Respite Connections DSP
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Respite Connections is a Saturday respite program for youth ages 3-21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program takes place two Saturdays per month and provides enrichment activities to enhance the social skills and confidence of program participants. Respite Connections is designed to support the development of hobbies, social interaction, and character development. The Respite Connections DSP assists the Program Lead to ensure safe and appropriate services are delivered and supervises youth enrolled in the program.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:
- Ensure that all work is carried out in a manner that is both respectful and empowering to families and individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Assists the Program Lead with care and supervision of children attending the Respite Connections program.
- Participates in the program’s wide array of indoor and outdoor activities including arts, crafts, games, music, dance and educational projects, and group activities.
- Assists in ensuring the comfort, health safety, and well-being of all program participants.
- Is attentive, flexible, and supportive of youth enrolled in program.
- Encourages and models social behavior and appropriate self-expression.
- Provides input at staff or family meetings and as needed discussing participant wellbeing, behaviors, and program quality.
- Based on need, it may be required to travel to other after-school program locations to fill in if short staffed.
- Maintains CPR/First Aid certification (every two years) and Handle with Care annually, along with other job requirements, as necessary.
- Completes six professional development hours annually.
- Other duties as assigned by your supervisor and/or Family Support Services Manager.
QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION: High School Diploma or equivalent required. Associate degree preferred.
EXPERIENCE: Must be 18 years old. Minimum of one-year experience in working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities. Related course work or experience with children with challenging behaviors a plus.