Direct Support Professional - Personal Supports (Saturday and Sunday 1pm - 5pm)

Overview: We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide personal support for an individual with Autism and Epilepsy/Seizure Disorder. The ideal candidate will assist the individual in safely participating in community activities, ensuring her well-being while fostering her independence and personal interests.

Location: Silver Spring, MD

Key Responsibilities:

• Community Engagement:

• Accompany to various community activities, including trips to the park, shopping, dining out, and other activities of their choice.
• Encourage and support participation in these activities, ensuring enjoyment while exploring their interests.

• Safety Monitoring:

• Ensure the individual’s safety during community outings, particularly as they may not fully understand community safety protocols.
• Remain vigilant for potential seizure triggers and know how to respond appropriately in case of an emergency.

• Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):

• Provide direct support for personal care needs, including restroom assistance and any other hygiene-related tasks.
• Encourage autonomy in personal care where possible, supporting the individual to gain confidence in their abilities.

• Emotional Support and Interaction:

• Foster a positive and engaging relationship, encouraging their interests in singing, reading, and dancing.
• Use verbal communication to understand and respond to the individual’s wants and needs, ensuring they feel heard and valued.

• Collaborative Support:

• Work closely with the individual’s family to understand their specific needs, preferences, and safety measures.
• Participate in regular communication with family to provide updates on the individual’s activities and any concerns that may arise.

Candidate Qualities:

• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional, caregiver, or in a related field is preferred.
• Understanding of Autism and Epilepsy/Seizure Disorder and the ability to support individuals with these conditions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with individuals with diverse needs.
• Knowledge of community safety measures and emergency response protocols.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage effectively with the individual and their family.

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 sensitivity to the service p