IRA-DSP-1

New Hope Community, Inc.•Town of Fallsburg, NY

7d•$17 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional I (DSP-I) provides compassionate, person-centered support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in New Hope Community's Individualized Residential Alternative (IRA) homes. DSPs assist individuals in leading safe, healthy, meaningful, and independent lives while respecting each person's dignity, preferences, rights, and goals. The DSP is much more than a caregiver. They are a teacher, mentor, advocate, coach, companion, and trusted member of each person's support team. Working in partnership with the individuals we support, families, healthcare professionals, and fellow employees, the DSP helps transform a house into a home where every individual has opportunities to grow, make choices, develop relationships, and participate fully in community life.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED (unless enrolled in Associate DSP Program)
Ability to complete all required OPWDD and New Hope Community training.
Ability to obtain SCIP, CPR, First Aid, and Medication Administration Certification.
Valid New York State Driver's License for Driver positions.
Driving record acceptable under New Hope Community insurance standards.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
Human Services, healthcare, education, or caregiving experience.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Provide individualized supports that promote each person's independence, dignity, and quality of life.
Develop meaningful, respectful relationships built on trust.
Encourage independence in daily activities.
Promote informed choice and self-advocacy.
Assist individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individualized Service Plan (ISP).
Teach life skills through encouragement rather than simply performing tasks for individuals.
Respect privacy, individuality, culture, beliefs, and personal preferences.
Utilize positive behavior support techniques while maintaining a calm and respectful environment.
Provide assistance based upon each individual's unique abilities and needs.
Assist individuals in maintaining a clean, safe, comfortable home.
Preparing nutritious meals
Grocery shopping
Laundry
Cleaning common living areas
Bedroom organization (as desired by the individual)
Household sanitation
Maintaining inventories
Assisting individuals in caring for their personal belongings
Supporting budgeting and shopping skills when appropriate
Administer medications according to OPWDD regulations.
Accurately document medication administration.
Monitor for medication side effects.
Report concerns to nursing staff immediately.
Maintain current Medication Administration Certification.
Support individuals in living active and fulfilling lives.
Safely transport individuals using agency vehicles.
Conduct required vehicle inspections.
Follow defensive driving practices.
Assist passengers entering and exiting vehicles safely.
Maintain a valid New York State driver's license and acceptable driving record.
Complete accurate and timely documentation including: Daily progress notes, Goal documentation, Medication Administration Records (MARs), Incident Reports, Accident Reports, Behavior documentation, Communication logs, Electronic Health Records, Required OPWDD documentation.
Maintain a safe living environment by: Following infection control procedures, Recognizing medical emergencies, Implementing emergency evacuation procedures, Utilizing SCIP interventions when appropriate, Reporting abuse, neglect, or significant incidents immediately, Maintaining CPR, First Aid, SCIP, and required certifications, Maintaining a clean and hazard-free home.
Work collaboratively with: House Managers, Assistant House Managers, Registered Nurses, Physicians, Therapists, Families, Care Coordinators, Day Program staff, Fellow Direct Support Professionals.
Participate in: Team meetings, Shift communication, Training, Continuous quality improvement, Person-centered planning.