Coordinator of Youth Services - APRIL (Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living)

APRIL is a membership organization dedicated to advancing the rights of people with disabilities living in rural America. We strive to cultivate a culture of inclusivity throughout our organization which reflects that of our membership. We believe that diversity is an asset to be valued and respected. APRIL recognizes the uniqueness of each individual and uplifts the characteristics and intersectionality of characteristics within the human experience.

• Position Title: Coordinator of Youth Services
• Reports To: Executive Director initially; Program Outreach and Advocacy Manager after introductory period ends
• Pay: $35,000 – $40,000 annually based on skill level and experience
• Classification: Full Time (32-40 hours per week), Remote, Non-Exempt, Temporary Grant Funded, Benefits

Position Summary:

The position is responsible for providing youth services of the Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL) to ensure that youth with disabilities have opportunities to build individual and collective leadership skills, maximizing their opportunities to learn from one another to affect individual and community change. Targeted areas are the American Heartland and rural communities. The individual in this position will serve as a role model and mentor for youth with disabilities and an advocate for disability rights and disability justice. Responsible for planning Youth Conference with Steering Committee.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Mentor youth with disabilities on a national level.
• Create and implement dissemination regarding issues impacting youth with disabilities, including Youth Leadership Forums, transition, employment, disability rights, legislation, maintaining Youth Social Media outlets, etc.
• Host Youth Coordinators Connect calls that promote best practices in youth services with the disability perspective.
• Host Youth Peer Support calls with youth with disabilities.
• Coordinate youth program building leadership skills for youth with disabilities (currently called ‘Lead On’) as well as providing opportunities for grassroots experiences through the local Youth Leadership Forums.
• Represent APRIL and the youth disability community on the Youth Steering 
• Committee as well as youth-related boards, committees, and councils.
• Carry out the Mission and Vision of APRIL.
• Participate in community events and public relations efforts, including public speaking to groups and disability awareness.
• Attend staff meetings and participate in development opportunities.
• Complete APRIL and grant reports in a timely and accurate manner.
• Travel as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

At least two (2) years Full-Time experience coordinating and providing youth services and working with persons with disabilities. Must have IL experience.

Specific qualifications include:

• Knowledge of disability rights and the Independent Living Philosophy.
• Strong organizational and customer service skills, attention to detail.
• Experience in the delivery of presentations and leading groups.
• Experience with overseeing funding and budgeting
• Leadership and interpersonal skills with diverse peers, consumer base, other staff members and management.
• Able to function independently and adapt readily to multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Effective written and oral communications skills as well as computer proficiency.
• The ability to interact personally with people, businesses and service organizations on all levels.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• BIPOC encouraged to apply
• Personal experience with a disability

APRIL is an Equal Opportunity Employer

TO APPLY: Please email your cover letter and resume to Elissa Ellis, Executive Director at eellis@april-rural.org.