AmeriCorps Positions in Texas - ASSET

[Community Development Banking List]

Original message from: jeanL@ucptexas.org

United Cerebal Palsy Texas is actively recruiting Americorps members for
service assignments with ASSET, an innovative education-based program
promoting the independence of people with disabilities
(http://asset.ucptexas.org <http://asset.ucptexas.org/> ). ASSET Americorps
members begin 11-month terms Oct. 1, 2009 at select community-based agencies
around Texas. Full-time members receive a living allowance of $11,400,
health care benefits, child care (if eligible), student loan forbearance,
and will be eligible for an education award in the amount of $4,725. For
more information on Americorps, visit
http://www.americorps.gov/for_indivi...why/index.asp. Begin the
application process at: http://my.americorps.gov/

Highlights of service position activities
Direct service to people with disabilities, known to us as consumers, in
small groups or one-on-one to set and move toward independence goals;
Organizing two (2) inclusive volunteer service projects in collaboration
with local corps members, 'Navigators';
Coordinating with statewide Navigators to develop and implement best
practices in meeting the housing, financial, and assistive technology needs
of individuals with disabilities.

Specific activities of direct service
Mentoring consumers around increasing economic independence through: goal
setting, action planning, identifying solutions to challenges, and
topic-specific training related to Assistive Technology, Affordable Housing
and Financial Literacy.
Designing and implementing instruction/training to small or large groups of
consumers in one of the three areas of ASSET's focus.
Attending community meetings as an ASSET representative for professional
development and networking purposes.
Representing ASSET at community events to expand program reach and market
program to consumers.
Planning and executing a volunteer/service project to meet ASSET performance
goals
Participating in two program-wide professional trainings held in Austin at
the start and midpoint of the year.
Engaging organizational specific activities, such as meetings and
presentations, geared to integrate the member with the service site agency
and its broader mission;

Expectations and Qualifications
Navigators are expected to be able to develop proficiency in common computer
office applications (eg Word, Outlook, etc); exhibit professional conduct in
and around the office; work as part of a team; keep organized records of
personal work; maintain confidentiality with sensitive records. For more
information, visit http://asset.ucptexas.org <http://asset.ucptexas.org/>

Minimum qualifications
Interest in empowering people with disabilities
Strong interpersonal communication skills
Interest in mentoring or teaching
Interest in ASSET focus area issues
Ability to work independently or on a team
Self-starter with good follow-through
Basic computing and internet research skills
High school diploma, GED, or intent to complete high school/obtain GED

Qualifications of exceptional candidates will have, additionally:
College degree or equivalent life experience
Experience with teaching, mentoring, and/or group facilitation
Experience working with people with disabilities or life experience with a
disability
Experience with affordable housing issues, financial literacy and/or
assistive technology.
Communication skills in Spanish and/or American Sign Language (ASL)

For more information, visit http://asset.ucptexas.org
<http://asset.ucptexas.org/>