Independent Living Support Specialist - Community Impact

Mental Health Association - Western MA; Longmeadow (MA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Part time

Job summary

Mental Health Association - Western MA is seeking a Residential Support Specialist to provide a safe, supportive environment in community settings as part of the ICL program. This role travels between program locations to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism, focusing on daily living skills and community participation.

You will collaborate with teams, maintain documentation, complete MAP, CPR, and First Aid certifications, and promote dignity, choice,

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.
• Strong communication, organizational, and computer skills.
• Adaptability to participants' changing needs.
• Provide personal care, including assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility.
• Ability to pass and maintain certifications in medication administration (MAP), CPR, and First Aid.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED required; college degree in human services or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of six months of relevant experience; experience working with individuals with mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, or autism is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide respectful, person-centered support to participants in daily living activities, personal care, and skill development.
• Promote community integration by facilitating access to transportation, social activities, and external resources.
• Support participants' health needs, including medication administration (per MAP standards), appointment scheduling, and monitoring overall wellbeing.
• Assist with financial skills and money management, maintaining accurate documentation of all expenditures.
• Respond to emergencies and crisis situations appropriately, following agency protocols and communicating with supervisors.
• Advocate for participants and help them build self-advocacy skills; serve as a liaison with families, providers, and community supports.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Individual Service Plans (ISPs), documenting progress and participation.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including daily logs, incident reports, and health records.
• Promote a safe environment by following all safety procedures, assisting with emergency drills, and identifying potential hazards.
• Collaborate effectively with team members, attend training, maintain certifications (MAP, CPR, First Aid), and actively participate in meetings and supervision.

Skills

Driving

Communication

Organization

Computer skills

Adaptability

Personal care

MAP Certification

CPR Certification

First Aid

18+ years old

Education

High school diploma or GED

College degree in human services or related field preferred

Job description

Mental Health Association - Western MA is seeking a Residential Support Specialist to provide a safe, supportive environment in community settings as part of the ICL program. This role travels between program locations to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism, focusing on daily living skills and community participation.

You will collaborate with teams, maintain documentation, complete MAP, CPR, and First Aid certifications, and promote dignity, choice,