Respite Connections (Saturdays) Direct Support Professionals
About The Position
The Family Resource Network (FRN) is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals in New Jersey affected by epilepsy, autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and chronic illnesses. With over 30 programs and services, FRN has supported thousands of families for more than five decades, also organizing community events like the “Walk for the ONE” 5k and the Autism Beach Bash. As a statewide organization, FRN serves over 3,500 individuals directly and provides training and education to 80,000 annually, focusing on community-based programs that address the evolving needs of individuals and families. FRN fosters a values-driven culture emphasizing respect, integrity, and teamwork, aiming to create a supportive and collaborative workplace where every team member can thrive while making a meaningful impact. The Respite Connections Direct Support Professional (DSP) role is part of a Saturday respite program for youth aged 3-21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This program runs two Saturdays per month from 10 am to 2 pm, offering enrichment activities to boost social skills and confidence, and supporting the development of hobbies, social interaction, and character. The DSP assists the On-Site Program Lead in ensuring safe and appropriate services and supervises the youth participants.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent required.
- Must be 18 years old.
- Minimum of one-year experience in working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities.
Nice To Haves
- Associate Degree preferred.
- Related course work or experience with children with challenging behaviors a plus.
Responsibilities
- Ensures that all work is carried out in a manner that is both respectful and empowering to families and individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Assists the Program Lead with care and supervision of children attending the Respite Connections program.
- Participates in the program’s wide array of indoor and outdoor activities including arts, crafts, games, music, dance and educational projects, and group activities.
- Assists in ensuring the comfort, health safety, and well-being of all program participants.
- Is attentive, flexible, and supportive of youth enrolled in program.
- Encourages and models social behavior and appropriate self-expression.
- Provides input at staff or family meetings and as needed discussing participant wellbeing, behaviors, and program quality.
- Based on need, may be required to travel to other after-school program locations to fill in if short staffed.
- Maintains CPR/First Aid certification (every two years) and Handle with Care annually, along with other job requirements as necessary.
- Completes 6 professional development hours annually.
- Other duties as assigned by your supervisor and/or Family Support Services Manager.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly rates for opportunities for annual increases
- Flexible scheduling options
- Paid sick leave
- 403(b) employer match and contribution based on years and service and hours worked
- Technology provided
- Mileage reimbursement for applicable positions
- Paid and ongoing training opportunities for all staff, including CPR/First Aid certification
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
Number of Employees
11-50 employees
