Volunteer: DD/ABI Human Rights Committee Member

The role

This volunteer will promote, safeguard, and protect the human dignity and legal rights of adults with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injuries. Members monitor programs, review practices, and conduct site visits to ensure individuals are treated with dignity and freedom of choice.

What you will do

• Review and monitor the authorization and use of behavior modification interventions and emergency restraints.
• Make inquiries into complaints and allegations of consumer mistreatment, harm, or violations of rights.
• Monitor the investigation and resolution process for complaints.
• Participate in at least one scheduled visit per year to each service location to observe conditions.
• Annually review provider policies, procedures, and practices regarding consumer rights.
• Monitor the conduct of research taking place at provider program sites.
• Review and monitor methods used to inform consumers, families, guardians, and staff about human rights.
• Review all meeting materials and documentation seven days prior to scheduled meetings.
• Complete an initial orientation regarding the Provider's programs and policies.

Required qualifications

• Demonstrated interest, experience, or knowledge relevant to the duties of human rights oversight.
• Must not have a direct or indirect financial or administrative interest in the Provider organization.
• Must commit to maintaining strict confidentiality regarding all client, provider, and committee information.

Nice to have

• Individuals receiving services/supports from DDS, or advocates/family members for such individuals.
• A Physician or Nurse.
• A Psychologist or Master’s-level Practitioner with expertise in developmental disabilities, mental illness, or Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
• An Attorney, Law Student, or Paralegal with relevant expertise.

About the company

Eliot Community Human Services and R&G Healthcare Services DD/ABI Human Rights Committee is a mission-driven team committed to resilience, empowerment, and lasting change.