Independent Life Skills Trainer (ILST)

Job Description

Job Description

Independent Living Skills Trainer (ILST)

Location : Simsbury, CT (In-Home & Community-Based Setting)

Employment Type : Full-Time

Schedule : Tuesday–Friday, 3 : 30 p.m.–10 : 30 p.m.; Saturday, 8 : 00 a.m.–6 : 00 p.m.

Hourly Rate : $20.25

About Favarh :

Founded in 1958, Favarh – The Arc of the Farmington Valley is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I / DD) live as independently and inclusively as possible. Our work is guided by person-centered planning, dignity, and empowerment, and we offer innovative services that enhance lives and build futures.

Our Mission :

To help each person achieve their personal best.

Our Vision :

A future where each person with an intellectual or developmental disability lives in the community with the support they need to be a contributing citizen, live as independently as possible, and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle.

What We Offer :

Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)

Generous Paid Time Off that increases with tenure

Paid Holidays

Medical Insurance with a tiered cost structure based on years of service

Free Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability

403(b) Retirement Plan with employer contributions (up to 12%) based on tenure

Employer-Funded EBHRA Health Reimbursement Plan ($2,150 annually)

Employee Referral Bonus Program

Discounted offsite fitness memberships (Healthtrax and more)

Comprehensive training program

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Internal advancement opportunities

About the Role :

Favarh is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Independent Living Skills Trainer (ILST) to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role is crucial in helping individuals develop essential life skills that foster independence and improve quality of life.

The ILST will design and implement individualized training programs tailored to each person’s strengths and goals. Focus areas may include personal finance, communication, daily living skills, and more. Collaboration with families, therapists, social workers, and other team members is key to delivering person-centered, holistic support.

Support is provided in both home and community settings. The ILST helps individuals build autonomy, self-advocacy, self-sufficiency, and safety awareness, ultimately enabling fuller, more independent lives.

Key Areas of Support :

Housing Assistance : Customized living arrangements based on individual needs

Personal Finance : Budgeting, managing money, and financial literacy

Employment Support : Supported employment, pre-vocational training, and job coaching

Life Skills Training : Meal preparation, hygiene, housekeeping, and other ADLs

Community Involvement : Encouraging participation in arts, music, and media programs

Health & Wellness : Medication management, hygiene, mobility, and medical needs

Communication : Promoting self-advocacy and healthy interpersonal interactions

Advocacy & Support : Brain injury support groups, disability advocacy, and personalized care

Residential Programs : Tailored residential services for diverse support needs

Specialized Staffing : Private pay brain injury services with trained professionals

Transportation : Support with accessing work, appointments, and social activities

Minimum Qualifications :

21+ years of age

Valid CT driver's license held for a minimum of 3 years (clean driving record)

Ability to pass background checks and all required screenings

Physical capability to lift 75 lbs., and sit / stand / walk for extended periods

High School Diploma or equivalent

Certification in ABI Independent Life Skills Training (ABI ILST) or related field (ABI = Acquired Brain Injury)

At least 1 year of experience working with individuals of diverse intellectual and physical abilities

Understanding of person-centered planning and independent living principles

Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills

Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team

Preferred Qualifications :

Associate or bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Education, or related field

Experience developing training materials and individualized programs

Familiarity with community resources and support systems

Knowledge of electronic documentation systems (e.g., Therap, Relias, Sandata, ADP)

Key Responsibilities :

Conduct assessments to identify strengths, needs, and areas for growth

Develop and implement Individualized Service Plans (ISP) based on client goals

Facilitate both one-on-one and group training sessions

Maintain accurate documentation (T-Logs, ISP data collection, Incident Reports [GER])

Monitor progress and adjust training approaches as needed

Collaborate with individuals, families, and care teams to ensure consistent support

Encourage and celebrate progress and independence

Advocate for the dignity and choices of every participant

Help individuals access and navigate community resources

Promote safety, wellness, and positive behavior in all settings

Expectations :

Maintain respectful and empowering relationships with participants

Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness

Exhibit professionalism, reliability, and a strong work ethic

Engage in ongoing training and development

Remain adaptable to the evolving needs of individuals and the organization

Essential Skills :

Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport

Effective organizational skills for planning and documentation

Problem-solving skills to adapt strategies and overcome challenges

Knowledge of community resources to enhance support

A commitment to creating positive and impactful learning experiences

Why Work at Favarh?

Join a supportive, mission-driven organization where your work makes a difference

Access ongoing mentorship, training, and opportunities for career advancement

Be part of a culture centered on inclusion, respect, and individual growth

Receive a comprehensive benefits package

Enjoy flexible scheduling and competitive pay

Favarh is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

To learn more about Favarh and current opportunities, visit our website www.Favarh.org.