Overview
We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and energetic Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a community-based Social Recreation Training Program. This position focuses on helping individuals build social, recreational, communication, safety, and independent living skills through meaningful participation in community activities.
The DSP will provide direct support during recreational outings, group activities, community events, and skill-building opportunities. The ideal candidate is patient, professional, person-centered, and committed to promoting inclusion, independence, dignity, and choice for the individuals we serve.
Responsibilities
- Provide direct support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities during social recreation activities and community outings.
- Assist individuals in developing appropriate social skills, communication skills, safety awareness, and community participation skills.
- Support individuals in engaging in recreational, leisure, and social activities based on their interests, goals, and abilities.
- Promote independence, self-advocacy, personal choice, and community inclusion.
- Encourage positive interactions with peers, staff, and community members.
- Assist with transportation support, community navigation, and safety supervision during outings, as assigned.
- Implement individualized goals, service plans, behavior support strategies, and program expectations as directed.
- Monitor participant safety, well-being, and engagement throughout program activities.
- Provide prompts, redirection, encouragement, and support as needed in a respectful and professional manner.
- Document participant progress, attendance, incidents, and other required information accurately and timely.
- Communicate professionally with supervisors, team members, families, caregivers, and service coordinators as appropriate.
- Maintain confidentiality and comply with all agency policies, procedures, and applicable regulations.
- Participate in required staff meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development.
- Support individuals with personal care needs when applicable and within the scope of assigned duties.
Skills
- Knowledge of person-centered practices.
- Understanding of intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Ability to support individuals with varying communication, behavioral, and social needs.
- Experience implementing behavior support strategies.
- Ability to remain calm, respectful, and professional in challenging situations.
- Creativity in encouraging participation in recreational and community-based activities.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities preferred.
- Experience in direct support, caregiving, behavioral support, recreation, social services, education, or community-based programs is a plus.
- Must be patient, reliable, flexible, and able to work respectfully with individuals of diverse abilities and backgrounds.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
- Ability to support individuals in community settings while maintaining safety and professionalism.
- Must be able to follow individualized support plans and program guidelines.
- Must be able to complete required documentation accurately and on time.
- Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, clean driving record, and proof of auto insurance may be required depending on program needs.
- Must pass background check and meet all applicable hiring requirements.
- CPR/First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain upon hire.
This is a meaningful opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by helping them build confidence, friendships, independence, and community connections. As a DSP, you will play an important role in creating safe, inclusive, and enjoyable social recreation experiences.
Pay: $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Mileage reimbursement
Work Location: In person
