Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Day/Community Habilitation

UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY ASSOCIATION OF THE NORTH COUNTRY•Town of Canton, NY

10h•Hybrid

About The Position

Join Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country's Day and Community Habilitation team as a Direct Support Professional and help adults with developmental disabilities live full, self-directed lives. In this role, you’ll provide hands-on support that empowers independence, builds daily living skills, and fosters meaningful connections in the community. If you’re compassionate, dependable, and committed to inclusion, this is an opportunity to turn your values into impact. The Direct Support Professional partners with adults with developmental disabilities to build meaningful, person-centered lives defined by their own choices and goals. Through collaboration, advocacy, and teaching, this role supports independence, daily living skills, and community connections while fostering an environment of dignity, respect, and inclusion guided by our commitment to equitable, accessible, and high-quality services.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required.
Successful completion of the Agency orientation and training program.
NYS Driver’s License with two years of driving experience required.
Acceptable motor vehicle abstract to meet Agency insurability standards.
Reliable personal vehicle for business use.
Heavy work; ability to frequently lift 25 – 50 lbs., and transfer and support individuals with and without help.
Physical strength to safely respond should a behavioral crisis occur.
Ability to operate personal and Agency vehicles.
Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time.
Some exposure to infectious diseases, hygiene issues, food, and other odors.
Able to tolerate atmospheric conditions when performing regular outdoor seasonal activities.
Ability to operate mechanical devices used by individuals.

Responsibilities

Responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and overall well-being of individuals.
Provides attentive, compassionate care and supervision at all times.
Promotes self-advocacy by supporting individuals in evaluating choices, solving problems, and developing coping skills.
Recognizes and appropriately responds to medical, behavioral, or safety concerns.
Responsible for promoting community participation and inclusion.
Accompanies and supports individuals in accessing social, educational, vocational, and recreational opportunities.
Teaches skills that encourage independence, such as navigating transportation, using community resources, and interacting with others.
Fosters community connections that increase belonging and reduce barriers to participation.
Responsible for supporting the development of positive personal relationships.
Guides and encourages individuals in maintaining respectful, supportive relationships with peers, family members, and community partners.
Models effective communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution strategies.
Provides coaching that builds confidence in social interactions.
Responsible for active collaboration and communication with team members.
Participates fully in staff meetings, contributing observations, feedback, and recommendations.
Partners with colleagues to share best practices and create innovative, person-centered approaches.
Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and alignment with organizational values in all interactions.
Responsible for teaching and reinforcing daily living and self-care skills.
Assists individuals in areas such as personal hygiene, nutrition, budgeting, and home management.
Teaches skills that enhance independence and long-term quality of life.
Encourages healthy habits that promote overall wellness and self-sufficiency.
Responsible for accurate documentation and compliance.
Completes timely, thorough documentation of services, progress, and outcomes.
Prepares notes for billing and program reporting in accordance with regulatory and agency requirements.
Maintains confidentiality and adheres to professional standards.
Responsible for safe and reliable transportation.
Transports individuals to scheduled activities, appointments, and community events.
Ensures that all transportation practices meet safety standards and support individual needs.
Assists individuals in developing travel skills to increase independence.
Responsible for family and advocate engagement.
Communicates regularly and respectfully with families, advocates, and other support networks.
Shares progress, concerns, and successes to promote continuity of care.
Collaborates with natural supports to advance person-centered goals.
Responsible for flexibility and responsiveness to individual needs.
Works a varied schedule, including evenings and weekends, to ensure meaningful opportunities for engagement.
Adjusts supports to meet changing circumstances and priorities.
Remains adaptable and proactive in addressing challenges.
Responsible for additional program and agency support.
Carries out other duties as assigned by supervisors to ensure quality care and program effectiveness.
Contributes to a positive, respectful, and mission-driven workplace culture.