Disability Concerns Specialist

DescriptionPURPOSEThe Disability Concerns Specialist will foster relationships and communities that promote a sense of belonging and assist churches, agencies, institutions, and leadership within the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA) and the Reformed Church in America (RCA).  The goal is for these parties' actions to align with the biblical call regarding people with disabilities. This position will work to break barriers of communication and attitude. Overall, establishing ministries that support disabled people and their families.  This is a part-time position with an expectation to work 18 hours/week. The CRCNA exhibits love for the diversity of the human family. As such we welcome & encourage all regardless of race, ethnicity, ability and culture to apply. Should you require any accommodation throughout the recruitment process please do not hesitate contacting our Human Resources Department. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following: Support accessibility in the whole life of a congregation. Engage with congregational leaders in pursuing justice and providing accessibility strategies for people who have disabilities Support regional disability advocates, church disability advocates, and regional causes as resources to the churches. Work with CRC and RCA Disability Concerns staff in developing and refining resources, programs, and goals for meaningful integration of people with disabilities among staff, ministries, and congregations. Strengthen and develop strategic partnerships with individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds and ministries, both within and outside the denomination, to address ableism and promote engagement with people with disabilities. Engage in writing and educational opportunities that promote awareness and advance work on disability concerns. Fulfill additional responsibilities as assigned by the Equip Team Lead.  SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES NoneSKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERTISE:QUALIFICATIONS Professing membership in a Christian Reformed congregation, or of a church in communion with the CRCNA, and agreement with the doctrine of the church signified by signing a covenant statement. Demonstrated biblical and theological understanding of disability theology  Established understanding of ministry with people who have disabilities. Demonstrated engagement in disability advocacy on individual and systemic levels, and a strong commitment to persons with disabilities. Strong commitment to creating and supporting ecclesiastical processes that will provide justice, equity, and inclusion at all levels of denominational authority. Demonstrated administrative and organizational skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Proven ability to speak and write in ways that effectively communicate the ministry of Disability Concerns. Agility in interacting with diverse individuals and a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion on an individual and systemic level.  Knowledge of accessibility standards and ways to provide accommodation. Ability to travel in the United States and Canada as needed. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education required in a related field Experience in an academic or professional field relevant to the mission and work of Disability Concerns is preferred. PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.WORK ENVIRONMENTThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. BenefitsBenefits may be pro-rated based on # of hours worked per week: Work-Life Balance Flexible Work Arrangements  Professional Development Opportunities Contributing to an organization that is making an impact in the world Who We AreThe Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA) includes just over one thousand congregations across the United States and Canada. About 75 percent of the churches are in the United States and 25 percent are in Canada. While we're a denomination with churches and ministries in two countries, we share in the blessings of ecclesial unity and joint ministry. Almost 230,000 people belong to the CRCNA—not a large number when you consider the population of our two countries. But by God’s grace we can accomplish a lot when we work together.The CRCNA denominational offices serve the local church, providing resources to pastors and congregations so that people are introduced to Jesus Christ and their faith is nurtured. Other agencies of the CRCNA include ReFrame Ministries, Resonate Global Mission, and World Renew. Be Who You Are The CRCNA is committed to building a culture of belonging that encourages, supports, and celebrates the voices and experiences of all our employees. We strive to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of our broader culture and the Christian church, and invite all qualified candidates to apply.  To read the CRCNA Diversity Statement click here