The STARability Foundation Supports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize Teamwork and connection to the community to build Awareness and Respect for individual abilities. STARability serves individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges in Southwest Florida, where we provide lifetime support and opportunities. STARability opens up a calendar of engaging activities with innovative and creative programs focusing on continuing education, teamwork, and community involvement.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Engagement Specialist is an integral member of the STARability Foundation. The Specialist has a passion for advocating for participants and is dedicated to building proficiency in these skills: self-determination and advocacy, health and safety, communication and socialization, leisure and recreation, transportation, community participation and personal finance, career path and employment, and home living. The Specialist will collaborate closely with the STAR Connect team members to shape, guide, and assess all facets of the program. With their leadership, they will be a resource for all other Program Instructors and Program Assistants

COMPETENCIES:

Competency refers to specific skills, knowledge, and behaviors crucial for effective task performance. It is associated with job roles, extending beyond basic qualifications to include technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving abilities. Core competencies are fundamental skills essential for success across various organizational roles, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving

• Job Knowledge
• Planning
• Adaptability
• Communication
• Organizational Skills
• Safety
• Professionalism
• Problem Solving

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Demonstrate and uphold STARability’s Core Values: Support, Teamwork, Awareness, and Respect.
• Lead and assist in delivering STAR Connections programs, including monthly social events, enrichment classes, recreational activities, and more
• Design and facilitate high-quality, participant-centered activities that align with individual learning goals, development needs, and personal interests.
• Collaborate with program staff on lesson planning and the development of both in-person and virtual programming.
• Provide transportation assistance as needed and actively supervise and engage participants during activities in various community and program settings.
• Accurately complete daily attendance logs and conduct routine head counts to ensure participant safety.
• Participate in supervisor feedback and evaluation sessions to enhance programming and support services.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with participants’ families and collaborating professionals.
• Utilize and promote adaptive communication strategies to support participants with language or communication challenges.
• Build positive, professional relationships with individuals with disabilities, their families, and community partners.
• Report and respond to health, behavioral, or safety concerns during program activities.
• Act promptly in the event of significant incidents by notifying appropriate parties, maintaining safety protocols, orienting team members, overseeing daily schedules, monitoring self-administered medications, and tracking the location of all participants and staff.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to Engagement Instructors and Engagement Assistants to ensure consistent, high-quality participant support.
• Support the execution of all STAR Connections programs and actively participate in organizational events, including social functions and fundraising galas.
• Other duties as assigned

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Stand or sit for long periods periodically.
• May occasionally lift at least 50 pounds unassisted and perform emergency physical interaction techniques, including lifting, bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, blocking, and grabbing with or without assistance.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, Education, Special Education, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Therapeutic Recreation, or a specialization in a related field; or four years of experience providing education, social, or direct care services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Knowledgeable and supportive of evidence-based practices and methodologies benefiting individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism.
• Ability to manage diverse situations, including occasional personal care tasks and problem behavior, with flexibility and patience.
• Strong presentation, verbal, written, and communication skills, with the ability to give and accept feedback and interact effectively with community partners, participants, and their families.
• Excellent time management, organizational skills, and ability to prioritize workload.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and database systems.
• Valid state driver's license with motor vehicle proficiency and ability to comply with legal driving requirements.
• Competency in virtual platforms like Zoom and a willingness to learn new technology for educational instruction.
• Employment offer is contingent on background checks, abuse registry, and reference checks.  

Please submit your resume to hr@starability.org to be considered.