Coordinator of Community Services in Hartford, Connecticut at Harc Inc

The Manager of Community Services manages the day-to-day operation of all community services programs provided by Harc, including but not limited to Individual Home Supports, Community Companion Homes, Respite, and Recreation. This position ensures that Harc remains on the cutting edge of service delivery, develops services innovation, builds positive community relationships and resources, and ensures Harc’s overall mission is pursued.   The Manager assists the Director in leading the community services team and ensures that people supported by Harc lead lives of quality, inclusion and dignity by building and supporting the team to help people build a great life.  

The Manager leads and guides a team of dedicated staff members, ensuring best practices in working with individuals with intellectual disabilities. Leadership, time management, and communication skills will be instrumental in fostering a supportive and enriching environment for both participants and staff.  

Key Responsibilities:

Program Management:

• Supports Harc in advancing its mission by supporting its community and governmental advocacy efforts; demonstrating cutting edge service delivery and supporting activities that promote Harc’s financial stability, including supporting Harc fundraisers
• Promotes a person-centered environment, coordinating and implementing comprehensive support and programs necessary to promote a life of quality, inclusion, and dignity for each person supported.
• Ensures the highest degree of health, safety and cleanliness in all programs. 
• Develop and implement individualized support plans for each resident, focusing on their unique needs, goals, and aspirations.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programs and services, making adjustments as needed to optimize outcomes.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate and integrate services, including medical, behavioral, and vocational support.

Staff Supervision and Development:

•  Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate a team of direct support professionals, promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.
•  Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to enhance staff performance and job satisfaction.
• Monitor and maintain staff training and certification, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices.
• Oversee medication administration certification for staff in group home, ensuring adherence to medication protocols and compliance with regulations.
• Manage staff scheduling to ensure adequate coverage, taking into account individual and team needs, while maintaining budgetary guidelines. 

Compliance and Financial Oversight:

• Understand and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, licensing requirements, and quality assurance standards, particularly those outlined by the Department of Developmental Disabilities.
• Implement and maintain systems for personal financial oversight, including managing the finances of each resident, ensuring their financial well-being and compliance with funding guidelines.
• Develop and manage programmatic budgets, monitor expenses, and identify opportunities to optimize resources and secure funding for program needs.
•  Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, conduct audits, and prepare financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Key Competencies:

 Leadership:

•  Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a team, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and accountability.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the capacity to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to interact with individuals with IDD, their families, staff members, and external stakeholders.

Person-Centered Approach:

•  A deep commitment to supporting individuals with IDD in achieving their personal goals and maximizing their independence.
•  Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude toward diverse abilities and backgrounds.
•  Understanding of the principles of dignity, choice, and self-determination for individuals with IDD. 

Advocacy and Collaboration:

• Knowledge of local resources and services for individuals with IDD, as well as the ability to build partnerships and collaborate with community organizations and stakeholders.
•  Strong advocacy skills to promote inclusion and access to opportunities for individuals with IDD.
• Ability to work effectively with interdisciplinary teams, including case managers, healthcare professionals, educators, and other service providers.

Additional Job Functions:

• Maintain up-to-date training commensurate with the position.
• May be required to provide new hire orientation or become certified to teach Abuse and Neglect, CPR, PMT, or other trainings.
• Chairs in-house committees as assigned.
• Supports the people we support by participating in a 24-hour on-call administration availability for emergency notification and resolution.
• Flexibility to work evenings, and occasional weekends, and attend agency-wide events and fundraisers to support the needs of the organization.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (such as social work, psychology, special education, healthcare administration, or finance) is preferred. Equivalent work experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with individuals with IDD, preferably in a residential setting, with a strong understanding of compliance regulations and requirements, particularly those outlined by the Department of Developmental Disabilities.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in financial oversight, including managing personal finances for residents and budgeting for programmatic needs.
•  Experience in developing and managing programmatic budgets, monitoring expenses, and securing funding for program needs.
•  Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Publisher, Google Suite, and various databases to effectively manage documentation, financial records, and communication.
• Valid Driver's License required, with reliable transportation, to attend off-site meetings, appointments, and agency-wide events.