Direct Support Professional

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) role is vital to assuring a high standard of care and quality of life for those whose lives are touched through the services provided. It includes developing positive rapport with people with disabilities, encouraging them to achieve their highest level of learning and independence, and assisting people to meet their personal goals. This position will assist with daily living, social, and problem-solving skills.

This position will serve as a role model while fostering positive interactions within home and community settings.

Poppy’s Promise is committing to assuring employees feel confident in their ability to carry out duties that integrate the following Core Competencies identified by the National Association of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP):

Participant empowerment (enhancing the ability of people to build self-esteem and make decisions consistent with same-aged peers)
Communication (being knowledgeable about the range of communication strategies available for people)
Assessment (being knowledgeable about assessment practices in order to respond to needs, wants and interests)
Community and serve networking (being knowledgeable about opportunities and supports available to enhance participation)
Facilitation of services (knowing about planning technique and demonstrating the ability to implement plans effectively)
Community living skills and supports (matching specific supports to the unique needs of people and recognizing the importance of friends, family and community relationships)
Education, training and self-development (identifying areas for self-improvement, pursuing training, and sharing knowledge with others)
Advocacy (identifying and using effective strategies to advocate for overcoming challenges people face – human rights, legal, financial, etc.)Vocational, educational and career support (being aware of preferences regarding education and jobs, for those of working age, and strategies to help reach goals in those areas)
Crisis prevention and intervention (being knowledgeable about approved strategies and use of least restrictive interventions)
Organizational participation (being familiar with the mission and practices of Poppy’s Promise and participating in the life of the organization)
Documentation (following requirements for documentation and managing those requirements effectively and meaningfully)
Building and maintaining relationships (supporting people to develop friendships and other relationships)
Providing person centered supports (understanding what is important to each person through continual listening and learning together with the person, their family and friends)
Supporting health and wellness (promoting exercise and healthy choices)
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Provide 1:1 support for those receiving services.

Continually supervise those served to ensure a safe, non-threatening, nurturing environment; where each person can thrive.

Assist with basic living, personal hygiene, and grooming skills to promote independence.

Accurately document activities and progress toward goals throughout each shift and provide an update to the parent/guardian.

Transport to and from activities, appointments, and social gatherings.

Attend all trainings required by Poppy’s Promise and maintain all certifications required.

Report potential abuse, neglect and exploitation as a mandatory reporter (DSPs meet the statutory definition of “mandatory reporter” and are required by law to report).May provide assistance with the administration of medications if needed and as determined by the person’s team.

Qualifications include:

Be at least 16 years of age.

Possess or be working toward a high school diploma or equivalent.

Have a valid driver’s license and proof of vehicle  able to complete and pass all criminal and personal background checks as well as random drug screenings.

Demonstrate the ability to communicate verbally and in writing in order to:

Complete required forms and reports of services provided.

Follow oral and written instructions.

Communicate with people using their preferred mode of  able to stand for extended periods of time and lift up to 50  able to respond to situations where people may attempt to run to or from an area (i.e. a small child running out into the street)
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