Mary Harmer
Brooklyn,NY
Summary
Collaborative leader and innovative thinker in the disability justice, accessibility, and inclusion space who fosters tools and strategies for dynamic and impactful advocacy, as well as an equitable and positive work culture. Diligent in both big picture policy implementation and granular client experience, bringing both to the table for holistic growth and progression for clients and colleagues alike.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager of Disability Advocacy
Coalition for the Homeless
01.2020 - Current
- In addition to existing Disability Rights Specialist Duties, this role includes: Leading collection and analyzation critical data regarding disability rates and accommodation approvals, and system-wide access barriers for monitoring the Butler disability rights settlement.
- Increased team productivity by implementing streamlined processes and effective communication strategies.
- Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
- Developing the Disability Rights Intern position, training and supervising the hired staff to monitor Butler settlement productions, triage client complaints, and coordinate with Advocacy team members as it relates to the broad-scale monitoring of disability rights violations.
- Initiating, leading, and/or participating in discussions regarding system-wide disability rights concerns with City stakeholders, including at the Department of Homeless Services, Office of Emergency Management, Health and Hospitals, and other high-level City stakeholders and legal counsel to seek resolution on reported issues in compliance with local, state, and Federal law.
- Continuing to visit shelter facilities for routine monitoring, including visits to newly opening migrant facilities, and providing real-time consultation on ADA compliance and accessibility strategies.
Disability Rights Specialist
Coalition for the Homeless
01.2020 - Current
- Direct advocacy for clients with disabilities accessing homeless services, including assisting with obtaining reasonable accommodations and ensuring equitable access to shelter services
- Coordination and consultation on policies, procedures, infrastructural accessibility, and equitable access for clients with disabilities
- Development and provision of education on disability rights and LGBTQ+ allyship, and distribution of related educational resources to clients, Coalition staff, shelter providers, and other entities
- Education and general advocacy on homeless and disability rights, including during shelter visits, via email, in meetings, and other communications, with DHS and provider staff, legal representatives, clients, and other advocates
- Development and coordination of Disability Focus Group to consult with participants with lived experience of disability and homelessness.
- Developed strong client relationships through consistent communication and attentive service.
Family Support Outreach Manager
Block Institute
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Coordinated evaluations and case management for individuals with developmental disabilities seeking services.
- Led development of Remote Day Program for adults with disabilities, including setting up program, activities, schedules, providing training, leading Committee, and developing policy.
- Managed Intake and Admissions for adult day program and residential services, including developing policy and procedure.
- Coordinated low-income housing placement for adults with disabilities, including screening and application processes, lease signing and move in, collaboration with landlord, advocacy, and development of policy and procedure.
- Enhanced community engagement by developing and implementing strategic outreach initiatives.
- Strengthened partnerships with local organizations through consistent communication and collaboration.
Behavior Intervention Coach
Block Institute
08.2017 - 02.2019
- Developed and implemented individualized plans for positive behavior support and crisis intervention.
- Provided training for direct support staff and management on proactive and reactive strategies for individual behavior support, as well as general tools for positive behavior management.
- Collected and analyzed data on individual behavior incidents to track and report to interdisciplinary team.
- Provided direct support to individuals: leading activity groups, working 1:1 in crisis intervention, teaching new strategies.
Education
Master of Disability And Inclusion -
Deakin University
2021
Bachelor of Arts -
Monash University
2014
Skills
- Efficient and Adaptable
- Creative and Innovative Thinking
- Strong Written and Verbal Communication
- Self-Motivated and Diligent
- Collaborative Team Leader
- Policy Implementation & Monitoring
Volunteer Experience
- Support Artist, Co/LAB Theater Group, New York, NY, 2017 - 2020
- Stage Manager, Torn Out Theater, New York, NY, 2018
- Stage & Production Manager, Bluelaces Theater Co., New York, NY, 2017
- Production Assistant, Our Voices Project, New York, NY, 2016
- Production Assistant, The Apothetae, New York, NY, 2017
Hobbies and Interests
- Social Justice and Community Activism
- Creative Arts: Painting, Performance, Craft, Music
- Healing Arts: Yoga, Meditation, Herbalism, Dance
Timeline
Manager of Disability Advocacy
Coalition for the Homeless
01.2020 - Current
Disability Rights Specialist
Coalition for the Homeless
01.2020 - Current
Family Support Outreach Manager
Block Institute
01.2019 - 01.2020
Behavior Intervention Coach
Block Institute
08.2017 - 02.2019
Master of Disability And Inclusion -
Deakin University
Bachelor of Arts -
Monash University
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