Human First, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization serving the developmentally disabled communities of New York City. Founded in 2001, our multicultural agency is committed to creating positive relationships and safe environments across New York communities.

Our Mission is to provide enhanced opportunities for individuals with special needs to reach their personal goals. Through the development of effective support systems for previously underserved populations, Human First impacts the lives of more than 1,400 families across New York City.

Our culturally trained, multilingual staff deliver a range of person-centered services, including Community Habilitation, Day Habilitation and Residential Services. Known for serving individuals who are emotionally challenged and medically frail, Human First has been recognized by the city and state for our outstanding contributions to high quality care.

Human First, Inc. is a subsidiary of ADAPT Community Network.

SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the program director or designee, the Residence Program Specialist is responsible for supporting the care, development, and independence of individuals living in a Human First residential facility. This role fosters dignity, respect, and learning while helping to create a safe, supportive, and homelike environment. The Residence Program Specialist provides direct support, skill-building, and advocacy to ensure that the people we support achieve their personal goals and enjoy the highest quality of life possible.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties and responsibilities of the Residence Program Specialist will include, but are not limited to the following:

• Provides care and supports the people we support in achieving greater independence and personal development.
• Ensures the safety, health, and well-being of the people we support at all times.
• Teaches and assists with activities of daily living (ADLs), including self-help, social, and community living skills.
• Maintains a personalized, homelike, and respectful atmosphere within the residence.
• Participates actively in interdisciplinary treatment plans and implements individualized program goals.
• Documents daily activities, progress notes, incident reports, and other required records accurately and in a timely manner.
• Responds to crisis situations and medical emergencies, including providing first aid and contacting emergency personnel as needed.
• Contacts emergency personnel (police, fire, ambulance) when necessary to ensure safety of the people we support and staff.
• Ensures all actions are conducted in a manner that prevents abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and immediately reports any concerns in accordance with agency policy.
• Follows all OPWDD-approved behavior management guidelines, including use of approved interventions when required.
• Administers medications as an Approved Medication Administration Personnel (AMAP), following agency protocols and under nursing supervision.
• Provides transportation for the people we support to program, work, appointments, and recreational activities as needed.
• Assists with meal planning, grocery shopping, and meal preparation to promote nutrition and independence.
• Participates in housekeeping, laundry, and light maintenance tasks to ensure a safe, clean, and supportive environment.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings, trainings, and in-service sessions to support ongoing development and quality care.
• Promotes dignity, respect, and person-centered approaches in all interactions with the people we support, families, and staff.
• Maintains confidentiality of all resident information and documentation.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Six months of related experience is preferred but not required.
• Employees must be approved Medication Administration Personnel (AMAP) at time of hire or within six months of date of hire.
• Valid New York State Driver’s License, maintained in good standing
• Ability to read, write, speak and understand English.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for working effectively with the people we support, families, coworkers, and community partners.
• Ability to respond appropriately to crisis situations and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding the rights of the people we support.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

COMPENSATION: $20.17/hour (after probation) + Industry-Leading Benefits!

At ADAPT & Human First, we value diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging. We strive to ensure that our employees are comfortable bringing their whole, authentic self to work and that the people we support can also be their authentic selves. We value diverse backgrounds, opinions, ideas, and ways of thinking. We aim to build an inclusive and diverse workforce that is empowered and supported by leaders who create diverse and inclusive teams. We continuously seek opportunities for the organization to foster a more positive, respected, united, and collaborative culture.

ADAPT Community Network & Human First are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Qualified candidates of diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds and status are encouraged to apply for vacant positions at all levels.