DRNY, the Protection and Advocacy System and the Client Assistance Program for New York State is seeking an individual with a passion for achieving justice for individuals with disabilities. With a focus on civil rights and disability justice, DRNY actively works to break down the systemic oppression of all people with disabilities. DRNY recognizes the intersecting legacies and effect of ableism, white supremacy, colonial capitalism, and gendered oppression on people with disabilities. Joining DRNY is an opportunity to challenge systemic abuse, neglect, discrimination, and rights violations through case-handling, individual and systemic litigation, public investigations, advocacy, and collaboration with stakeholders. DRNY is committed to examining bias, privilege, racism, and intersectional social change in all aspects of our work. DRNY is a civil rights advocacy leader and we are seeking new staff who will contribute to our values and mission.
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Fellowship Opportunity with Disability Rights New York Overview Disability Rights New York (DRNY), the Protection and Advocacy system for New York State, is seeking innovative, self-motivated attorneys with a passion for achieving justice, advancing rights, and further empowering the lives of individuals with intellectual, developmental, or mental health disabilities. This fellowship provides the opportunity to join a statewide organization that works on systemic reform within NYS especially at the federal courts level. DRNY challenges systemic abuse, neglect, discrimination, and civil rights violations through litigation, public investigations, advocacy, and collaboration with stakeholders. As the state designated P&A/CAP system for New York, DRNY advocates for the civil and legal rights for all New Yorkers with disabilities. Affirmatively, DRNY envisions an inclusive world that provides equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities - one that is free from discrimination, abuse and neglect. New York residents with disabilites can contact DRNY for assistance with problems directly related to their disabilities. DRNY investigates complaints and provides direct assistance to callers with disability-related issues under the terms of its federal grants and its annual goals and priorities. The P&A programs are briefly described below: - PADD - Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities
- PAIMI - Protection and Advocacy for Individulas with Mental Illness
- PAIR - Protection and Advocacy for Individual Rights
- PAAT - Protection and Advocacy for Assistive Technology
- CAP - Client Assistance Program
- PAVA - Protection and Advocacy for Voting Access
- PATBI - Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injuries
- PABSS - Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security
To learn more about these P&A programs and their respectful priorities, please click here for more information. Essential Functions The Fellow performs a wide range of duties, including the following: - Analyze new and existing cases, as well as other matters, to determine if they present systemic issues which may be appropriate for DRNY to address, and, with the Program Director, formulate strategies for their prevention, reduction or elimination;
- Act in accordance with identified Priorities and Goals of the Program;
- Consult with professionals such as attorneys, physicians, psychologists, therapists, educators, and others to identify options and barriers for individuals and groups;
- Maintain accurate, confidential files;
- Maintain accurate time records and client records, including accurate use of the client tracking database for DRNY to meet its programmatic and fiscal responsibilities;
- Perform related tasks consistent with skills, abilities, and general responsibilities as required to support DRNY, and other duties as assigned;
- Travel throughout New York State and outside of New York State as necessary to perform assigned job tasks.
Qualifications - JD or law degree from an accredited law school or recent law school graduate sitting for the next available NY bar exam;
- Ability to work efficiently, independently and collaboratively as part of a team;
- Excellent communication skills;
- Relationship building skills;
- Strong organizational skills;
- Strong problem solving skills;
- Outstanding professionalism and ethical judgement;
- Ability to work with diverse groups of individuals.
Preferred - Public interest, civil rights, or disability law experience;
- Experience working with diverse populations:
- Grant or other funding.
Working Conditions A Fellow usually performs work in an office environment, but the mission of the organization may sometimes take a Fellow to non-standard workplaces. A Fellow will be expected to travel within and outside the state as necessary. DRNY is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. Location This position is currently offering opportunities in both our Albany & Brooklyn offices. HOW TO APPLY Apply directly to the following weblink: DRNY Fellowship and click on "Apply Now". Please supply the following: -
A proposal or letter of interest detaling the objective of this fellowship as it applies to DRNY's mission and also describing your approach to research, achievieving the tasks necessary, and perspective outcome. -
A resume of relevant experience -
At least one (1) writing sample demonstrating issue analysis and legal writing skills - Preferably three (3) professional references with names and contact information
To view more about our organization, check out our YouTube videos highlighting DRNY’s mission in advocating for the civil rights of individuals with disabilities. Please visit our DRNY YouTube Channel and review our DRNY Newsletter. |
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