Elizabeth Horn
Summary
Energetic and empathetic individual with passion for supporting and empowering people with disabilities mainly in their claims for social security disability benefits. Possesses strong understanding of disability rights and advocacy, paired with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities. Dedicated to helping individuals with disability become their own best advocate. Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
Work History
Disability Advocate
Disability Law Center of Virginia
10.2013 - 01.2025
- Monitored policy changes affecting people with disabilities, staying informed on relevant legislation updates that impact clientele base.
- Identified barriers faced by clients with disabilities, implementing strategies to overcome these challenges.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive support for clients with disabilities.
- Improved client satisfaction by providing personalized support and advocating for their rights.
- Assisted clients in navigating complex systems, such as benefits applications and medical appointments.
- Championed the rights of clients during legal proceedings, ensuring fair representation and protection of their interests.
- Maintained detailed case files for each client, ensuring accurate documentation of progress and outcomes.
- Conducted training sessions for staff members on best practices related to disability support and advocacy work.
- Empowered individuals with disabilities through skill-building workshops designed to enhance self-advocacy abilities.
- Presented at conferences on disability advocacy topics, raising awareness among industry professionals and the public alike.
- Kept accurate records for client files and handled related paperwork.
Social Security Disability Advocate
Self-employed
01.1997 - 09.2013
- Represented social security disability claimants at their administrative hearing with advance preparation of client and file.
- Conducted thorough assessments to identify client's evidence, leading to tailored interventions on case.
- Communicated with medical and vocational providers and requested detailed information in support of client's claim.
- Maintained detailed case files for each client, ensuring accurate documentation of progress and outcomes.
Human Rights Advocate
Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services
01.1992 - 01.1996
- Worked effectively with fellow team members to coordinate effective solutions to any question or concern.
- Delivered friendly service and offered expert support in every interaction.
- Established trusting relationships with clients by maintaining open lines of communication throughout the entire representation process.
- Managed complex caseloads with diligence, prioritizing tasks to ensure timely resolution of cases.
Executive Director
Virginia Brain Injury Association
04.1984 - 04.1991
- Worked closely with organizational leadership and board of directors to guide operational strategy.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Guided staff through periods of organizational change, maintaining morale and engagement during transitions.
- Forge strong relationships with board members, providing regular updates on organizational progress and soliciting their expertise when needed.
- Built relationships with donors, government officials and other organizations to secure funding and support for organization.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing favorable terms while adhering to budgetary constraints.
- Represented organization to local public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
- Collaborated with external organizations including non-profits, businesses and government agencies to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Developed strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to expand the organization''s reach and influence.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts
Wells College
Aurora, NY05-1996
Master of Arts - Non-profit Management
World Learning
Brattleboro, VT08-1982
Skills
- Adaptive thinking
- Resource navigation
- Research
- Policy advocacy
- Self-advocacy training
- Disability rights knowledge
- Verbal and written communication
- Documentation skills
- Client advocacy
Weinstock Award from the Virginia Brain Injury Association
2020 For demonstrating commitment to people with brain injury and promoting awareness and their needs.
Timeline
Disability Advocate
Disability Law Center of Virginia
10.2013 - 01.2025
Social Security Disability Advocate
Self-employed
01.1997 - 09.2013
Human Rights Advocate
Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services
01.1992 - 01.1996
Executive Director
Virginia Brain Injury Association
04.1984 - 04.1991
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts
Wells College
Master of Arts - Non-profit Management
World Learning
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