Disability Rights & Advocacy Specialist

JOB DESCRIPTION: The purpose of this position is to coordinate all aspects of the Center’s individual and systemic advocacy efforts with the goal of increasing independent living opportunities and community inclusion for persons with disabilities. This position is part-time (22.5 to 25 hours per week without benefits). Compensation is $20 - $22 per hour. Mileage reimbursement for travel in Southwestern Ohio. This DR&A Specialist advocates for affordable and accessible housing options; accessible transportation services and systems; increased funding and availability of home and community-based services; equal access to employment opportunities; greater community integration and accommodations of people with disabilities; and more. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Connect and collaborate with local and state advocacy groups that work to make policy and legislative changes on issues related to independent living, community inclusion, and equal access. Expand and strengthen local and regional advocacy efforts by building on existing efforts and encouraging the formation of new disability rights issues and initiatives in areas of Ohio where they do not exist. Develop and implement activities for the Center that promote advocacy on issues important to independent living for people with disabilities by organizing advocacy-related events such as public forums, legislative meetings, community surveys, letter writing campaigns, etc. Provide training and presentations for people with disabilities around the issues of advocacy and civic engagement. Provide guidance, instruction, and support to empower people with disabilities to engage in self-advocacy on issues important to their lives. Improve the understanding of policymakers, community members and groups, and other key stakeholders at the local and state levels about barriers people with disabilities face in their communities, and initiate activities to remove those barriers. Support local, state, and federal legislation, policy, and funding initiatives that promote independence and inclusion of people with disabilities. Conduct additional assignments as delegated by supervisor in a timely manner. QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in human services, political science, or related field. Experience working with people with disabilities. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Experience with public speaking and presentations; strong interpersonal skills; Ability to work with limited supervision while maintaining program accountability. Prefer strong knowledge of one or more of the following: legislative and policy creation processes; disability-related laws such the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Fair Housing Act; community and social service resources commonly used or needed by people with disabilities. Understand the Independent Living Philosophy. Must have a valid driver’s license and car insurance with reliable personal transportation. Background check and drug screening required. TO APPLY: Qualified candidates may submit a resume with a cover-letter stating qualifications, strengths, and experience by email to: Center for Independent Living Options, Inc. Attn: Suzanne Hopkins, Director of Programs 2031 Auburn Avenue ∙ Cincinnati, OH 45219 E: CILO is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring people reflecting the diversity of our community. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants.