Advocacy Program Associate (Disability Services)

AHRC NYC is seeking an Advocacy Program Associate. The Advocacy Program Associate works to uphold the rights of students receiving special education services from New York City Public Schools and other ID/DD service providers, ensuring that students and families experiencing difficulties in accessing appropriate services are well-advised and ably represented in the resolution of these difficulties.

ESSENTIAL 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 in promoting and/or ensuring 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 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 Special Education, Social Work or related human services field plus 2 years professional work experience, required.
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 required.
Experience advocating for students with developmental or intellectual disabilities highly preferred.
Bi-lingual language skills in Spanish highly desirable.
Proven ability to communicate effectively, as well as establish and maintain relationships, with students, family members, and external professional staff. Includes ability to present verbal information simply and concisely, be a skilled listener, and demonstrate strong writing skills.
Must have strong organizational and multi-tasking skills, as well as the capacity to make independent decisions and handle time-sensitive and/or stressful situations.
Flexibility in occasionally working outside of normal “business” hours required.
Valid Driver’s License helpful.
Additional Information
Benefits:

Low cost, high quality Medical Insurance (single & family plans)
403(b) retirement paln
403(b) 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