Community Integration Specialist - Art Studio

Community Integration Specialist

Goodwill Columbus | Day Services | Monday - Friday | 8am - 5pm

Make a difference every day while building lives of possibility.

Do you enjoy helping others reach their goals, build confidence, and become more connected in their community? As a Community Integration Specialist I (DOT Driver) , you'll work directly with individuals with developmental disabilities, helping them develop independence, strengthen social connections, learn new skills, and experience meaningful community engagement.

This is more than a direct support role. You'll serve as a coach, advocate, mentor, and community connector while helping individuals live fuller, more self-directed lives.

Why Join Goodwill Columbus?

At Goodwill Columbus, our mission is helping people build lives of possibility and purpose . Every day, we empower individuals to achieve greater independence, employment success, personal growth, and community inclusion. As a Community Integration Specialist, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact by supporting individuals as they develop skills, build community connections, and create meaningful experiences that enrich their lives. If you're looking for a career with purpose, where your work directly changes lives, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Do

Support Individual Growth & Independence

• Help individuals identify personal goals, interests, hobbies, and future aspirations.
• Teach and reinforce essential life skills, including:
  • Communication
  • Social skills
  • Workplace readiness
  • Conflict resolution
  • Self-advocacy
  • Self-determination
  • Personal safety
  • Independence skills
• Encourage individuals to make informed choices and actively direct their own lives.

Facilitate Community Engagement

• Support participation in volunteer opportunities, social activities, and community-based experiences.
• Foster meaningful relationships and social connections.
• Create inclusive opportunities that promote independence and community involvement.
• Build and maintain partnerships with local organizations and community resources.

Provide Direct Support

• Coach and support individuals in real-world environments.
• Monitor health, safety, and well-being while in the community.
• Implement approved behavioral support strategies when necessary.
• Assist with personal care and medication administration as needed.
• Advocate for individual rights, inclusion, and personal choice.

Transportation Responsibilities

• Safely transport individuals to and from programs, volunteer sites, and community activities.
• Operate agency vehicles in compliance with transportation and safety regulations.
• Maintain eligibility for all DOT and Non-Medical Transportation requirements.

Documentation & Team Collaboration

• Complete timely and accurate service documentation and progress updates.
• Communicate participant achievements and concerns with the interdisciplinary team.
• Participate in team meetings and planning discussions.
• Manage participant petty cash when assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities (IDD/DD) or in a related human services field.
• Valid Ohio driver's license and proof of automobile insurance.
• Ability to pass a DOT Physical or obtain physician clearance for Non-Medical Transportation (NMT).
• Ability to maintain all required certifications and training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience providing personal care support.
• Experience teaching, coaching, mentoring, or training others.
• College coursework in Developmental Disabilities, Special Education, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field.

Skills for Success

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Compassionate, patient, and person-centered.
• A strong communicator and relationship builder.
• Organized with excellent time management and multitasking skills.
• Creative in developing engaging and meaningful community activities.
• Comfortable working independently and making sound decisions.
• Flexible and adaptable when supporting different individuals and situations.
• A strong problem solver with good judgment.
• Skilled at building partnerships with community organizations.
• Comfortable using technology and mobile documentation systems.
• Customer-service focused when interacting with participants, families, and the public.

Work Environment

This role is primarily community-based and may include:

• Volunteer sites
• Animal shelters
• Food pantries
• Community organizations
• Recreational and educational settings

Candidates should be comfortable:

• Driving throughout the community in varying traffic and weather conditions.
• Working both indoors and outdoors.
• Supporting individuals with mobility, behavioral, and personal care needs.
• Working in moderately noisy environments.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent walking, standing, bending, and movement throughout the day.
• Ability to assist with participant mobility needs.
• Ability to lift and transfer up to 100 pounds with assistance.
• Use of lifts and adaptive equipment as needed.
• Frequent computer and electronic documentation use.