Purpose:       To provide comprehensive information, appropriate referrals, and the support necessary to facilitate self-advocacy efforts of NWT individuals with disabilities and to provide comprehensive information as needed to all vested parties. This position works closely in overseeing Learning Supports for Persons with Disabilities

Skills Required:

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities, 2 years preferred
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Demonstrated skills in problem solving, organization and time management
• Program management> reporting, budget, completion of statistics and data analysis, supervising student placements and volunteers
• Fundraising activities and Public Awareness Forums
• Excellent computer skills, Outlook, Microsoft Office, Excel and Research skills
• Knowledge of Northern social/cultural issues and Aboriginal language skills an asset
• Must have demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a team both internally and as part of a larger team of professionals
• Ability to travel, as required, to NWT communities
• Valid driver’s license and access to vehicle

Reporting Structure:

The Information, Referral and Support Officer reports directly to the Executive Director. and works with the assistance of the Office Manager and other office support.  May supervise casual/contract staff and/or volunteers.

Activities:

     1. Provide Information, Referrals, Support 40%

• Promote and maintain the 1-800 Disability Information Line, based information which is accessed across the NWT by persons with disabilities and their families
• Respond to requests for information, referrals and support in a pleasant and timely manner- including directly through some travel to smaller communities
• Creatively problem solve with people to clarify needs and identify possible solutions
• Promote self-determination and person/ family centered planning
• Acquire appropriate release of information permission in writing prior to discussing with others the situations of persons requesting assistance
• Maintain familiarity with programs, policies and services which impact on persons with disabilities and their families in the NWT
• Other duties as required, including the coverage of other programs as needed.

1. Assist with Advocacy Efforts of Individuals and Families 15%

• Offer and follow through on self-advocacy support where needed and appropriate in order to respond adequately to requests for help made through the information, referral, support service
• Provide assisted advocacy for individuals with disabilities when they are unable to advocate on their own behalf, always with the foundation of person centered care
• Help to organize advocacy efforts as needed
• Consult with Executive Director regarding advocacy actions, considering broad implications for the Council and other persons with disabilities and families
• Assist/train people with disabilities to do own internet research and access peer support electronically
• Ensure permission is explicitly given for any follow up action on behalf of persons accessing Council services
• Respect peoples’ decisions about how to address their personal situations

1. Networking/Research 10%

• Promote the Information, Referral and Support Program and the NWT Council of Persons with Disabilities in Public Information sessions
• Identify and nurture allies in the communities and within government who can assist to ensure peoples’ needs are met and rights are respected
• Research information to meet requests of persons with disabilities and families to ensure that appropriate decisions can be made
• Research information as requested by service providers, agencies, and other interested individuals
• Ensure that other service providers, Aboriginal representatives/groups, public governments and the general public are aware of programs and services offered by the Council and others
• Develop program promotional materials
• Represent the Council on various committees and consultations, as required in a professional manner that conveys the mission and core values of the Council
• Travel as requested to various NWT communities in order to represent the Council, provide workshops, meet with community members/individuals with disabilities or complete other duties as requested and fitting under the Mission of the Council

1. Reporting/Documentation 20%

• Document all requests received on the 1-800 information line or any other means for Information, Referral and Support services, as well as action taken, for the purposes of program evaluation and future funding
• Maintain detailed files on persons with disabilities and family members to facilitate future service delivery

1. Administration 15%

• Prepare and submit required reports for funder(s) as required
• Prepare statistical and activity information on a regular basis for evaluation purposes
• Identify trends in the needs and barriers faced by persons with disabilities and make suggestions for follow-up and changes required in public policy and service delivery
• Adhere to the NWT Disabilities Council policies and procedures
• Participate in staff meetings and other Council and office activities

Education:

• Minimum completed 2 years of post- secondary school education in Disability Studies, Social Work, Social Services, Human Services or equivalency. Combinations of experience and education will be considered.