The Family Navigator with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) funded, Family Support Center (FSC) provides support to families of individuals living with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or autism living at home in the community.
Family Navigators are responsible for developing and implementing person centered goals. They collaborate with individuals, their caregivers and families to provide information and referral, service navigation, social and recreational opportunities, family training, life skills acquisition, and the administration of flexible funding. Navigators actively partner with caregivers and individuals in their homes and their communities.
This program is based out of Natick and Needham and provides services across the DDS Middlesex West Area Office, as well as the DDS Newton South Norfolk Area Office. Hours are flexible based on the needs of the families served. The Family Support Centers are open Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm. Weekend and evening hours are required for special events and programming.
Minimum Education Required : Bachelor’s Degree and experience in the Human Services field, or, five years’ experience working in the Human Services field.
Work with families to develop and implement a support plan in response to identified issues including, but not limited to, educational, social, vocational, behavioral, and clinical needs.
Assist families in navigating public assistance systems for benefits and other resources available to families.
Organize social and recreational events and programs for individuals and families.
Provide training to families on benefits and transition planning.
Draft Family Support Plans and Expenditure Plans based on program policies and procedures.