Inclusion Specialist

 POSITION SUMMARY:

The IDD/Autism Inclusion Specialist focuses on creating person-centered supports and inclusive environments that promote integration and participation of individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism in their community. This position is responsible for designing, implementing, and coordinating individualized supports that foster community inclusion, skill development, and social engagement. The Inclusion Specialist collaborates with individuals, families, providers, and community organizations to promote independence, belonging, and quality of life for those served

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Promote a philosophy of whole person-centered care, ensuring that services are respectful, individualized, and empowering.
• Design and implement individualized inclusion plans based on person-centered assessments and goals. 
• Facilitate access to inclusive community activities, programs, and environments that reflect individual interests and cultural identities. 
• Support individuals in developing social, communication, and daily living skills that enhance community participation. 
• Develop and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with community organizations, service providers, and tribal programs.
• Ensure the interdisciplinary teams supports align with clinical, educational, and family priorities
• Work one-on-one or in groups with individuals to build self-advocacy, relationship-building, and independent living skills across life domains.
• Partner with individuals and families to identify strengths, needs, and personal goals, and develop customized inclusion and support plans.
• Collaborate with IDD/Autism providers to ensure that inclusion and community engagement goals are incorporated into each person’s Individual Support Plan (ISP).
• Identify, create, and promote accessible, inclusive community opportunities that encourage meaningful participation and social connection for individuals with IDD/Autism.
• Coordinate with families, professionals, and community partners to ensure effective, person-centered, and culturally appropriate supports.
• Ensure that individuals are provided with the appropriate level of natural and/or paid support to facilitate successful community inclusion.
• Advocate for the rights and full inclusion of individuals with IDD/Autism in all aspects of community life.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services provided, individual progress, and available community resources.
• Prepare regular reports and updates for leadership regarding program activities and inclusion outcomes.
• Coordinate with CIHA care managers and external agencies to ensure continuity and integration of care.
• Participate in program meetings, assist in identifying opportunities for improvement, and recommend or implement corrective actions as needed.
• Facilitate group sessions, classes, and activities through Resource Center programming.
• Promote a philosophy of cultural humility and sensitivity when engaging with individuals, families, and the broader community.
• Ensure compliance with all privacy and confidentiality regulations, including EBCI, CIHA, IHS, DHHS, HIPAA, JCAHO, and 42 CFR.
• Collect and report data in accordance with CIHA procedures and supervisor direction.
• Participate in ongoing professional development, training, and continuing education opportunities as approved.
• Develop and deliver training modules for staff, families, and community partners on inclusion, communication supports, and trauma-informed care
• Mentor direct support staff and family navigators, peers in implementing individualized inclusion strategies, as assigned.
• Utilize CIHA-approved software and systems effectively for documentation, reporting, and communication.
• Maintain professional boundaries and positive working relationships with individuals served, families, and community stakeholders.
• Assist with community education, outreach, and inclusion awareness activities as assigned.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong understanding of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism, including associated support needs, interventions, and community inclusion strategies.
• In-depth knowledge of IDD systems, policies, and person-centered service models.
• Expertise in service provision, resource coordination, and support planning for individuals with disabilities.
• Understanding of the individual’s role and voice in the design, implementation, and evaluation of services offered.
• Familiarity with cultural considerations and the unique needs of tribal communities.
• Awareness of best practices that promote inclusion, self-advocacy, and independence for individuals with IDD/Autism

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Required

Experience

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in disability advocacy, navigating systems of care, and working within IDD systems and policies.
• Demonstrated experience working directly with individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and/or Autism in settings such as:
  • Residential or Supported living
  • Day programs or community inclusion services
  • Educational or vocational support
  • Behavioral health or therapeutic environments
• Experience implementing individualized service plans or behavioral support plans
• Valid North Carolina Driver’s License.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree

Preferred 

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Special Education, Public Health, or related discipline)

    Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Special Education, Public Health, or related discipline).

Experience working with tribal communities or within tribal health or human services systems

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The employee works primarily in a hospital, inpatient or outpatient clinical environment but may be required to work at other offices and locations. The work environment involves moderate risks of exposure to infectious disease, radiation, electrical hazards, and irritant chemical and explosive gases. Employee must strictly adhere to OSHA guidelines and protocol for maintaining sterile conditions.

Some travel is required. Infrequent overnight travel may be required for meetings or to attend training. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Job duties can be mentally and emotionally stressful at times given the complexity of the duties. Close mental concentration and attention to detail are required. Physical activities require the ability to be mobile, sit, reach, bend, and be in front of groups and deliver training for extended periods of time. Some physical exertion and stamina is required such as required to transport training materials or to travel. Must be able to lift 30 lbs. 

• Position requires: stand (under 1/3 time); walk (under 1/3 time); sit (to 2/3 time)

COMPLEXITY OF DUTIES: 

This position is responsible for assisting in maximizing the available resources to meet the IDD, Autism, and TBI needs of the community. Must have the ability to interpret policy, laws and regulations in order to make decisions. Duties require the application of clinical judgment and problem solving skills in order to be effective.. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Works under the direct guidance of the IDD Director must demonstrate considerable initiative and ability to work independently within applicable licensing regulations. Position must communicate effectively with supervisor to ensure alignment with organizational goals, mission, vision and values. 

RESPONSIBILITY FOR ACCURACY:

Failure to provide adequate clinical services or to properly manage and direct activities could result in poor client outcomes, delays in patient treatment, and negative patient and community relations. Ineffective health planning could have adverse effects on the health status of the community by limiting access to necessary resources. Accuracy of data and research is critical in the allocation of tribal resources. Employee is responsible for the adherence to policy and procedure. 

CONTACT WITH OTHERS:

Interacts frequently with coworkers, hospital staff, patients, stakeholders and other health professionals for the purpose of exchanging information, obtaining, or providing assistance. Serves on various local, community, and health committees, boards and advisory councils, as appropriate. Tact, courtesy, and professional conduct are required to maintain positive working relationships. Utmost sensitivity and confidentiality is required when dealing with patients and families.

CONFIDENTIAL DATA:

The provision of medical care requires that the incumbent maintain strict confidentiality regarding all patient information. The employee will have access to patient records and highly confidential information and must function with utmost integrity to safe guard this information. The employee complies with EBCI policy on confidentiality of patient records, Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority Confidentiality policy, HIPAA, 42CFR and other federal law requirements. Violations of confidentiality regulations may result disciplinary action and other action as allowed by federal regulations. 

EMERGENCY PRIVILEGES:

In the case of an emergency, any member of the Medical Staff, to the degree permitted by his/her license shall be permitted to do everything possible to save a patient’s life or save a patient from serious harm, regardless of the individual’s clinical privileges. This shall be defined as those situations in which a delay could result in serious harm or death and in which a more qualified member is not immediately available.

CUSTOMER SERVICE:

Consistently demonstrates superior customer service skills to patients/customers by demonstrating characteristics that align with CIHA’s guiding principles and core values. Ensure excellent customer service is provided to all patients/customers by seeking out opportunities to be of service.