Bilingual Peer Advocate

## Description Stavros Center for Independent Living (CIL) is seeking a
** bilingual advocate (English/Spanish)
** to support youth with disabilities as they prepare for independent adulthood. This position works with
** students ages 14–22
** to build independent living skills, self-advocacy, and confidence as they transition from school to adult life.

The advocate will work directly with students
** in schools and in community settings****,
** providing both
** individual and group services
** focused on independent living goals such as self-advocacy, community participation, education, and employment readiness. This role involves collaborating with students, families, and school staff to support each young person’s goals and  addition to youth services, the advocate will
** occasionally assist Stavros’ Independent living program
** by providing support for
** Spanish-speaking consumers****.
** This is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about
** disability rights, youth empowerment, and community inclusion**, and who wants to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people with disabilities.
** Job Responsibilities*
* · Provide
** independent living and transition services
** to youth with disabilities ages
** 14–22
** through Stavros’ Transition to Adulthood program.
· Work with students to develop and achieve
** individual independent living goals**, including self-advocacy, community participation, education, and employment readiness.
· Deliver services in
** school settings, community locations, and Stavros offices**, depending on student needs.
· Facilitate
** individual and group sessions
** focused on independent living skills and transition planning.
· Build supportive relationships with
** students, families, school staff, and community partners
** to support successful transitions to adulthood.
· Provide
** bilingual services (English/Spanish) when needed
** to ensure accessibility for Spanish-speaking students and families.
· Assist with
** outreach and recruitment
** to connect eligible youth with program services.
· Maintain
** accurate documentation, notes, and service records
** in accordance with program and funding requirements.
· Participate in
** team meetings, trainings, and program planning activities**.
· Occasionally support
** adult independent living programming
** by assisting Spanish-speaking consumers when language access is needed.
· Promote the
** Independent Living philosophy**, including consumer choice, self-determination, and disability rights.## Qualifications
· Bilingual
** in English and Spanish** (spoken and written) required.
· Commitment to
** disability rights, independent living philosophy, and inclusion****.*
* · Experience working with
** youth or young adults with disabilities**, preferably ages 14–22.
· Ability to
** build rapport with youth**, support goal setting, and encourage self-advocacy and independence.
· Experience working in
** school settings, community programs, or youth services
** is a plus.
· Strong
** communication, organization, and documentation skills**.
· Ability to work
** independently and collaboratively
** as part of a team.
· Comfortable facilitating
** both individual and small group activities or workshops**.
· Proficiency with
** basic computer programs** (email, documentation systems, Microsoft Office).
· Reliable
** transportation and willingness to travel locally
** to schools and community locations throughout Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties.
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