Client and Family Advocate-Navigator Program na UCP Heartland

🌟 Job Posting: Family Navigation – Client and Family Advocate
Location: LaGuardia Corporate Office (St. Louis, MO)
Department: Family Supports
Status: Full-Time, Regular, Non-Exempt
Reports To: Director of Family Supports

About UCP Heartland

UCP Heartland is dedicated to empowering individuals with differing abilities to live extraordinary lives—at home, at work, and in the community. We provide individualized supports that promote independence, inclusion, and dignity for all.

Position Overview

The Family Navigation: Client and Family Advocate serves as a compassionate and informed guide for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. This role helps families access critical resources, services, and information that promote independence and quality of life. Acting as both a systems navigator and intake coordinator, the Advocate ensures a smooth, person-centered entry into UCP Heartland services—supporting each individual’s unique needs and goals.

This is a vital position that helps clients and families navigate complex service delivery systems while promoting equity, inclusion, and empowerment.

Key Responsibilities

Client Navigation & Advocacy

• Serve as the primary point of contact for families and individuals seeking services.
• Support clients in identifying needs and connecting to housing, medical, financial, educational, and behavioral health resources.
• Provide education and referrals for navigating public and private support systems.
• Facilitate monthly client advocacy meetings.
• Conduct follow-up calls to assess satisfaction and identify additional service needs.

Intake Coordination

• Manage incoming inquiries across UCPH programs (ABA, Daycare, Employment, Residential, Adult Day, ITT, Youth Camps, ISLA, etc.).
• Conduct preliminary screenings and gather eligibility documentation.
• Coordinate with internal teams for service assignments, follow-ups, and warm hand-offs.
• Track and analyze inquiry-to-enrollment data to support continuous improvement.

Collaboration & Outreach

• Collaborate across UCPH departments to ensure seamless intake and navigation experiences.
• Represent UCP Heartland at community events, transition fairs, and public information sessions.
• Contribute to advocacy efforts such as Disability Rights Legislative Day and Children’s Disability Rights Day.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of client interactions, service plans, and resource connections.
• Upload required records and assessments into designated systems.
• Participate in quality improvement and data tracking initiatives.

Core Competencies

• Customer Focus: Builds strong, trust-based relationships and delivers person-centered solutions.
• Interpersonal Savvy: Relates comfortably and effectively with diverse groups.
• Manages Complexity: Navigates complex information and systems with clarity and precision.
• Action-Oriented: Approaches challenges with urgency, purpose, and initiative.
• Collaboration: Builds partnerships and works effectively across teams.
• Communication: Clearly conveys information and fosters understanding and engagement.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 5+ years of experience working with individuals with developmental and/or physical disabilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Familiarity with local and state service systems (Medicaid, DMH, special education, etc.).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; ability to learn agency databases (SetWorks, Central Reach).

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in special education, psychology, social work, human services, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of community and state resources for persons with disabilities.

Benefits

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off (Generous PTO Policy and 10 company holidays!)
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance
• Pet insurance

Why Join UCP Heartland?

At UCP Heartland, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, compassion, and advocacy. We offer a supportive workplace, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of families in our community.

Ready to make a difference?
 Apply today