Direct Support Specialist (DSP) - IDD

Job Description

Job Description

Peacehaven is searching for a compassionate individual to support adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) — for the role of Direct Support Professional (DSP). These DSPs may work across multiple environments, including within the member home, the community, Residential settings, day programs, and/or our RISE & SHINE program. R.I.S.E. Day Program utilizing Initial Supported Employment Training, Community Living and Supports, and Day Support Services.

Part-Time and Full-Time opportunities.

DSPs at Peacehaven assist children and adults with I/DD work towards their individual goals and support their integrated participation in all aspects of daily life. The ideal candidate for this position integrates the position's responsibilities in an organic way that fosters autonomy and growth. This role requires trust, collaboration, flexibility, and communication to ensure all members of the Peacehaven community thrive in their learning, working, and playing together.

Performing The Job:

• Adhere to Peacehaven standards and best practices, designed to ensure a healthy culture that embodies Peacehaven’s Mission, Vision, and Core Values.
• Document progress of individual(s) supported, incidents, strengths, needs, and other relevant matters via our Electronic Heath Record (EHR), OnTarget, and maintaining other electronic documentation and communication on a daily basis.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with family members, work associates, and community members to ensure a positive environment for all.
• Work in an immersive and integrated community to support growth and new skill-building while supporting a healthy lifestyle.
• Comfort, celebrate, motivate and encourage individuals you are supporting and other team members.
• Primary daily duties, and responsibilities include, but are not limited to,
• Supporting personal goals such as physical exercise, vocational training, individual food plans, hobbies, social connections, money management and/or performing tasks that encourage an appropriate level of independence.
• Transportation to jobs, day programs, outings, activities, routine medical appointments, and any other needs related to the service recipient and their care.
• Communicating effectively and advocating with staff and families / guardians.
• Works with staff, volunteers, and families to assure that the least restrictive environment is available to help individuals grow and flourish and their rights are honored.
• Maintain member expenses as needed.
• Participate in a variety of meetings including Peacehaven staff and training meetings, community life meetings, and other meetings as scheduled. Peacehaven will host mandatory All Staff meetings on average 1x Monthly.
• Embody the mission and vision of Peacehaven by modeling the core values.
• Undertake other duties as assigned by members of leadership.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to model and encourage healthy behavior for individuals in social situations, house relationships, facilitating healthy lifestyle choices, and maintaining household cleanliness.
• Effective oral and written English communication skills.
• Desire to work in an environment where varied beliefs, spiritual, and philosophical backgrounds are respected and encouraged.
• Maturity as demonstrated by the ability to work cooperatively as part of a team.
• Ability to learn about intellectual disabilities, mental health, health disorders, simple nursing care, behavior management strategies, personal hygiene, etc.
• Ability to complete and retain necessary training and documentation, with a willingness to obtain additional training (CPR, First Aid, NCI, HIPAA, Client Rights, Bloodborne Pathogens, etc.).
• Honor the confidentiality of participants, records, practices, and business efforts.

Minimum Requirements:

• Ability to work as a member of a team and non-profit.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive comfortably in the city.
• A vehicle to provide transportation when accessing the community with your member.
• Discrete and confidential in handling private information.
• Ability to pass background checks.
• Valid North Carolina or international driver’s license, and North Carolina auto insurance.
• High school or equivalent diploma and be at least 18 years of age.
• Applicants need to have healthy strategies for self-care and physical well-being.
• Must be drug free.
• Able to work in a tobacco-free environment.