Looking for More Than a Job? Become a Mentor, and Community Connection.
Part-Time Self-Directed Support Professional (SSP)
Approximately 15 Hours Per Week | Mid-Day to Early Evening Hours
Schedule Based on Participant Need and Applicant Availability
We are looking for someone who believes that meaningful relationships, shared experiences, and genuine connection matter.
This is not a traditional caregiving role. While some support with daily life, community participation, planning, and skill-building is involved, the heart of this position is helping someone build a richer social life, stronger friendships, and greater connection to their community.
We are seeking a peer-minded support person who can spend time alongside an adult with a disability as they explore interests, attend community activities, build confidence, develop relationships, and enjoy life.
The best candidate is someone who naturally enjoys connecting with people, encouraging others, and helping create opportunities for belonging.
What You'll Do
- Participate in community activities together
- Explore hobbies, interests, and local events
- Support social opportunities and relationship-building
- Help identify and pursue new experiences
- Encourage independence, self-advocacy, and decision-making
- Provide support in home and community settings as needed
- Assist with planning, organization, and follow-through on personal goals
- Serve as a positive, consistent, and trusted presence in the person's life
This role is about doing things with someone, not for them.
Who We're Looking For
We are especially interested in candidates who can relate through shared interests, experiences, personality, or life stage.
You might be a great fit if you have experience in:
- Human Services
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Education
- Behavioral Health
- Recreation or Youth Programs
- Community Outreach
- Peer Support
- Coaching or Mentoring
- Direct Support
- Volunteer Leadership
We also welcome candidates whose professional experience may be limited but who have demonstrated strong relationship-building, mentoring, teaching, coaching, or community engagement skills.
The Ideal Candidate Is:
- Friendly, patient, and authentic
- A good listener and conversationalist
- Comfortable supporting independence rather than taking over
- Interested in developing genuine connections
- Reliable and consistent
- Open-minded and respectful of individual choice
- Comfortable spending time in the community and trying new things
- Able to encourage growth while respecting autonomy
Schedule
Approximately 15 hours per week.
Hours will generally occur during mid-day through early evening and will be determined collaboratively based on participant needs, community activities, and staff availability.
Some flexibility is available.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred
- Ability to pass required background checks
- Ability to work within Pennsylvania's Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Participant-Directed Services model
- Commitment to person-centered and community-based supports
Why This Role Matters
Many people with disabilities receive support for health and safety needs. Far fewer have opportunities to develop authentic friendships, expand their social circles, and experience true belonging within their communities.
This position offers the chance to make a meaningful difference by helping someone build the kinds of relationships and experiences that most people take for granted.
If you are the type of person who enjoys connecting with others, exploring the community, sharing interests, and helping people live fuller, more connected lives, we would love to hear from you.
Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Mileage reimbursement
Application Question(s):
- Why are the values of autonomy, voice, and choice important in this field?
Work Location: In person
