Advocacy & Resource Manager

UCP was founded in 1947 to improve the quality of life for people with Cerebral Palsy. Since then, it has grown into a national organization providing services for individuals with a wide range of disabilities and their families. UCP of Eastern CT works to facilitate the full inclusion of people with disabilities into both the workplace and the community. Here, you will be a valued member of the team, expanding your network and your abilities. Join our team of talented professionals and take your career to the next level while changing the lives of the people we support. UCP's Inclusion and Accessibility Department is looking to expand its capacity by adding an Advocacy & Resource Manager! This is an exempt, salaried position following a Monday - Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm core schedule (requires flexibility with days and hours).

The Advocacy & Resource Manager will spearhead and oversee the Inclusion & Advocacy staff in their efforts to provide information and resources to individuals with disabilities and their families, and to deliver services that further the independence of individuals with disabilities. This includes but is not limited to removing barriers to independence, attaining affordable and accessible housing, and filling gaps in services, all while providing community outreach and education for such programs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Oversee the Food Pantry by providing food assistance to individuals with disabilities and families in need. This includes but is not limited to coordination of volunteers, food procurement through various channels, ensuring proper food storage and organization, client intake and eligibility process, outreach activities to raise awareness, and partnerships/collaborations with other social service organizations to reach more people in need.

2. Engage residents, community organizations, and stakeholders in the planning and decision-making process around affordable housing initiatives. Educate the public about the importance of affordable housing and dispel myths and misconceptions that may hinder support for such efforts.

3. Oversight of the grant programs that fund the Inclusion programs and department. This includes but is not limited to identifying, writing, preparing and submitting all documentation for grants and contracts, as well as collecting, analyzing, and reporting the associated data as required.

4. Respond to client requests for assistance and make recommendations to fulfill the requests. Research networks to meet the specific criteria of each request in a timely manner, and provide follow up as needed. Evaluate effectiveness of referrals and recommendations to ensure the optimum independence.

5. Maintain working knowledge of resources, supports and opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families and caregivers. Research and perform ongoing evaluation of the disability needs within the community. Recommends activities and resources needed to meet the needs of the community.

6. Assist in researching, planning, and coordinating special events. Secure donations and sponsors for the event. Identify, define, and develop funding sources to ensure the continuance and new development of programs.

7. Collaborate with other social service agencies.

SKILLS, ABILITIES & KNOWLEDGE

● Ability to write in a persuasively and in a professionally accepted standard.

● Skill in working with and teaching individuals with disabilities. Knowledge of a variety of disabilities.

● Must be able to interact with people from all economic, educational, and cultural backgrounds.

● Able to deal with distraught or hostile people, sordid surroundings, and distressing situations of all kinds.

● Problem solving and conflict resolution in a safe and healthy manner.

● Understand, and practice in accordance with, federal, state, and local laws, statutes, and/or policies that relate to individuals with disabilities and their families.

● Skill in assessment of client mental health symptoms, service needs, social and self-care.

● Ability to work independently in the field and to use team resources/supervision to enhance performance.

● Ability to be flexible in prioritizing time and resources.

● Ability to drive. Have a valid state driver’s license, insurance and a clean driving record.

VALUES

• Belief in the dignity and worth of all people.

• Commitment to a sense of equal justice based on a model of accommodation to provide and equalize the opportunities to participate in all rights and privileges available to all people; and a commitment to supporting persons with disabilities in advocacy activities to achieve this status and empower themselves.

• Emphasis on the holistic nature of human function

• A commitment to considering individuals within the context of their family systems and communities

• Recognition of the importance of focusing on the assets of the person.

EDUCATION & WORK EXPERIENCE

A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as social work, nonprofit management, public administration, community development, or a related area is a requirement.

3-5 years Experience working in the nonprofit sector, particularly in roles related to social services, community development, or advocacy, is required.

Experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, either in direct service provision, program coordination, or advocacy roles.

Additional desired experience:

1. Demonstrated experience in grant writing and fundraising, including securing grants from government agencies, foundations, and private donors.

2. Experience in advocacy and public policy work, including lobbying for legislative changes, raising awareness about social issues, and collaborating with community stakeholders.

3. Familiarity with affordable housing programs, and or food pantry operations is beneficial.