Direct Support Professional Personal Asst in Louisville, Kentucky at Dreams with Wings Inc

Mission Statement

The Mission of Dreams with Wings is to empower children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism to enhance their strengths, contribute to their community and live a lifetime of purpose.

Vision Statement

The Vision of Dreams with Wings is to be innovative in person centered support to enable individuals to live their best life through creating a sense of belonging and value. The vision is supported by staff who are unwavering in compassion for those we are privileged to support.

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Personal Assistance Program provides one-on-one support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to enhance community involvement, cultivate friendships, build daily independence skills, and work toward personal goals developed through the individual’s plan of care.

This position is classified as an Essential Worker role and is responsible for the care, training, safety, and supervision of individuals receiving services through the Personal Assistance program. The DSP functions as a member of the Dreams With Wings team and may provide supplementary services to any individual served by the agency. This position reports to the Director of Community Support Services.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and model the mission, vision, core values, and professional standards of Dreams With Wings in all interactions.
• Provide individualized, person-centered support tailored to the needs and goals of each participant.
• Serve as a mandated reporter by recognizing and immediately reporting any suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation in accordance with agency policy and state regulations.

Community & Skill

• Ensure individuals have access to meaningful community opportunities aligned with their interests and goals to support skill generalization and confidence in a variety of settings.
• Provide transportation using a personal vehicle (with required insurance) or assist individuals in navigating public or rideshare transportation safely.
• Assist in the development and implementation of person-centered goals with the individual and interdisciplinary team.
• Encourage community participation, social engagement, and the cultivation of friendships both within the home and in the broader community.
• Provide guidance on social skills, judgment, natural supports, and health and safety awareness.

Person-Centered Support & Daily Life

• Support individuals in exercising and understanding their rights and encourage constructive conflict resolution strategies.
• Assist with daily living skills, including personal hygiene, dressing, grooming, ambulation, meal planning and preparation, laundry, and home care as needed.
• Support self-administration of medication when appropriate; administer medication only if properly trained and authorized.
• Assist with personal financial responsibilities as needed.
• Adjust levels of support to promote independence and reduce dependency whenever possible.
• Always prioritize dignity, autonomy, and the individual’s right to choice.

Health & Safety

• Ensure the physical, emotional, and environmental safety of individuals at all times.
• Monitor for signs of illness, injury, behavioral challenges, or medical concerns and communicate promptly with the Director of Community Support Services and team members.
• Complete Incident/Critical Incident Reports as required.
• Encourage individuals to maintain healthy lifestyles, including exercise and informed decision-making.
• Be trained in and responsible for the prevention, identification, and reporting of suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Demonstrate flexibility and continuity of services during community emergencies, including working at alternate locations if required.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation reflecting progress toward individual outcomes and any concerns.
• Complete required Dreams With Wings tracking sheets and documentation in accordance with state regulations and agency standards.
• Attend all required DDID-mandated training and agency meetings.
• Operate within all applicable state regulations and Dreams With Wings policies.

Professional Conduct

• Consistently act in a professional and respectful manner toward individuals supported, families, and team members.
• Demonstrate honesty, reliability, and accountability by arriving on time, keeping commitments, and following through on responsibilities.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully in verbal and written interactions.
• Foster a positive environment where each individual’s dignity, choices, and cultural background are respected.
• Program Support & Organizational Contribution
• Participate in individual vacations and Dreams With Wings-sponsored events as assigned.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support program operations and participant needs.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• At least 21 years of age; OR at least 18 years of age with one year of experience as a direct-contact staff supporting individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities or Autism.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification required.
• Annual TB test required.
• Valid driver’s license and proof of current automobile insurance required.
• Ability to lift, transfer, and assist individuals as needed (minimum 50 lbs).

Preferred Experience

• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and/or autism.

Work Schedule

• Full-time or part-time.
• Evening, weekend, and additional hours may be required based on program needs.
• Maintain schedule continuity for individuals served
• Be available to support services during community emergencies, including working at alternate locations when required

Employment Status

• Non-Exempt
• Hourly

Occupational Exposure

This position may involve routine exposure to blood or bodily fluids.