Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Caregiver/Family Advocacy and Support Services (CFASS) (Personal Services)

CFASS enhances the ability of a child/youth with a disability (developmental, physical, and/or behavioral) to function as part of a family unit and enhances the caregiver/family's ability to care for the child/youth in the home and community. CFASS is intended to assist the child/youth, caregiver/family, and collateral contacts in understanding and addressing the child/youth's needs related to their disability(ies). This service is focused on helping families understand and navigate available resources, offering emotional support, and providing advocacy to empower families in making informed decisions regarding the child/youth's care. The CFASS staff can serve as a bridge between families and service providers, ensuring the child/youth's needs are met and that families feel supported and informed.
Based on the individualized CFASS service plan, this service can include:

Offering educational, advocacy, and support resources to develop caregiver/family's ability to independently access community services and activities.
Supporting the caregiver/family's self-sufficiency in caring for the child/youth in the community.
Training the child/youth and/or family/caregiver on methods and behaviors to enable success in the community.
Training collateral contacts in the community about the child/youth's disability(ies) and related needs.
Self-advocacy training for the child/youth and/or caregiver/family, including during community transitions.

Responsibilities:

Advocacy and Support

Provide individualized support, based on the service plan, to the child/youth/caregiver/family, helping them understand resources, services, and options.
Act as an advocate on behalf of children/youth/caregivers/families, assisting them in navigating service systems, accessing resources, and communicating effectively with providers and collaterals in the community.
Help caregivers/families build skills in advocacy, problem-solving, and goal setting, empowering them to take an active role in the child/youth's care.

Communication and Documentation

Write a professional session note for each session detailing the services that were provided in support of the child/youth's goals, the child/youth's involvement and reactions to services, and describing the need for the continuation of services. Ensure session notes are submitted timely.
Communicate effectively with the family, caregivers, and the HCBS team, sharing observations, progress, and any concerns regarding the child/youth/caregiver/family's well-being.

Quality Improvement

Accept and apply constructive feedback from supervisors to enhance the quality of service delivery.
Attend training sessions to enhance skills and stay current with best practices in respite care and HCBS standards.

Qualifications:

Level 1

A high school diploma, high school equivalency diploma or a State Education Commencement Credential (SACC or CDOS)
Experience working with children/youth or related human service experience

Level 2

A bachelor's degree
Two years of experience working with children/youth or related human service experience

Skills and Competencies:

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to build trust and rapport with families.
Culturally and linguistically competent and sensitive. Willingness to learn about new cultures without judgement or bias.
Ability to stay calm and focused in stressful situations.
Compassionate, encouraging, and empathetic approach to supporting service recipients.
Ability to maintain professionalism, sound judgement and confidentiality in all situations.
Problem-solving skills and resourcefulness to assist families in overcoming barriers.
Accepts and applies constructive feedback from supervisors to enhance the quality of service delivery.

Pay Scale:

Level 1: $35/hour
Level 2: $50/hour