Family Support Advocate - UCP of Western Massachusetts - Amherst

Agency with Choice/Family Support Advocate 
Job Type: Full Time
Schedule: 37.5 hours per week
Location: Amherst, MA

Are you looking for rewarding work with adults with disabilities in the community? UCP, a growing human services agency, works with people with disabilities and their families throughout western Massachusetts in their homes and in the community.   AWC is a person-centered program which allows participants to craft their own customized Day Program.  As an AWC Family Support Advocate you will provide help with activities of daily living (eating and going out into the community) with socialization and engagement as priorities. Your day may include time spent in the community, at the home or any other location that both the members and families deem appropriate as you help the members navigate areas of importance such as hobbies, activities or interests in addition to providing guidance around needed life skills. 

 We are seeking a thoughtful and professional support to work with several disabled adults in the Amherst area and surrounding towns. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide direct, 1:1 support in the home and community
• Assist with daily living activities and promote independence
• Implement safety and behavioral support strategies as trained
• Maintain professional boundaries and accurate documentation
• Collaborate with the family and clinical team to ensure consistent care

Requirements:

• At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent
• Life or work experience with individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting up to 40 lbs. and safety interventions
• Training or demonstrated understanding of trauma-informed care strongly preferred
• Willingness to complete training in crisis prevention and de-escalation techniques
• Ability to use a computer to enter case notes; communicate by email, video conferencing, etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information
• Valid driver’s license, safe driving record, availability of a private vehicle, and current insurance
• Have certification in CPR/First Aid or ability to be certified
• CORI, SORI, DPPC, and National Fingerprint Check

 
Family Support Advocate Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision insurance after first month of employment
• Earn two weeks of vacation in first year of employment, and three weeks of vacation after first year
• Reimbursement up to $500 annually toward related license, certification or associations.
• May qualify towards federal student loan forgiveness.
• Three personal days per year
• Earn up to seven sick days per year
• 403(b) retirement program with company match after one year
• Mileage reimbursement
• Employee referral program and more! 

About Us:
As part of the UCP affiliate network, UCP of Western Massachusetts offers a variety of community programs and services for persons with disabilities and other similar service needs, including Assistive Technology, Early Intervention, Individual and Family Support, and Adult Family Care. UCP has offices in western Massachusetts and is COA accredited.  UCP of Western MA is guided by a set of core principles - Respect, Integrity, Communication, and Empathy. Our team is dedicated to providing a "Life Without Limits" for people with differing abilities, and we are seeking a motivated and talented individual who shares our commitment to these principles to join us in our mission. Learn more at http://ucpwma.org