Life Skills DSP

In Flight•Poughkeepsie, NY

About The Position

In Flight, Inc. is a nonprofit providing home- and community-based support services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Life Skills Counselor works in the ISAIL (In Flight Success Academy for Independent Living) Program in Hyde Park, at Lonely Worm Farm. The program provides opportunities for young adults with IDD to build independent-living, community-integration, and social skills. The role supports participants in developing basic life skills, community awareness, and employment skills. The counselor promotes self-advocacy and independence by instructing participants in daily living activities, supporting individualized outcomes and choices, and providing protective oversight based on each person’s needs. Work is conducted off site, and staff are expected to represent the ISAIL program professionally in the community. The position includes monthly supervision meetings and timely documentation of services. Benefits are offered to positions of 30 hours or more.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Written and communication skills.
Clean New York State driver’s license acceptable to the insurance company.
Patience, a personable demeanor, and excellent communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree.
Experience working with the IDD population.
Experience with employment training and vocational settings.

Responsibilities

Work with people supported to achieve valued outcomes in their individualized service plans.
Assist and supervise participants in the environment of their choice.
Support participants in reaching their potential through community integration.
Assist with program planning and training toward independence and choice.
Help participants become self-sufficient, self-advocating, self-driven, and self-actualized.
Provide protective oversight based on each participant’s needs.
Teach personal hygiene and self-care.
Provide skill-building services for continued development of daily living skills.
Support community inclusion, including using libraries and recreation centers, shopping, and basic money management such as making purchases and counting change.
Help participants make informed choices and advocate for themselves.
Provide travel training, including using trains and buses and making transfers.
Teach appropriate social skills and support behavior and relationship building.
Teach safety in the community and home, including crossing streets and seeking help.
Submit timely paperwork documenting services provided to each person supported.
Act as a professional role model and maintain a professional manner and presentation.
Represent the ISAIL program professionally in the community while working off site.
Meet monthly with the supervisor for supervision.
Attend mandatory trainings as needed.