Day Services DSP

Abilities First•Poughkeepsie, NY

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Abilities First, Inc. is seeking a full-time Day Services Specialist to provide direct support to individuals with developmental disabilities in both Day Habilitation and Community Connections settings. This role assists individuals in maximizing their personal, social, and vocational potential through structured program activities at the center and meaningful experiences in the community. The Day Services Specialist delivers hands-on support, implements individualized service plans, and documents progress toward personal goals. Responsibilities include facilitating daily living skills, promoting independence, and encouraging participation in recreational, vocational, and community-based activities such as outings, fitness, and social engagement. This position may function as a floater, supporting multiple program sites or individuals based on staffing and attendance needs. Flexibility and adaptability are essential, as assignments may vary between center-based services and one-on-one community support. Day Services Specialists play a key role in empowering individuals to live their best lives by providing mentorship, fostering independence, and creating engaging opportunities aligned with each person’s interests and goals. All required training is provided.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
Must have a current NYS driver’s license deemed “acceptable” by our insurance carrier.
Possess verbal and written communication skills in English to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.
Current SCIP R certification, Medication Administration certification, CPR certification, and SFA certification or the ability to achieve certification required.

Nice To Haves

Flexibility and adaptability are essential, as assignments may vary between center-based services and one-on-one community support.

Responsibilities

Deliver and document services, supports, and safeguards in accordance with each individual’s ISP, Day Habilitation Plan, and Community Habilitation Staff Action Plan; complete required monthly documentation within designated timelines.
Provide direct personal care as needed, including assistance with toileting, hygiene, mobility, and daily health needs; accurately document observations such as skin integrity and other required health tracking.
Support individuals in developing independence in daily living skills, including personal hygiene, self-care, meal preparation, household tasks, and maintaining an organized environment.
Facilitate skill-building in community integration, including use of public transportation, participation in recreational activities, and appropriate social behavior in public settings.
Promote independence in areas such as personal health management, financial skills (e.g., money use and transactions), and overall wellness.
Demonstrate proficiency in the NYS DSP Core Competencies and apply person-centered practices in all interactions.
Transport individuals to community activities, appointments, and program locations as needed.
Complete and submit required documentation, including billing records, in a timely and accurate manner.
Mobility training for maximum independence in travel to and from work or activity center, community stores, recreational sites, etc. It included training in the use of public transportation.
Training in appropriate social behaviors which are normative in both the community and household settings such as conducting oneself appropriately in restaurants, on public transportation vehicles, in recreational facilities, and in stores and other public places.
Meet regularly as per oversight agencies and service program requires.
Fulfills mandated reporter role by initialing protective measures, as needed and reporting suspected abuse to administration immediately.
Ensures all required trainings and certifications required are current, and seeks further support and training where needed.
Adhere to agency Code of Legal and Ethical Behavior, which require all employees, consultants, board members, volunteers and affiliates to perform their responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty, integrity, fairness, good faith and respect for others and the law.
Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and the safety of others.
Performs other appropriate job-related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant.
Will incorporate CORE concepts of person-centered excellence by respecting people’s concerns and responding accordingly and will use “teachable moments” to assist people in understanding and exercising their rights.