Community Connections

Overview

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services—are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Join the Community Connections Team and help individuals live their best life by mentoring and assisting them in home and community settings, incorporating recreational activities to support personal goals, daily living skills, and increased independence. Documentation of activities is required.

• Provide one-on-one support to individuals with developmental disabilities, mentoring them at home and in the community.
• Incorporate a variety of recreational activities in support of personal goals, daily living skills, and increased independence.
• Document activities and progress as required by the supervisor.
• Follow CORE concepts of person-centered excellence and use teachable moments to assist individuals in understanding and exercising their rights.
• Meet regularly as required by oversight agencies and service programs.
• Submit billing documentation to supervisor in a timely manner.
• Assume driving responsibilities when requested and transport participants as necessary.
• Adhere to agency code of ethics and safety policies; maintain required trainings and certifications or pursue further training.
• Perform other job-related activities as requested.

• Community Habilitation Specialist I $17.90 - $18.90 per hour
• Community Habilitation Specialist II $18.16 - $19.16 per hour
• Community Habilitation Specialist III $18.41 - $19.41 per hour

• High School Diploma or equivalent; experience preferred. A combination of education and experience may be acceptable.
• Effective coaching and communication skills, respect for confidentiality, and interpersonal skills.
• Verbal and written communication skills in English for regulatory documentation.
• Physical ability to stand and walk for long periods; ability to push/pull individuals in wheelchairs and lift, bend, squat, and grasp as needed.
• Current NYS driver’s license deemed acceptable by the insurance carrier.

Described here are representative of those required to perform essential responsibilities. Reasonable accommodations may be made. Requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs, assisting with ambulation, standing/walking for extended periods, and other related physical tasks.

• Time to Recharge – Vacation, personal, sick, and holidays built around the school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Plan For The Future – 401(k) with employer match and employer-paid life insurance
• Level Up Your Skills – Tuition reimbursement and online training
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay
• Exclusive Extras – Employee discounts