Full-Time (40 Hours Week)

Summary of Position:

The Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) Teen and Adult Program Coordinator provides overall coordination of the MDSC Advocates in Motion (AIM) program and Annual Conference for Self-Advocates.

Advocates in Motion (AIM)

AIM provides fun, inclusive, interactive events each month for teens and young adults ages 13 to 22. Goals of the program include development of leadership and self-advocacy skills, forming meaningful relationships and peer connections, and exploring skills and interests. AIM events take place once a month on Sunday afternoons from September to June. These Sunday events include an engaging, educational workshop and a fitness activity. Additional social outings are offered on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the year. During this past year, program activities have been virtual and we look forward to a hybrid program model next year with both virtual and in-person formats based on safety guidelines.

Annual Conference for Self-Advocates

The Annual Conference for self-advocates takes place at the MDSC Annual Conference held in the month of March in Worcester, MA. Teens and adults ages 13 and up from across Massachusetts and beyond gather for a day of sharing, informing, making new friends, and celebrating self-advocacy.

The MDSC is a vibrant non-profit (501c3) organization whose mission is to enhance on a continuous basis the lives of individuals with Down syndrome through the education and support of people with Down syndrome, their families, their friends, their teachers, and the community as a whole and to ensure that all individuals with Down syndrome are valued, included, and live fulfilling lives in the community.

Major Responsibilities and Related Tasks:

  • Oversee all aspects of the Advocates in Motion program including planning and implementing monthly AIM activities (both virtual and in-person when it’s safe to do so), ensuring sufficient supervision for all activities
  • Develop program materials, including outreach flyers, applications, liability waivers, etc., seeking legal input when needed
  • Recruit participants and keep them informed by sending regular communications (through MDSC website, social media, and online newsletters) to AIM youth, adults and families, keeping them apprised of upcoming AIM activities, MDSC-wide events, and community opportunities
  • Work with the MDSC Management Team on outreach efforts to recruit, train and supervise volunteers
  • Develop collaborations with community organizations that offer programs & services of benefit to AIM program participants
  • Interface with the YMCA and other activity locations to plan logistics and safety protocols for all events
  • Document all aspects of the program including attendance, number of participants, activities, challenges, etc. to ensure that the program can continue to grow based on solid documentation
  • Collect, review, and maintain database of AIM participant registrations and documentation, respecting confidentiality of participant information; become knowledgeable about accommodations, special health care needs, allergies, and any special circumstances to ensure each participant’s needs are met
  • Write reports and articles to share information about the program with the MDSC membership, Board, and the general community
  • Work with the MDSC Management Team to organize AIM participation in all MDSC programs and events
  • Collaborate with the AIM Parent Group Facilitator to plan parent involvement in the AIM program
  • Develop evaluation instruments and implement program evaluation on a regular basis working closely with the Executive Director and AIM Task Force to constantly improve program and meet the participants’ needs
  • Coordinate all aspects of the Teen & Adult Workshops for the MDSC Annual Conference including developing curriculum and schedule of events for self-advocate participants; collection and review of participant support forms and waivers in advance of conference; recruitment of volunteers; overseeing all logistics in the self-advocate room on day of conference
  • Work with the MDSC Management Team to plan and support Self-Advocate Advisory Council activities, including every-other-month meetings and quarterly socials
  • Identify and supervise leadership opportunities for self-advocates to play a leadership role in MDSC activities.
  • Respond to teen and adult-related inquiries, providing resources and connections including extra support for individuals and families through the MDSC Cares program.
  • Keep abreast of key resources and programs that will benefit teens and adults and add these resources to the new MDSC Resource Library
  • Perform other duties as assigned in keeping with the growth and general responsibilities of the position

Supervision Received:

Works under the direction of the Executive Director

Supervision Exercised:

Supervises AIM part-time staff, volunteers and AIM participants during AIM activities, at Annual Conference, and at other MDSC events.

Training, Skills, and Experience:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, excellent organization and recordkeeping skills, and strong project management and technology skills necessary along with the ability to carry out activities in a creative and collaborative manner. Ability to build strong relationships with self-advocates, families and program partners is necessary. Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for the program. Ability to perform duties and represent the organization in a professional manner, ability to communicate and carry-out the mission of the organization, and ability to keep information regarding clients confidential are all essential.

First Aid and CPR certification will be required. Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or other related field plus 3-5 years of relevant experience highly preferred.

Salary:

Commensurate with experience with a benefits package.

Please email cover letter and resume to resumes@mdsc.org.