The Day Support DSP is responsible for the implementation of Individual Service Plans (ISPs) through support and development of the ability of the individual we support to acquire, retain, or improve skills necessary to build positive social behavior, employability, interpersonal competence, greater independence, and personal choice while at the activity center or in the community.

This is a non-exempt position, which can be part time or full time.  The incumbent reports to the Day Support Manager.

  • Location: Charlottesville, VA
  • Full-time, 40 hours per week. Mon – Fri 8a-4p
  • $16-$18/hour

JOB DUTIES: 

  • Implements the Individual Service/Program Plans by effectively teaching and supporting individuals as outlined in the plan.  Applies positive, non-aversive approaches to providing support.
  • Observes the individual’s participation and progress in meeting the goals and objectives outlined in the Individual Service or Program.  Assists the Day Support Manager in the development and/or revision of plans to better meet the needs of each individual.
  • Assures a caring, stimulating program environment.  Initiates projects that create a supportive program environment while including individuals in the process to the furthest extent possible for each individual.  Provides recommendations to the Day Support Manager for program changes.
  • Maintains daily, weekly, and other regularly scheduled documentation and reports regarding individual activities, programs, and their progress.  Maintains documentation as required and within required timeframes.  Uses professional, person-centered language in the completion of all documentation.
  • Assists individuals with medication administration while assuring its accuracy.  Monitors individuals to assess medication effectiveness and side effects reporting observations to Day Support Manager for follow up.  Notes and reports errors in medication administration.
  • May involve, as required, personal care that may include toileting, changing briefs, bathing, and feeding.
  • Plans and initiates a variety of on-site and community based recreational activities, which incorporate individual preferences and skills as well as concepts of self-direction, interpersonal competence, and community engagement.
  • Assures the safety of individuals and makes reasonable efforts to protect individuals from harm, abuse, and exploitation.  Immediately reports any concerns or observations of potential harm, abuse, or exploitation.
  • Utilizes necessary equipment to assure the safe transfer of the individuals we support, as well as protecting ones self from personal injury (i.e. training and use of the Hoyer Lifts.)
  • Assures the program facility is safe and secure, reports immediately any identified safety concerns and takes action to address or protect the individuals including contacting emergency services or police as needed.
  • Provides safe transportation to individuals when necessary for daily commuting, employment, healthcare needs, and functions of community life.
  • Attends staff meetings as scheduled; attends other required trainings and meetings to maintain knowledge, skills and abilities.
  • Provides residential day support to homebound Adult Activity Center participants when the Adult Activity Center is closed or delayed due to inclement weather.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of:  intellectual and developmental disabilities; concepts and principles of barrier-free environments, person-centered principles, self-direction, interpersonal competence, community resources, health and safety needs, independent living needs of persons with disabilities.

Skills:  safe operation of passenger vehicles as evidenced by a valid Virginia driving license and an acceptable Department of Motor Vehicle driving record, CPR/First Aid procedures, crisis prevention, positive behavioral supports, intervention and emergency responses, and documentation.

Ability:  to lift and transfer at least 50 pounds and, for transfers of the individuals we support, utilizes appropriate equipment (i.e. Hoyer Lift) to prevent personal injury, or injury to the individual being supported. Must work independently; follow directions; communicate verbally and in writing; interact effectively and courteously with a variety of individuals, teach effectively, and provide personal assistance.

 

SUGGESTED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

High School Diploma or equivalent (e.g. GED) or any combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.  Successful completion of The Arc of the Piedmont’s staff certification program.