgeting, vocational exploration, cognitive skill training, and exercise. The CSS will provide functional support based on the goals outlined in each client's Individualized Care Plan, helping them to acquire, retain, and improve their independence. This includes aiding clients in reintegrating into their communities, providing positive support, and advocating for their needs. The CSS will also assist clients in managing their household environments, maintaining cleanliness, and establishing safe and efficient routines. Financial management support will be provided, including training clients on handling finances and making informed purchasing decisions. The role involves promoting socialization by facilitating participation in community activities, helping clients develop community living skills, and providing training in mobility and communication. The CSS will accompany clients to appointments and community locations, educating them on how to access and utilize available resources and services. Additionally, the CSS will serve as a mentor, maintaining strong communication with clients, their families, caregivers, and referral sources, while participating in team meetings and training sessions to enhance personal and professional growth.

Responsibilities

• Provide functional support to clients based on their Individualized Care Plan to improve independence.
• Assist clients in reintegrating into their communities to encourage a healthy level of independence.
• Advocate for clients and provide positive support in their decision-making processes.
• Help clients maintain a clean and safe home environment and establish efficient routines.
• Train clients in financial management, including budgeting and making informed purchasing decisions.
• Facilitate participation in recreational and community activities to promote socialization.
• Assist clients in developing community living skills in various settings such as shopping and attending events.
• Support clients in learning to participate in desired recreational and social activities.
• Provide training or assistance with mobility and accessing public transportation.
• Aid clients in developing effective communication and social skills.
• Conduct exercises or reinforce therapeutic programs as defined by therapists.
• Educate clients on problem-solving skills and strategies.
• Accompany clients to community locations and appointments to help them access resources.
• Serve as a mentor and maintain communication with clients, families, and caregivers.
• Participate in team meetings and training to enhance job skills and personal development.

Requirements

• Experience with traumatic brain injury is required.
• Ability to set appropriate boundaries and redirect clients when necessary.
• Patience and understanding in working with clients.
• Military background is a plus.
• Reliable computer for case management and documentation.
• Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat Reader is required.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field or 1-2 years of experience working with adults who are developmentally disabled or similar experience preferred.
• Valid driver's license is required.
• Background check and driver's record check are necessary.
• Must reside in Georgia and live within a reasonable distance from clients.
• Comply with personal auto insurance requirements for business use.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in case management or similar roles.
• Familiarity with community resources for individuals with disabilities.

Benefits

• Flexible schedule