Direct Support Professional - Weekend Personal Supports (Saturday and Sunday 9am - 3pm)

Overview: We are seeking a caring and motivated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide personal support to an individual with intellectual disabilities. The ideal candidate will help enhance the individual’s independent living skills, improve his health, and engage meaningfully in his community.

Location: Silver Spring, MD

Key Responsibilities:

• Community Engagement: 

• Accompany individual to various community activities, such as movies, shopping, music stores, and dining experiences.
• Support in building social connections and relationships within the community by encouraging participation in local events.

• Independent Living Skills Development:

• Assist in developing the individual’s financial skills by guiding them through successful shopping trips, including budgeting and making informed purchasing decisions.
• Work daily living skills within their home, such as meal preparation, cleaning, and organizing, to foster greater independence.

• Health and Wellness Support:

• Help in managing his diabetes by encouraging healthy eating habits and monitoring dietary choices during community outings.
• Support in reducing his smoking levels by providing motivation and strategies to cope with cravings.

• Medication Management: 

• Help individual manage and take their medication, particularly during times of anxiety.
• Assist with medication management and adherence as needed, ensuring to follow health care plan.
• Monitor and report any changes in emotional or physical well-being.

• Skill Building:
  • Collaborate to set personal goals related to the individual’s health and independent living skills.
  • Provide constructive feedback and celebrate achievements to boost the individual’s confidence and motivation.

Candidate Qualities:

• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional, caregiver, or in a related field is preferred.
• Knowledge of intellectual disabilities, diabetes management, and mental health support.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and foster trust with individuals.
• Understanding of financial literacy concepts and basic budgeting practices.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Required Qualifications:

• Fully Vaccinated against COVID-19
• High School Diploma
• Valid Driver’s License
• Possess a strong service orientation, including active listening, critical thinking skills, and close monitoring of individuals supported.
• Comfortable in an environment where individuals supported may not be able to perform essential life duties.
• Ability to work professionally and discretely with confidential information.
• High level of personal and professional integrity.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in a verbal and written manner.
• Demonstrates