Help us reach our goal of raising $25,000!

Since 1974, Friendship, Inc. has been serving adults and children who are developmentally and physically challenged. We are recognized as a leader in our industry. The people we serve live  in small group homes or apartment settings, allowing for individualized attention and support.  We are committed to the people we serve.  This commitment challenges us to raise funds to not only sustain our outstanding supports, but to provide creative and innovative programs and services.

Friendship seeks to bridge where government-funded programs leave off and “living life” begins for the people we support. We rely on the generosity of businesses and individuals to help the people we serve achieve independence and realize their dreams.

By participating in this tournament as a golfer, sponsor or both – you will be allowing our friends with disabilities to live full, dignified, meaningful lives!

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

Registration
11:30 am
* * *

Shotgun Start 1:00 pm
* * *

Awards & Celebration following golf
* * *

$85 Entry Fee Includes:
– Green Fee
– Cart
– Range Balls
– Lunch

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

GOLD Sponsor – $1,000
–  Four complementary golfers
–  GOLD Sponsorship Signage
–  Recognition in advertising

SILVER Sponsor – $500
–  Two complementary golfers
–  SILVER Sponsorship Signage
–  Recognition in advertising

BRONZE Sponsor – $250
–  One complementary golfer
–  BRONZE Sponsorship Signage
–  Recognition in advertising

HOLE Sponsor – $100
–  Signage
–  Recognition in advertising

, April 28, 2012 at the beautiful downtown Fargo Theatre

At a mutually agreed upon date/time, the Battle of the Bands selection committee will visit all responding churches to listen to their band, either during a rehearsal or performance.  Please know a video-taped performance may be requested due to increasing interest in this event.  Recommendations and a final determination of which groups will participate will be finalized.  All churches will be notified of decision by February 28^th (2 months prior to actual event).

This event is an important fundraiser for Friendship, Inc.  A brochure is enclosed so you can read more about last year’s amazing event.

Interested in participating? Please complete the enclosed form and return it in the envelope provided (by Wednesday, November 1^st). If selected, your praise band will be heard by hundreds of people in the F-M area!  What a fabulous way to share your church’s music ministry with a captive audience at the Fargo Theatre while supporting FRIENDSHIP, INC!

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call Amelia Felz or Don Brunette at 701-235-8217. We look forward to seeing your church’s praise band on stage at the HISTORIC FARGO THEATRE on April 28^th, 2012!

 Warm Regards,
The Praise on the Prairie Steering Committee

 Dear Arc of Cass County:

                   I am nominating Gina Neary (DSP-Manager) for the Professional of the Year for her devotion and commitment to the people she supports at Friendship, Inc.

                   Gina has been employed by Friendship, Inc for the last 6 years.  Gina shows kindness, respect, and humanity on a daily basis to all the people she supports at Friendship.  Gina has formed strong bonds with the people she supports and their families within the last 6 years.  Many employees look to Gina for mentorship and leadership within the company on a daily basis because of her creative abilities and ideas.  If Gina has an idea or solution to an issue, she will use her creative abilities and head strong personality to ensure it is followed up on until completion.

                   Most recently, a person she supports was diagnosed with cancer for the 3^rd time.  Knowing this person well and understanding his dreams, Gina was determined to make one big dream come true for this person before his treatment began.  Gina, with the help of other Friendship employees were able to raise enough money in roughly 4 days to send this person to Disney World in Florida for a week-long vacation.  Gina orchestrated fundraising, newspaper and radio interviews, and word of mouth donations to raise the money needed.  He was able to fly first class, eat at the best restaurants, and meet all the superhero’s he has admired his entire life.  This is a big example of the small gestures of compassion Gina shows every day through her work with the people she supports.   

                   Gina goes out of her way to ensure the people she supports are living happily and to their fullest potential.  This includes working long hours and completing job duties that are outside of her job description. Gina knows the people she supports well, inside and out.  She digs deep into their lives to assist them in having everything they would need on a daily basis, as well as working towards their long term goals.

                   Please consider Gina Neary for the Professional of the Year.  In my years of employment I have worked with Gina as my supervisor, mentor, and most recently colleague.  She is one of the amazing people that agencies like Friendship, Inc are lucky to have.  She truly cares about the people she supports, regardless of their abilities.  Gina goes above and beyond in all aspects of her job; a prime example for others working with people with disabilities.

Tricia Larson

 Dreams come true for everyone but for Ward, it really did.  On August 9^th Ward had a dream come true that he will always remember.  On that Tuesday afternoon, he had the opportunity to spend time with some special people.  Five sailors, dressed in their blue-and-gray Navy working uniforms, made a special visit to Ward’s condominium to scrub, wax and vacuum his pride and joy: a 1979, baby-blue Larson boat. They also checked out the boat’s 45 Mercury motor to make sure it was in ship-shape. The sailors performed this community service as part of Fargo Navy Week, a week-long event designed to raise awareness of that military branch and its contributions to the home front. When the sailors were with Ward he was able to hang out with the naval officers, show off his boat and practice casting his fishing rod. Ward’s love of fishing and people in uniform may be a remembrance of his late father, who served in the Navy during World War II and later worked for the Minnesota Highway Department.

When this opportunity was announced, staff who work with Ward knew that he would just love to do this.  They applied for the Sailors to help Ward and once it was granted, the plans started to come together.  Ward and staff arranged all the items that they would need with the most important being a camera.  Ward was so excited and proud to have help cleaning his boat, especially with these sailors.

 Also this summer Ward has been able to take the boat out on the lake a few times, including once for a friend’s birthday party.  When he can’t be on his boat, he’ll still fish from the shore.  Ward just loves fishing and hanging out with his friends.  He is a man’s man! 

 To see Ward so happy and proud was so special to everyone who was involved.  We are so blessed to have Ward and all the people we support in our lives.  We continue to learn through this opportunity and many others that dreams really do come true for people.  Together, we can make a difference in the lives of others and support them to make their dreams come true!

To see the entire Friendship COnnection Newsletter click here: Newsletter-Friendship_W12

All employees of Friendship take pride in learning about what is most important in the lives of people receiving services and providing and/or developing supports to help them achieve their personal priorities. We are responsible for working with people to develop and implement their Individualized Program Plan (IPP) by demonstrating the values outlined in Friendship’s Mission Statement and Corporate Culture. 

CORE VALUES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

It is the firm conviction of the Board and Management of Friendship, Inc. and of our sponsoring organization, Catholic Health Initiatives, that one of the principal responsibilities of each employee is to actively contribute to a workplace environment clearly and explicitly based on the Christian values of willing service, kindness and respect for those we serve. This includes an insistence on the worth and dignity of each person and a readiness to actively commit to a job performance style based on these values. To that end we pledge ourselves to a behavioral style based on the core values of Compassion, Reverence, Integrity and Excellence as an integral element of the quality of performance we expect and require of one another. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

LEARNING ABOUT THE PERSON SERVED

• Use the Personal Outcome Measures, Outcomes Biography Assessment, Personal Profile, etc. to learn about each person’s goals and dreams.
• Identify and establish services and supports needed to assist the person to achieve his/her goals and dreams.
• Learn about the life experiences (work, residential, social, etc.) of the person and assist him/her to expand his/her experiences through education and a variety of community experiences.
• Learn what barriers hinder the accomplishment of the person’s goals and dreams. Utilize current services and supports and/or advocate for additional services and supports as needed to overcome the barriers.
• Identify the person’s strengths for achieving his/her priorities and assist the person to use his/her strengths to achieve his/her goals and dreams.

INTEGRATION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

• Learn about people’s vocational, community and social interests and provide the necessary support to assist the person to develop his/her interest in an integrated environment.
• Support and assist people to remain connected to their natural supports (family, close friends, boyfriend, girlfriend, etc.).
• Support and assist people to develop and maintain a network of friends/relationships.
• Support and assist people to be active members of the community (i.e., volunteer work, belonging to clubs/organizations, participating in church activities, etc.) by emphasizing choices and options.

SYSTEM ADVOCACY

• Support and assist people to direct their services and make informed choices in all aspects of their life.
• Be an advocate for people and teach members of the community to treat people we support with dignity and respect by modeling positive attitudes and respectful communication and interactions.
• Assist people to become personal advocates.
• Advocate with employers, service coordinators, families and other stakeholders to develop needed supports and services for people we support

HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE OF THE PERSON SERVED

Oversee and develop supports for people…

• To have a safe environment in which to live and work, free of abuse, neglect and exploitation.
• To look their best by providing needed assistance to complete hygiene, grooming and clothing care tasks.
• To learn to maintain a clean living/work environment.
• To learn about nutritional recommendations through meal planning and preparation.
• To learn about and practice safety awareness in all of their environments (living, work/daytime and leisure activities).
• To learn about their personal finances and budgeting skills.
• To learn about and exercise their rights.
• To learn about fair treatment and to understand due process if s/he feels that treatment is not fair.
• To learn about and become involved in their personal health needs.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

Employees of Friendship, Inc. perform a variety of duties that assist and support people to become more involved in the community. While some people require very little assistance or support, others may require more. The level of need varies for each person; the list of duties below is a partial list. Additional duties will be identified as services and supports are discovered/learned about through each person’s Individualized Program Plan (IPP) and/or Individualized Education Plan.

Development, implementation, and monitoring of Program Plans:

• Facilitate IPP team meetings.
• Attend IEP team meetings.
• Coordinate and/or complete assessments.
• Oversee completion of annual social histories.
• Oversee completion of release of information forms with signatures.
• Oversee the accuracy of team meeting minutes.
• Ensure the accurate completion of training/support methods following IPP/team meetings.
• Complete initial program training with team members.
• Coordinate program training with the Manager.
• Complete comprehensive reviews as determined by the person’s team.
• Provide on-site monitoring/observation of program implementation in all environments.
• Present behavior intervention plans to the Behavior Intervention Committee as assigned.
• Present human rights forms to the Human Rights Committee as assigned.

Health care supports:

• Learn about the best possible health needs (including physical and mental health) for the person you are supporting, including knowledge of medications taken by the person and the effects of the medications.
• Accompany people to medical appointments and provide support during medical procedures as needed.
• Complete follow-up recommendations (i.e., order medications, complete medical forms, update Medication Administrations Records) as per department policy.

Financial management of department:

• Oversee department financial budget.
• Oversee/negotiate individual contracts through the Department of Human Services.
• Oversee peoples continued eligibility for benefits (i.e., housing/rent assistance, phone assistance, food stamps, social security, etc.)
• Oversee the completion and filing of peoples’ income taxes.
• Oversee/complete monthly balancing of checkbook/savings accounts with bank statements as assigned.
• Monitor and approve employees’ overtime.
• Maintain programs at 95% occupancy.
• Approve expenditures of $50.00-$200.00.

Departmental enhancement:

• Attend supervisory meetings as scheduled
• Attend individual apartment meetings as requested/needed.
• Participate in reviews for accreditation.
• Participate/facilitate organizational activities as assigned (i.e., Supervisory Review Committee, Operational Team, Quality Enhancement Team, Regional Referral, Abuse/Neglect/Exploitation Committee, General Staff, action teams and other standing committees as developed).
• Follow established call-in and leave request procedures per agency policy.
• Maintain confidentiality of information about people served, customers, records, personal practices, internal practices, co-workers and Friendship’s business affairs.
• Accurately and timely complete PTO/STD Usage Form For Exempt Employees.
• Participate in the A/N/E on-call.
• Participate in department on-call as needed or requested.

Staff supervision and development:

• Provide direct supervision of Manager positions.
• Facilitate the employee selection process of Manager positions.
• Oversee the on-site orientation process with new Managers.
• Coach employees to facilitate performance improvement.
• Oversee the completion of Coordinators and Supervisors performance evaluations.
• Conduct Managers performance evaluations on time.
• Review/approve time sheets of Managers and/or department employees.
• Oversee the completion of training requirements (modules, inservices, etc.) of department employees.

ONGOING EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• Successfully complete module training as required.
• Attendance at and successful completion of all required employee orientation and training requirements.
• Maintain current CPR, First Aid and Confrontation Avoidance certification.
• Certification for medication administration and administering according to established procedures may be required.
• Attend training activities for professional development as assigned

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree and verified qualification as a Qualified Mental Retardation Professional (QMRP) per Center for Medicare/Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines.
• At least two years supervisory experience and extensive direct program experience in serving people with developmental disabilities including, but not limited to services, standards and staff training.
• Familiarity with business use of computers.
• Current valid driver’s license.
• Access to a licensed vehicle and proof of motor vehicle liability insurance may be required.
• Meet the requirements of a background check.
• Completion of a health clearance within the first 40 hours of orientation for new employees.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Lifting and/or moving people/supplies weighing 50-100 pounds using proper lifting procedures may be required. This may include repetitive lifting and/or moving.
• Ability to operate a variety of different sized vehicles may be required.
• Driving in all weather conditions and safe operation of a vehicle is expected, including the use of seat belts.
• May be exposed to common household cleaning chemicals.
• May be exposed to blood and bodily fluids. (See Safety Manual for exposure risk.)
• Providing physical assistance to people served. Duties may include, but are not limited to, lifting, assisting at meals, toileting, transferring to and from wheelchairs, beds, etc.
• Physical intervention with people with challenging behaviors may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENTS

We realize that Friendship, Inc. exists primarily for the benefit of those served and, whenever necessary, personal satisfaction will be held second to that. This may mean, from time to time, willingly accepting extra assignments, additional hours, temporary position transfers, a change in vacation plans, etc. in order to meet the needs of those we serve.

• Intermediate Care Facility for the Mentally Retarded (ICF/MR)
  Four or more people living in a group situation and receive 24-hour staffing levels. Each person receives a continuous active treatment program that includes training, health services and other related services to help the person achieve as much self-determination and independence as possible.
• Minimally Supervised Living Arrangement (MSLA)
  People live in their own homes/apartments with a roommate and share 24-hour staffing levels with another home/apartment setting that is close by. Each person receives a continuous active treatment program that includes training, health services and other related services to help the person achieve as much self-determination and independence as possible.
• Family and Community Living (ISLA, Respite, Family Support)
• ISLA (Individualized Supported Living Arrangement): Supports people who choose to live independently in apartments or their own homes. People may receive as little as five hours of support per week or as much as 24 hours per day.
• Respite and Family Support: Supports families with children who have special needs and continue to live in the family home.
• Vocational Services (Adult Day and Day Supports)
• Adult Day: Supports people who want to focus on recreation and leisure activities versus employment.
• Day Supports: Supports people who want to increase their vocational skills and prepare for having a job in the community. This is accomplished through community job sites and in-house contracts.
• Supported Employment/Extended Services (SEP/ES)
• Supported Employment: Focuses on the placement of a person into a competitive, community-based job of their choice with on-the-job training.
• Extended Services: Once a person has obtained some independence on the job, this service provides ongoing supports to both the employer and the employee to insure continued success.

• Bachelor’s degree and verified qualifications as a Qualified Mental Retardation Professional (QMRP) per Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) guidelines.
• Two years supervisory experience and extensive direct program experience in serving people with developmental disabilities including, but not limited to, services, standards and staff training.
• Demonstrated ability to provide leadership and organizational skills and familiarity with business use of computers.

SCOPE OF WORK:

The Director of Vocational Services provides leadership to the division utilizing a team approach to management consistent with the pursuit of continuous quality improvement. Friendship, Inc. follows the Personal Outcome Measures set by The Council on Quality and Leadership in Supports for People with Disabilities. Each person employed in our company enhances the lives of the people served by embracing these outcomes. Everyone’s supports are individualized for their needs and desires. This position is essential in achieving outcomes for people. This position is primarily responsible for assessing and enhancing program coordination and implementation within assigned programs, serving as primary advocate for those individuals served in their unit, developing and implementing divisional planning, overseeing staff supervision and development, and assisting with financial planning and monitoring. The employee in this position is expected to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the mission of Friendship, Inc. by conducting one’s self in a professional and respectful manner and fully embracing the Core Values of the organization. The values of collaboration and confidentiality must be enthusiastically pursued. This position is expected to adhere to and, when appropriate, apply all the policies and procedures of Friendship, Inc. A true commitment to mission should further be demonstrated by willing and active participation in meetings and training activities, by pursuing continuous quality improvement and by, from time to time, readily accepting other assignments and responsibilities as may be required.

ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Implements the Personal Outcome Measures.

1. Establishes a working knowledge of the outcomes.
2. Understands the seven different support areas.
3. Documents in the appropriate section in the chart notes.

B. Facilitates in the development, implementation and monitoring of individual program plans.

1. Identifies with team the needed assessments and secures those assessments.
2. Facilitates interdisciplinary team meetings (for home consumers only).
3. Completes training of Individual Program Plan (for home consumers only).
4. Follows up on team meeting as needed (for home consumers only).

C. Coordinates divisional enhancement.

1. Participates in regional referral process.
2. Assures communication between staff within the division and throughout the company.
3. Oversees reviews by regulatory agencies.
4. Protects rights of individuals.
5. Oversees job development activities for Day Supports.
6. Carries out community education for the division.

D. Leads staff supervision and development.

1. Supervises Program Managers.
2. Implements performance protocol.
3. Training.
4. Supervises the scheduling activities.

E. Participates in financial management of programs.

1. Carries out departmental budgets.
2. Coordinates departmental budgeting.

F. Specific physical demands

Please contact Friendship, Inc. for a list of specific physical requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree and verified qualifications as a Qualified Mental Retardation Professional (QMRP) per Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) guidelines.
• Two years supervisory experience and extensive direct program experience in serving people with developmental disabilities including, but not limited to, services, standards and staff training.
• Demonstrated ability to provide leadership and organizational skills and familiarity with business use of computers.
• Current valid driver’s license.

SCOPE OF WORK:

The Administrator provides leadership to the division utilizing a team approach to management consistent with the pursuit of continuous quality improvement. Friendship, Inc. follows the Personal Outcome Measures set by The Council on Quality and Leadership in Supports for People with Disabilities. Each person employed in our company enhances the lives of the people served by embracing these outcomes. Everyone’s supports are individualized for their needs and desires. This positionis essential in achieving outcomes for people. This position is primarily responsible for assessing and enhancing program coordination and implementation within assigned programs, serving as primary advocate for those individuals served in their unit, developing and implementing divisional planning, overseeing staff supervision and development, and assisting with financial planning and monitoring. The employee in this position is expected to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the mission of Friendship by conducting one’s self in a professional and respectful manner. The values of collaboration and confidentiality must be enthusiastically pursued. This position is expected to adhere to and, when appropriate, apply all the policies and procedures of Friendship, Inc. A true commitment to mission and Friendship’s Core Values should further be demonstrated by willing and active participation in meetings and training activities, by pursuing quality improvement and by, from time to time, readily accepting other assignments and responsibilities as may be required.

ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Implements the Personal Outcome Measures

1. Establishs a working knowledge of the outcomes.
2. Understands the seven different support areas.
3. Documents in the appropriate section in the chart notes.

B. Facilitates in the development, implementation and monitoring of Individual Program Plans (IPPs).

1. Coordinates and/or completes assessments.
2. Facilitates interdisciplinary team meetings.
3. Supervises the implementation of the IPP.
4. Completes QMRP responsibilities.

C. Coordinates divisional enhancement.

1. Assures communication between staff.
2. Participates in reviews by The Council and HCFA.
3. Participates in organizational activities as requested.
4. Attends training activities for professional development.
5. Participates in the referral process.
6. Protects rights of individuals.

E. Participates in financial management of programs.

1. Carries out departmental budgets.

F. Specific physical demands.

Please contact Friendship, Inc. for a list of specific physical requirements.

• A Bachelor’s degree or combination of post-secondary education and work experience equal to four years.
• One year experience in working with people with disabilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of people, good organizational skills and ability to provide leadership.
• Current valid driver’s license, access to a licensed vehicle, and proof of motor vehicle liability insurance will be required.

SCOPE OF WORK:

The Employment Specialist assists the Director of Supported Employment/Extended Services in various aspects of the provision of SEP/ES. Friendship, Inc. follows the Personal Outcome Measures set by The Council on Quality and Leadership in Supports for People with Disabilities. Each person employed in our company enhances the lives of the people served by embracing these outcomes. Everyone’s supports are individualized for their needs and desires. This position is essential in achieving outcomes for people. Specifically, this position is responsible for consumer job development focusing on the re-employment of Supported Employment Program and Extended Services consumer, completion of pre-employment screening and assessments, participation in consumer’s interdisciplinary team meetings, and completion of record keeping follow-up services for Extended Services consumers and advocates for the consumer at the job site with the employer and co-workers. The person in this position is expected to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the mission of Friendship, Inc. by conducting one’s self in a professional and respectful manner. The values of collaboration and confidentiality must be enthusiastically pursued. This position is expected to adhere to, and when appropriate, apply all of the policies and procedures of Friendship, Inc. A true commitment to the mission should be further demonstrated by willing and active participation in meetings and training activities, by pursuing continuous quality improvement and by, from time to time, readily accepting other assignments and responsibilities as may be required.

ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Implement the Personal Outcome Measures.

1. Establishes a working knowledge of the outcomes.
2. Understands the seven different support areas.
3. Documents in the appropriate section in the chart notes.

B. Completes job development, assessment and placement activities focusing on the re-employment of Supported Employment Program/Extended Services consumers.

1. Completes assessments of consumers’ work interests and skills.
2. Writes assessment summaries prior to the team meetings.
3. Participates in the interdisciplinary team process.
4. Develops potential job placement sites for consumers.
5. Develops re-employment plans.
6. Leads job club activities for consumers on re-employment plans.
7. Develops resumes for consumers.
8. Lifting and/or moving 50-100 pounds may be required.
9. Physical intervention with individuals with challenging behaviors may be required.
10. Certification for medication administration and administering according to established procedures may be required.

C. Participate in departmental enhancement.

1. Attends department staff meetings.
2. Attends required inservices for professional development.
3. Identifies areas for improvements and makes recommendations.
4. Assists with the development of placement projections.
5. Assists with the development of department improvement plans.
6. Assists with the development of public relations material.
7. Assists with speaking to business and professional groups promoting Supported Employment.

D. Assists with staff supervision.

1. Assists with the interviewing and hiring of staff.
2. Assists with the performance evaluation development in a timely manner.
3. Completes performance evaluations for assigned staff.
4. Coaches staff to facilitate performance improvements.
5. Assists with orientation of new staff.
6. Develops work responsibility schedules for assigned staff.
7. Assists with leadership of staff meetings.

E. Carries out daily operational tasks of designed program(s).

1. Completes required record keeping (MIS) for assigned consumers.
2. Completes and monitors completion of monthly reviews.
3. Learns requirements of job for consumer.
4. Provides job coaching to consumers.
5. Substitutes for job coaches.
6. Maintains communication with employers.
7. Facilitates positive interaction with consumers and co-workers.
8. Monitors fading of job coach.

All employees of Friendship take pride in learning about what is most important in the lives of people receiving services and providing and/or developing supports to help them achieve their personal priorities. We are responsible for working with people to develop and implement their Individualized Program Plan by demonstrating the values outlined in Friendship’s Mission Statement and Corporate Culture.

CORE VALUES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

It is the firm conviction of the Board and Management of Friendship, Inc. and of our sponsoring organization, Catholic Health Initiatives, that one of the principal responsibilities of each employee is to actively contribute to a workplace environment clearly and explicitly based on the Christian values of willing service, kindness and respect for those we serve. This includes an insistence on the worth and dignity of each person and a readiness to actively commit to a job performance style based on these values. To that end we pledge ourselves to a behavioral style based on the core values of Compassion, Reverence, Integrity, and Excellence as an integral element of the quality of performance we expect and require of one another.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

LEARNING ABOUT THE PERSON SERVED

• Use the Personal Outcome Measures, Outcomes Biography Assessment, Personal Profile, etc. to learn about each person’s goals and dreams.
• Identify and establish services and supports needed to assist the person to achieve his/her goals and dreams.
• Learn about the life experiences (work, residential, social, etc) of the person and assist him/her to expand his/her experiences through education and a variety of community experiences.
• Learn what barriers hinder the accomplishment of the person’s goals and dreams. Utilize current services and supports and/or advocate for additional services and supports as needed to overcome the barriers.
• Identify the person’s strengths for achieving his/her priorities and assist the person to use his/her strengths to achieve his/her goals and dreams.

INTEGRATION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

• Learn about people’s vocational, community and social interests and provide the necessary support to assist the person to develop his/her interest in an integrated environment.
• Support and assist people to remain connected to their natural supports (family, close friends, boyfriend, girlfriend, etc.).
• Support and assist people to develop and maintain a network of friends/relationships.
• Support and assist people to be active members of the community (i.e., volunteer work, belonging to clubs/organizations, participating in church activities, etc.) by emphasizing choices and options.

SYSTEM ADVOCACY

• Support and assist people to direct their services and make informed choices in all aspects of their life.
• Be an Advocate for people and teach members of the community to treat people we support with dignity and respect by modeling positive attitudes and respectful communication and interactions.
• Assist people to become personal advocates.
• Advocate with employers, service coordinators, families, and other stakeholders to develop needed supports and services for people we support.

HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE OF THE PERSON SERVED

Assist and support people:

• To have a safe environment in which to live and work, free of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• To look their best by providing needed assistance to complete hygiene, grooming, and clothing care tasks.
• To learn to maintain a clean living/work environment.
• To learn about and practice safety awareness in all of their environments (living, work/daytime and leisure activities).
• To learn about their personal finances and budgeting skills.
• To learn about and exercise their rights.
• To learn about fair treatment and to understand due process if s/he feels that treatment is not fair.
• To learn about and become involved in their personal health needs.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

Employees of Friendship, Inc. perform a variety of duties that assist and support people to become more involved in the community. While some people require very little assistance or support, others may require more. The level of need varies for each person; the list of duties below is a partial list. Additional duties will be identified as services and supports are discovered/learned about through each person’s Individualized Program Plan (IPP) and Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Development, implementation and monitoring of Program Plans:

• Attend team meetings as requested.
• Complete assessments as requested.
• Develop and obtain signatures for release of information forms as assigned.
• Complete accurate team meeting minutes as assigned.
• Update, schedules, and route behavior intervention plans to Behavior Intervention Committee as assigned.
• Complete annual Social Histories as assigned.
• Develop training/support methods following IPP/team meetings as assigned.
• Coordinate program training with the QMRP.
• Complete on-site monitoring of program implementation.
• Complete/supervise completion of monthly reviews as assigned.
• Accurately and timely enter written information in the records, charts and files of people served.
• Provide/arrange transportation of people served as needed.

Health care supports:

• Learn about the best possible health needs (including physical and mental health) for the person you are supporting, including knowledge of medications taken by the person and the effects of the medications.
• Accompany people to medical appointments and provide support during medical procedures as needed.
• Complete follow-up recommendations (i.e., order medications, complete medical forms, update Medication Administrations Records) as per department policy.
• Complete the first three medication observations with new employees as assigned.
• Obtain from the pharmacy and ensure the accuracy of Medication Administration Records (MAR) prior to routing as assigned.
• Inform pharmacy of medication changes as needed.

Financial management of department:

• Review department financial statements.
• Approve expenditures up to $50.00.
• Ensure the accurate completion of monthly financial update forms as assigned.
• Send financial information to guardians as requested.
• Ensure people maintain eligibility for benefits (i.e., housing/rent assistance, phone assistance, food stamps, social security, etc.).
• Ensure income tax returns are completed and filed as needed.
• Oversee investigation of social security discrepancies.
• Complete the monthly balancing of checkbook/savings accounts with bank statements as assigned.

Departmental enhancement:

• Facilitate supervisory and substitute meetings as assigned.
• Attend individual apartment meetings as assigned.
• Coordinate additional inservices/training for employees per department’s need.
• Follow established call-in and leave request procedures per department policy.
• Maintain confidentiality of information about people served, customers, records, personal practices, internal practices, co-workers and Friendship’s business affairs.
• Participate in organizational activities as assigned (i.e., Operational Team, Quality Enhancement Team, Environmental Health and Safety Committee, General Staff and other standing committees and action teams as developed).
• Complete/route monthly update of department’s on-call list, phone list and newsletter as assigned.
• Accurately and timely complete time sheets.
• Complete direct service hours as assigned.
• Participate in reviews for accreditation.

Staff supervision and development:

• Provide direct supervision of Coordinator and Supervisor positions.
• Facilitate the employee selection process.
• Oversee the on-site orientation process with new employees.
• Coach employees to facilitate performance improvement.
• Oversee the timely completion of Coordinators performance evaluations.
• Conduct Supervisors performance evaluations on time.
• Ensure the development/monitoring of department schedule.
• Maintain an updated employee roster.
• Review and approve Coordinators and Supervisors time sheets for accuracy.
• Monitor training requirements (modules, inservices, etc.) of department employees.
• Participate in the on-call system as assigned.

ONGOING EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• Successfully complete module training as required.
• Attendance at and successful completion of all required employee orientation and training requirements.
• Maintain current CPR, First Aid and Confrontation Avoidance certification.
• Certification for medication administration and administering according to established procedures.
• Attend training activities for professional development, as assigned

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in human services field preferred but may not be required.
• At least one year supervisory experience.
• Two years experience working in program(s) serving people with disabilities.
• Current valid driver’s license, access to a licensed vehicle and proof of motor vehicle liability insurance may be required.
• Meet the requirements of a background check.
• Completion of a health clearance within the first 40 hours of orientation.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Lifting and/or moving people/supplies weighing 50-100 pounds using proper lifting procedures may be required. This may include repetitive lifting and/or moving.
• Ability to operate a variety of different sized vehicles may be required.
• Driving in all weather conditions and safe operation of a vehicle is expected, including the use of seat belts.
• May be exposed to common household cleaning chemicals.
• May be exposed to blood and bodily fluids. (See Safety Manual for exposure risk).
• Providing physical assistance to people served. Duties may include, but are not limited to, lifting, assisting at meals, toileting, transferring to and from wheelchairs, beds, etc.
• Physical intervention with people with challenging behaviors may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENTS

We realize that Friendship, Inc. exists primarily for the benefit of those served and, whenever necessary, personal satisfaction will be held second to that. This may mean, from time to time, willingly accepting extra assignments, additional hours, temporary position transfers, a change in vacation plans, etc. in order to meet the needs of those we serve.

• Intermediate Care Facility for the Mentally Retarded (ICF/MR)

Four or more people live in a group situation and receive 24-hour staffing levels. Each person receives a continuous active treatment program that includes training, health services and other related services to help the person achieve as much self-determination and independence as possible.

• Minimally Supervised Living Arrangement (MSLA)

People live in their own homes/apartments with a roommate and share 24-hour staffing levels with another home/apartment setting that is close by. Each person receives a continuous active treatment program that includes training, health services and other related services to help the person achieve as much self-determination and independence as possible.

• Family and Community Living (ISLA, Respite, Family Support)

ISLA (Individualized Supported Living Arrangement): Supports people who choose to live independently in apartments or their own homes. People may receive as little as five hours of support per week or as much as 24 hours per day.

Respite and Family Support: Supports families with children who have special needs and continue to live in the family home.

• Vocational Services (Adult Day and Day Supports)

Adult Day: Supports people who want to focus on recreation and leisure activities versus employment.

Day Supports: Supports people who want to increase their vocational skills and prepare for having a job in the community. This is accomplished through community job sites and in-house contracts.

• Supported Employment/Extended Services (SEP/ES)

Supported Employment: Focuses on the placement of a person into a competitive, community-based job of their choice with on-the-job training.

Extended Services: Once a person has obtained some independence on the job, this service provides ongoing supports to both the employer and the employee to insure continued

All employees of Friendship take pride in learning about what is most important in the lives of people receiving services and providing and/or developing supports to help them achieve their personal priorities. We are responsible for working with people to develop and implement their Individualized Program Plan by demonstrating the values outlined in Friendship’s Mission Statement and Corporate Culture.

CORE VALUES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

It is the firm conviction of the Board and Management of Friendship, Inc. and of our sponsoring organization, Catholic Health Initiatives, that one of the principal responsibilities of each employee is to actively contribute to a workplace environment clearly and explicitly based on the Christian values of willing service, kindness and respect for those we serve. This includes an insistence on the worth and dignity of each person and a readiness to actively commit to a job performance style based on these values. To that end we pledge ourselves to a behavioral style based on the core values of Compassion, Reverence, Integrity, and Excellence as an integral element of the quality of performance we expect and require of one another.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

LEARNING ABOUT THE PERSON SERVED

• Use the Personal Outcome Measures, Outcomes Biography Assessment, Personal Profile, etc. to learn about each person’s goals and dreams.
• Identify and establish services and supports needed to assist the person to achieve his/her goals and dreams.
• Learn about the life experiences (work, residential, social, etc) of the person and assist him/her to expand his/her experiences through education and a variety of community experiences.
• Learn what barriers hinder the accomplishment of the person’s goals and dreams. Utilize current services and supports and/or advocate for additional services and supports as needed to overcome the barriers.
• Identify the person’s strengths for achieving his/her priorities and assist the person to use his/her strengths to achieve his/her goals and dreams.

INTEGRATION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT

• Learn about people’s vocational, community and social interests and provide the necessary support to assist the person to develop his/her interest in an integrated environment.
• Support and assist people to remain connected to their natural supports (family, close friends, boyfriend, girlfriend, etc.).
• Support and assist people to develop and maintain a network of friends/relationships.
• Support and assist people to be active members of the community (i.e., volunteer work, belonging to clubs/organizations, participating in church activities, etc.) by emphasizing choices and options.

SYSTEM ADVOCACY

• Support and assist people to direct their services and make informed choices in all aspects of their life.
• Be an Advocate for people and teach members of the community to treat people we support with dignity and respect by modeling positive attitudes and respectful communication and interactions.
• Assist people to become personal advocates.
• Advocate with employers, service coordinators, families, and other stakeholders to develop needed supports and services for people we support.

HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE OF THE PERSON SERVED

Assist and support people:

• To have a safe environment in which to live and work, free of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• To look their best by providing needed assistance to complete hygiene, grooming, and clothing care tasks.
• To learn to maintain a clean living/work environment.
• To learn about nutritional recommendations through meal planning and preparation.
• To learn about and practice safety awareness in all of their environments (living, work/daytime and leisure activities).
• To learn about their personal finances and budgeting skills.
• To learn about and exercise their rights.
• To learn about fair treatment and to understand due process if s/he feels that treatment is not fair.
• To learn about and become involved in their personal health needs.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

Employees of Friendship, Inc. perform a variety of duties that assist and support people to become more involved in the community. While some people require very little assistance or support, others may require more. The level of need varies for each person; the list of duties below is a partial list. Additional duties will be identified as services and supports are discovered/learned about through each person’s Individualized Program Plan (IPP) and Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Development, implementation, and monitoring of Program Plans:

• Attend team meetings as requested.
• Complete assessments as requested.
• Develop training/support methods following IPP/team meetings as assigned.
• Coordinate program training with the QMRP.
• Complete/supervise completion of monthly reviews as assigned.
• Accurately and timely enter written information in the records, charts and files of people served.
• Provide/arrange transportation of people served as needed.

Health care supports:

• Learn about the best possible health needs (including physical and mental health) for the person you are supporting, including knowledge of medications taken by the person and the effects of the medications.
• Accompany people to medical appointments and provide support during medical procedures as needed.
• Complete follow-up recommendations (i.e., order medications, complete medical forms, update Medication Administrations Records) as per department policy.
• Monitor medication passes as assigned.

Departmental enhancement:

• Conduct departmental meetings.
• Follow established call-in and leave request procedures per department policy.
• Maintain confidentiality of information about people served, customers, records, personal practices, internal practices, co-workers and Friendship’s business affairs.
• Participate in organizational activities as assigned (i.e., Operational Team, Quality Enhancement Team, Environmental Health and Safety Committee, General Staff and other standing committees and action teams as developed).
• Accurately and timely complete time sheets.
• Complete direct service hours as required.
• Participate in reviews for accreditation and licensure.

Staff supervision and development:

• Provide direct supervision of Coordinator and Supervisor positions.
• Facilitate the employee selection process.
• Oversee the on-site orientation process with new employees.
• Coach employees to facilitate performance improvement.
• Oversee the timely completion of Coordinators performance evaluations.
• Conduct Supervisors performance evaluations on time.
• Ensure the development/monitoring of department schedule.
• Monitor employees’ training.
• Review and approve Coordinators and Supervisors time sheets for accuracy.
• Monitor training requirements (modules, inservices, etc.) of department employees.
• Participate in the on-call system as assigned.

Financial management of department:

• Review department financial statements.
• Approve expenditures up to $50.00.
• Monitor capital expenditure needs.
• Oversee people served financial expenditures/budgets.
• Manage department’s petty cash.

ONGOING EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• Successfully complete module training as required.
• Attendance at and successful completion of all required employee orientation and training requirements.
• Maintain current CPR, First Aid and Confrontation Avoidance certification.
• Certification for medication administration and administering according to established procedures.
• Attend training activities for professional development, as assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in human services field preferred but may not be required.
• At least one year supervisory experience.
• Two years experience working in program(s) serving people with disabilities.
• Current valid driver’s license, access to a licensed vehicle and proof of motor vehicle liability insurance may be required.
• Meet the requirements of a background check.
• Completion of a health clearance within the first 40 hours of orientation.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Lifting and/or moving people/supplies weighing 50-100 pounds using proper lifting procedures may be required. This may include repetitive lifting and/or moving.
• Ability to operate a variety of different sized vehicles may be required.
• Driving in all weather conditions and safe operation of a vehicle is expected, including the use of seat belts.
• May be exposed to common household cleaning chemicals.
• May be exposed to blood and bodily fluids. (See Safety Manual for exposure risk).
• Providing physical assistance to people served. Duties may include, but are not limited to, lifting, assisting at meals, toileting, transferring to and from wheelchairs, beds, etc.
• Physical intervention with people with challenging behaviors may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENTS

We realize that Friendship, Inc. exists primarily for the benefit of those served and, whenever necessary, personal satisfaction will be held second to that. This may mean, from time to time, willingly accepting extra assignments, additional hours, temporary position transfers, a change in vacation plans, etc. in order to meet the needs of those we serve.

• Intermediate Care Facility for the Mentally Retarded (ICF/MR)

Four or more people live in a group situation and receive 24-hour staffing levels. Each person receives a continuous active treatment program that includes training, health services and other related services to help the person achieve as much self-determination and independence as possible.

• Minimally Supervised Living Arrangement (MSLA)

People live in their own homes/apartments with a roommate and share 24-hour staffing levels with another home/apartment setting that is close by. Each person receives a continuous active treatment program that includes training, health services and other related services to help the person achieve as much self-determination and independence as possible.

• Family and Community Living (ISLA, Respite, Family Support)

ISLA (Individualized Supported Living Arrangement): Supports people who choose to live independently in apartments or their own homes. People may receive as little as five hours of support per week or as much as 24 hours per day.

Respite and Family Support: Supports families with children who have special needs and continue to live in the family home.

• Vocational Services (Adult Day and Day Supports)

Adult Day: Supports people who want to focus on recreation and leisure activities versus employment.

Day Supports: Supports people who want to increase their vocational skills and prepare for having a job in the community. This is accomplished through community job sites and in-house contracts.

• Supported Employment/Extended Services (SEP/ES)

Supported Employment: Focuses on the placement of a person into a competitive, community-based job of their choice with on-the-job training.

Extended Services: Once a person has obtained some independence on the job, this service provides ongoing supports to both the employer and the employee to insure continued success.