Job Summary: As a limited tenure Community Autism Resource Education Support (C.A.R.E.S.) Coordinator, your primary responsibility is to provide comprehensive support to families navigating a new autism diagnosis. This is a 12-month grant project July 1st, 2026- June 30, 2027, to increase outreach, individual and group support and materials to help with system navigation for families of children with disabilities with a focus on families of children with autism in underserved communities.
Key Responsibilities:
Family Outreach:
● Conduct outreach to families impacted by autism through various channels, including community events, social media, and local organizations.
● Provide information, resources, system navigation assistance to families in the early stages of a new autism diagnosis.
Outreach to Diverse Families:
● Develop and implement outreach strategies that foster meaningful engagement with diverse communities while promoting inclusivity, cultural responsiveness, and humility.
● Cultivate and maintain collaborative partnerships with community leaders, cultural and ethnic organizations, and advocacy groups to better understand and address the unique needs of diverse individuals and families.
● Create and adapt outreach and educational materials to ensure they are culturally relevant, inclusive, and accessible to the communities served.
● Promote equitable access to information by coordinating the translation of program materials and ensuring resources are available in multiple languages whenever possible.
Building Partnerships:
● Establish and maintain partnerships with local schools, healthcare providers, community organizations, and other relevant stakeholders.
● Collaborate with professionals in the field of autism to enhance the network of support available to families
● Organize joint events, workshops, and training sessions with partner organizations.
Facilitating Support Groups:
● Organize and facilitate support groups for families with members diagnosed with autism.
● Provide a safe and empathetic space for sharing experiences, strategies, and coping mechanisms.
● Bring in guest speakers or professionals for specialized topics related to autism.
● Training or experience in trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, or family-centered practices is preferred.
Creating Materials for Families:
● Develop educational materials, guides, short videos, and resources to assist families in understanding and navigating the challenges associated with autism.
● Ensure that materials are accessible and tailored to diverse audiences, including those with different linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
● Utilize various formats such as printed materials, online resources, and multimedia presentations.
Qualifications:
● Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, education, or a related field. Master's degree is preferred.
● Knowledge of autism spectrum disorders and the challenges faced by individuals and families.
● Strong interpersonal relationship and communication skills. Candidate will have skills and possess the ability to navigate challenging circumstances.
● Experience in community outreach and partnership development.
● Ability to work collaboratively with diverse communities.
● Familiarity with resources and services available for individuals with autism in the Rochester, MN area.
● Must possess strong computer/technical skills and be able to navigate various software programs as well as social media platforms.
● Bilingual or multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
● Candidate will possess pedagogical adults. This includes creating educational materials.
Attributes:
● Demonstrates compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting autistic individuals and their families.
● Practices self-awareness and cultural humility, recognizing personal biases and actively working to ensure equitable, inclusive, and respectful interactions.
● Self-motivated, proactive, and able to take initiative while managing responsibilities independently.
● Demonstrates the ability to work effectively with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability and professionalism.
● Applies trauma-informed, strengths-based, and family-centered practices when supporting families navigating complex systems and life experiences.
● Possesses excellent organizational, time management, and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
Misc:
● Flexible hours - days, evenings, weekends ● 15 hours/week ● Flexible work locations - in office, virtual, in the community
Submission Requirements: ● Cover letter
● Resume/CV
● Letter of recommendation
Interested candidates should send their Resume, CV, and at least one letter of recommendation to [email protected]
Pay: $30.00 per hour
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Rochester, MN 55901