Description
Disability Empowerment Center is a community-based organization led and run by people with disabilities. An independent 501(c)3 nonprofit that serves King County, we are a crucial hub for individuals with disabilities to receive free individualized services and access community-based resources. We are also part of the national network of Independent Living Centers that provides services to people with disabilities in communities across the country. We are built on the independent living philosophy that believes people with disabilities should have the choice to live independently and thrive as important members of our community.
Micro
Work alongside people with disabilities in a one-on-one or small group setting while providing one of our core services such as:
- Peer Mentoring: Help empower others with disabilities by sharing resources, knowledge of living with a disability, and goal setting
- Information and Referral: Provide information about a wide variety of disability-related issues and community resources.
- Advocacy: Teach advocacy skills on three different levels
Self: Speak up for yourself
Individual: Speak up for another
Systemic: Make a change for others
- Independent Living Skills Training: Individuals work to advance the skills necessary to live more successfully and independently
- Transition
Deinstitutionalization: Transition people with disabilities out of institutions to the least restrictive environment of their choice
Youth: Work with youth to develop the skills to live independently and successfully as they transition to adulthood
Mezzo
- Network and partner with other community-based organizations with shared values
- Collaborate with other organizations to develop resources for the disabled community.
- Assist in program development and implementation of programs for the disabled community.
- Provide direct outreach in the community to share our services and recruit participants
- Assist with specialized presentations and technical assistance upon request
Macro
- Learn how people with disabilities are impacted by societal barriers and the laws in place to minimize them
- Assist with development and execution of program evaluations
- Seek feedback from participants for internal research and improvements
Required Experience
- Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in social work.
- Interest in/passion for working with the disability community
- Self-driven and able to work independently
- Not required but preferred: Lived experience with disabilities and/or experience working with people with disabilities
How to Apply
Contact Leanna Namovic, Programs Director
Leanna@disabilityempowerment.org
204-445-1736
