Direct Support Professional - Group Home

Direct Support Professional - Group Home

NAFI Connecticut provides programs, consultation, and support services in a variety of settings across Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. We work with adults, children, and families to increase communication and social skills, improve relationships, increase circles of support, and provide therapeutic services based on best-practice research. We believe that people can change, and we work to empower each individual in their own care.

We are currently exploring candidates for Direct Support Professionals in our Corey Rd program in North Haven. Corey Rd provides long-term care for 3 men with intellectual disabilities in a community-based setting with the goal of helping them achieve their own personal outcomes. Direct Support staff help each individual increase his adaptive and daily living skills to maximize his levels of independence and community integration.

Responsibilities Include:

• Support Personal Growth: Assess client skills and provide counseling on independent living, coping strategies, and pro-social behaviors using behavior support plans.
• Guide and Inspire: Offer coaching on interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and managing peer pressure, while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
• Be a Role Model: Lead by example, demonstrate professionalism and positivity both in the community and within the organization.
• Provide Essential Care: Assist clients with daily living activities, prepare meals, and provide safe transportation as needed.
• Document Progress: Record client interactions and behavioral observations after each shift to ensure quality care.
• Stay Prepared: Participate in training sessions, team meetings, and maintain up-to-date certifications.
• Handle Challenges Confidently: Use crisis prevention, de-escalation techniques, and physical management when necessary and permitted.

Desired Qualifications/Skills:

• High School Diploma or GED (required)
• Valid Driver's License (required)
• Experience working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities, or Behavioral Health populations
• Prior experience in group homes, hospitals, human services, or behavioral health settings
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Personal Care Assistant (PCA) experience (preferred but not required)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with clients, families, and team members
• Knowledge of crisis prevention and de-escalation techniques (preferred)
• Familiarity with behavior support plans and implementation strategies
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building trust and rapport with clients
• Organizational and time management skills to handle documentation and daily responsibilities effectively
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the unique needs of each client
• Basic computer skills for completing documentation and reports
• CPR, First Aid, or other relevant certifications (preferred)

Our Exceptional Benefits:

• Generous paid time off.
• 3-6 weeks' vacation, 7 sick days, and 11 paid holidays each year.

Employee Health and Wellness:

• Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, prescription, and vision coverage (Reimbursements for fitness, weight loss, and holistic health programs).
• No-cost employee assistance program.
• Voluntary employee-focused wellness programs.

Retirement and Financial Planning:

• Company matching 403b and no-cost retirement consulting
• Company paid for life Insurance and long-term disability
• Public service loan forgiveness
• Insurance, including accident, hospital indemnity, and supplemental Life
• Pet Insurance
• Tuition reimbursement: Includes licensure fees, professional memberships

Inclusivity and Non-Discrimination Statement:

NAFI Connecticut, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, disability, or any other federal, state or local protected class. Inclusivity and removing barriers are important to us. We are passionate about instilling a sense of belonging, celebrating diverse perspectives, and offering equal opportunities for employees to contribute and grow. We encourage members of underrepresented or marginalized communities and all those who share in these beliefs to apply.

E-Verify Employer / Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action