Direct Support Professional (Full-Time) in Stratford, Connecticut at Alternatives, Inc.

Alternatives Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has provided day program and residential services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since July 1995. We operate eight programs across Naugatuck, Waterbury, and Stratford. Our mission is to support a healthy and safe community that values respect, diversity, and happiness

Our day program offers a community experience, life skills development, and small work activities designed to build confidence and encourage independence. Participants come to us from other organizations, their family homes, and Alternatives' own group homes.

We provide three types of group homes: Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF), Community Living Arrangements (CLA), and Continuous Residential Supports (CRS). Each ICF and CLA is staffed by a dedicated team of direct support professionals, LPNs, and a residential manager to ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals we serve. Our CRS homes are supported by direct support professionals and a residential manager. All programs operate under RN oversight.

Every one of our group homes has been built or renovated within the last ten years, with the modern conveniences needed to promote a safe, fun, and thriving environment. Backed by a stable workforce, we deliver the best possible care and advocate for the individuals we support.

Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Reports to: Program Manager

Position: Full-Time

Pay Rate: $19/hr

Schedule: Sun 3p-10p, Mon 3p-10p, Thu 3p-10p, Sat 7a-10p

Med Cert or Eligible to become Med Cert

*Experience with Behavior Needs Preferred*

Function: To be a patient, encouraging and supportive Direct Support Professional. You are the caregiver, cheerleader, and advocate all rolled into one. The work you do at Alternatives, Inc. can enhance the lives of many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Health: Support our individuals to have optimal health and well-being. Monitor medical conditions and administer medications when directed. Ensure our individuals are free from abuse & neglect. Complete all necessary reporting and documentation.

Safety: Keep our individuals safe. Safely assist our individuals when entering and exiting vehicles and buildings. Supervise mealtimes based on personal needs. Follow appropriate staffing ratios. Report unsafe conditions to the Program Manager. Follow all safety policies to foster a safe working environment.

Time: Positively represent our individuals’ skills to succeed. Uphold agency mission & values. Understand and follow through with agency policy and procedures. Communicate positively and clearly with Managers/co-workers and others around you. Complete required training in timely manner. Maintain satisfactory attendance and complete all assigned tasks on shift.

Mind: Support our individuals to achieve their personal outcomes. Help individuals make their own choices, understand and learn. Support our individuals with their daily living skills and hygiene needs. Assist our participants with positive behavioral techniques to promote dignity and respect.

Spirit: Support our individuals and encourage meaningful interactions. Assist with community outings and in-house recreation. Create a therapeutic environment rich in experiences and activity that promote personal growth and development.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid CT Driver's License
• Drive Agency Vehicle (Mini Vans and High Top Transit Vans)
• Ability to pass a background check
• CPR Certified or Eligible to become CPR Certified
• Receive Annual Flu Vaccine