Neighborhood Assistant

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Accountable for assisting with the organization of activities programs through the “Neighborhood” model.  The “Neighborhood” model is a guideline for the activity program whereby members are assigned based on the color engagement cycle to a particular neighborhood for tailored activities based on the information provided.   Assists with the Life Enrichments Scale assessment, as appropriate, and supports the program through leading programs and tracking member participation in programs tailored to the individual members and groups.  

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.

·         Supports coordination of engaging programs based on the results from the Life Enrichment Scale assessment, through the direction of the Neighborhood Coordinator.  

·         Programs are offered in accordance with community policies and procedures to ensure the highest quality of support to foster member engagement.

·         Works under the guidance of the Neighborhood Coordinator.

·         Assists assigned members in completing IADL’s (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living) for the purposes of maintaining the members’ independence, examples may include completing paperwork, creating shopping lists etc.

·         While keeping within professional boundaries establish a friendship with each member within his/her assignment on the members behalf that builds a sense of trust. Be responsible for knowing each member based on the Neighborhood of members assigned. 

·         Assists with the new member “Welcome” process, including the support in creating Welcome Committee bags, meeting with the membership committee, and supporting the member during the initial move in process. 

·         Ensures that safety and comfort be guaranteed to all members involved in programs and/or events.

·         Displays continuous efforts to include members’ friends and families in activities and/or events.

·         May conduct formal and/or informal member attitude/opinion polls to gather feedback and improve supports provided.

·         Supports the Neighborhood Coordinator and managers in planning and programs outside the established events calendar (e.g. volunteer opportunities, conducting appropriate member-oriented classes).

·         Offers insight and ideas to contribute to the overall Neighborhood program and be actively engaged in the process.

·         Assists in the creating and maintenance of approved schedule of programs and events.   Other duties as assigned.

·         Transports members to trips and medical appointments.

·         Must be flexible in altering schedule to meet the needs of the community including working days, nights and weekends on a regular basis.

ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Reacts appropriately to fire and emergency preparedness drills and events according to policies.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Education:   High School diploma at a minimum. College courses in a social services and/or social work preferred

Minimum Years of Experience:   Two to three years’ experience working with an Elderly population

Active Certification in good standing: Must have Valid driver’s license and good driving record required.

Must have and/or acquire a passenger service license within 6 months of employment.

Demonstrate skills:   Ability to operate a variety of office equipment, excellent organization, oral and written communication skills and expertise in computer skills relative to Microsoft office. 

Knowledge:    Some knowledge of creating activities programs and outings for the Retreat members 

Driving Required:      Yes           Agency Vehicle:  Yes                            Employee Own Vehicle:  No

Bilingual:   preferred    Language: Spanish

ADA COMPLIANCE

Physical Ability: Tasks involve the regular and, at times, sustained performance of moderately physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and that may involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of moderately heavy objects and materials (20-50 pounds).

Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors.  Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate depths.   Some tasks require visual perception and discrimination. Some tasks require oral communications ability.

Environmental Factors: Tasks are regularly performed with potential exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as strong odors, fumes, dusts, wetness, humidity, machinery, pet dander, pet waste and toxic/poisonous agents.