Community Trainee

Currently accepting applications for the 2025-26 Year

Click here to access the URLEND application

Read the sections below before applying.

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Community Trainees are valued for their experiences with people with disabilities. These trainees complete the core URLEND program alongside Professional Trainees, Self-Advocates, and Family Members.

Things to Know

Time Commitment: 300 hours over two semesters.
Semesters: Fall and Spring semesters run August thru April.
Stipend: Most trainees receive a stipend.
Acceptance: Approximately 2 openings are available per year.

Criteria

College degree/program completion from an accredited college or university (foreign acceptable).
Community experience serving individuals with disabilities: 3 or more years working within the community.
Citizen or legal resident of the United States to be eligible for a stipend.
Available Friday afternoons for fall and spring semester from 12-4 Mountain Time to attend seminars.
Commitment to complete 300 hours of training.
Must be able to provide documentation of immunity to or vaccination for: covid, flu, pertussis, varicella, and MMR; exemptions are not possible.
Must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check and drug screen.

Demonstrated Leadership Skills

Evidence of adequate written and oral communication skills to allow interacting with peers, families, and faculty.
Evidence of leadership roles/actions within community organizations or thru community work. (Example - a project/program which promotes well-being)
Evidence of the ability to work effectively in groups/teams as well as independently.
Previous or strong interest on supporting, educating, empowering, and developing activities/efforts for community wellbeing.
Able to identify community needs and possible/potential solutions.
Self-defined leadership goals for the community at the local, regional, or national level.
Evidence of flexibility and adaptability combined with persistence. (Example - challenging life experiences)
Evidence of relevant/insightful knowledge gained while working with the community.

Application Materials you will be asked to upload as part of the application.

Current Resume.
One letter of recommendation from a supervisor or colleague addressing the above criteria and leadership skills.
Letter of Interest (2-pages) which addresses:

Community work (include any experiences working with diverse and multicultural populations);
Leadership roles demonstrating any work within the community (examples of initiative in community work, description of previous experience)
Current interest in the field of disabilities;
Discussion of community needs related to youth and families with disabilities and areas for potential improvement;
Leadership goals in the field of community health and/or disabilities;
How you would apply URLEND into current or future work;
A description of time availability to complete required program hours.