Direct Support Professional

Position Purpose:
The Direct Support Professional is responsible for safety and supervision of our consumers with homelessness and possible Behavioral health histories to facilitate healthy and socially acceptable behaviors while living in community-based sites. This position will coordinate with clinical staff, implement residentially based interventions and assist the clients in achieving their clinical assignments. The DSP is responsible for fulfilling the obligations as outlined in the client’s program plan. The DSP will prompt or assist, as necessary, to ensure the clients participate in the activities of daily living, in both the home and the community. A commitment to the RHD values should be demonstrated as job duties are performed.

• Full Time Tuesday through Saturday 7a-3pm.
• Full Time Friday through Monday 3-11pm and Saturdays 7-3p.
• Additional On Call Availabilities.

Program Summary:
RHD Montgomery County Homeless Services and Genny’s Place offers a safe place to stay and assistance for individuals experiencing homelessness, helping them transition towards independent living. The program is a partnership between Your Way Home, Montgomery County’s Office of Behavioral Health, and Resources for Human Development. The program specifically caters to single adults without housing. Clients have access to dedicated caseworkers who help them find permanent housing and apply for necessary benefits. Additionally, we provide practical support such as laundry facilities, transportation, meals, clothing, and essential life skills training.

• Provide supervision of individuals in accordance with their Person-Centered Support Plan.
• Administer Medication as needed.
• Provide transportation to consumers.
• Support consumers in activities of daily living such as meal prep, toileting, personal hygiene, as appropriate.
• Assist in Community Integration Activities and access to community Supports including medical appointments, social security access, etc.
• Complete required documentation in a timely manner.
• Follow incident management reporting procedures.
• Provide care that’s trauma informed.
• Monitor the site, including laundry and outdoor smoking areas.
• Encourage and assist with tasks as needed.
• Distribute meals and provide additional meals to residents when requested.
• Communicate with co-workers and supervisors regarding any problems or critical areas that need special attention or monitoring.
• Assist and encourage clients with job and apartment searches.
• Complete new resident intakes as necessary.
• Utilize crisis intervention and de-escalation skills as necessary.
• Other duties as assigned.

Other details:

• Effective Communication: Ability to clearly and respectfully communicate with residents, families, staff, and external agencies. Demonstrates active listening and ensures transparency in all interactions.
• Ethical Practice: Upholds confidentiality, integrity, and ethical standards in all interactions and decisions, ensuring the rights and dignity of residents are prioritized.
• Leadership and Accountability: Provides clear direction to staff, models positive behaviors, and takes responsibility for the success of the residential program. Holds self and team members accountable for meeting expectations and standards.
• Collaboration: Works collaboratively with other professionals, families, and community partners to ensure quality care and services are provided to residents.
• Cultural Humility: Demonstrates respect for and understanding of the diverse backgrounds, needs, and perspectives of residents, staff, and families, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
• Problem Solving and Conflict Resolution: Approaches challenges with a solution-focused mindset, resolving issues in a fair and timely manner, while maintaining professionalism and promoting a positive atmosphere.
• Adherence to Policies and Procedure s: Ensures compliance with all regulatory and organizational standards, maintaining a safe, respectful, and efficient residential environment.

ADHERE TO AND FOLLOW: The By-Laws of the Corporation and as set forth in the Articles of Incorporation.

• High School diploma or GED is required.
• Proficiency in reading, writing, and documenting in English required.

Job Competencies:

• Basic computer and internet literacy with the ability to utilize applications like emails, time recording and other programs to enter and retrieve data as necessary to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Prior experience in the human services field, preferred.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Subject to employment screenings, including FBI clearance. if applicable.