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Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging

Elder Advocate (Social Work)

Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, Cleveland, Ohio, us, 44101

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Job Type

Full-time

Description

This position is part of the RISE Model and National Replication Project. Benjamin Rose is proud to be one of three national replication sites selected to implement the RISE Model, a nationally recognized elder justice intervention. RISE supports older adults who have experienced or are at risk of elder abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation.

Originally developed and tested in Maine, the RISE Model integrates restorative practices, motivational interviewing, supported decision-making, and teaming. The approach has demonstrated positive outcomes in reducing harm, strengthening autonomy, and improving quality of life for older adults.

The RISE Model's guiding principles are to: Repair harm, Inspire change, Support connection, and Empower choice. Benjamin Rose is working in partnership with RISE Collaborative, Inc., which provides training, technical assistance, data analysis and ongoing fidelity support throughout this replication project.

Position Summary:

Provides direct, person-led support to older adults experiencing or at risk of elder abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation. Using the nationally recognized RISE Model, the Advocate partners with participants to address harm, inspire change, strengthen social connections, and support choice. Collaborates closely with Adult Protective Services (APS) and a range of community partners. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following description is a general representation of the key duties and responsibilities of the position.

Participant Support & Engagement

Accept and respond to referrals from APS. Build trusting, collaborative working relationships with older adults and, where appropriate, family members or other natural supports. Facilitate participant openness to change through motivational interviewing. Assist participants in identifying needs, strengths, and self-directed goals. Develop individualized service/action plans and safety plans that reflect participant priorities. Support decision-making, including with participants who may lack capacity, using structured tools and strategies. Coordinate teaming processes involving family, service providers, and other partners. Monitor and record participant progress toward self-identified goals. Advocacy & Service Linkage

Refer and connect participants to appropriate services (e.g., aging network services, housing, domestic violence/sexual assault services, behavioral health, caregiver supports). Advocate with agencies and individuals to ensure participant access to benefits and services. Assist with applications for services and benefits as needed. Work collaboratively and maintain strong relationships with APS, community-based partners, healthcare providers, and legal services. Collaboration & Systems Engagement

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case reviews. Attend relevant community meetings and represent the program as needed. Promote understanding of the RISE Model and person-led approaches in the community. Documentation & Reporting

Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential participant records. Complete data collection and internal tracking in alignment with program and funder requirements. Communicate case status and updates with the supervisory team. Professional Development & Model Fidelity

Attend required training in the RISE Model, Motivational Interviewing, Supported Decision Making, Teaming, and Restorative Justice. Apply model principles consistently to maintain fidelity. Participate in regular supervision and reflective practice. Maintain a growth mindset, including openness to repairing relationships and ongoing learning. Other tasks as assigned. Requirements

Qualifications:

A. Specific knowledge, training or skills required to perform the duties of this position including specific courses, training programs or required certifications.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position.

Bachelor's degree in social work, gerontology, public health, or a related field OR equivalent training and at least five years of relevant work experience. Experience providing direct support or advocacy, preferably with older adults. Understanding of trauma-informed care, person-led practices, and motivational interviewing. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively. Commitment to combating ageism and promoting participant dignity and autonomy. Knowledge of the aging network, social services, and community resources. Experience developing individualized service/action plans. Comfort using technology for remote work, including video conferencing and online data collection. Strong organizational skills, cultural humility, and professionalism. An insured car, good driving record and a valid Ohio driver's license are required. B.

Previous Experience that is necessary to qualify for this position:

Experience working with survivors of abuse, neglect, or exploitation preferred. Essential Physical Demands and Working Environment

(The physical demands and work environment described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.)

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit; talk, hear, reach, stoop, kneel, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, keyboard and telephone. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work. Light to moderate lifting is required, up to 15 pounds. Must be able to travel regularly within Cuyahoga County, including to client's homes. Ability to uphold the stress of traveling. Regular, predictable attendance is required. Moderate noise (i.e. business office with computers, phone, and printers, light traffic). Ability to work in a confined area. Ability to sit at a computer terminal for an extended period of time. Work environment is stressful at times.

REPORTS TO AND EVALUATED BY: Director of Community Services & Programs

Salary Description

$21.63 to $26.92