What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Support Professional (DSP) position at A Helping Home?
Description
A Helping Home, LLC is seeking compassionate, reliable, and professional Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in licensed residential homes.
Direct Support Professionals play a critical role in assisting Individuals to live safe, meaningful, and fulfilling lives in their homes and communities. DSPs provide hands‑on support while promoting independence, dignity, choice, and community inclusion in alignment with Everyday Lives principles. This role is ideal for individuals who are dependable, patient, and committed to delivering high‑quality, person‑centered support.
Essential Responsibilities
Direct Care & Person‑Centered Support:
- Provide daily support to Individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal care, hygiene, meal preparation, and household tasks
- Support Individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Support Plan (ISP)
- Promote independence, choice, and self‑advocacy in all areas of support
- Assist Individuals with communication, socialization, and emotional regulation
- Encourage participation in community activities, employment, recreation, and social events
Health, Safety & Medical Support:
- Support medication administration in accordance with training and agency policy
- Monitor Individuals for changes in health or behavior and report concerns promptly
- Assist with medical appointments and follow‑through on health‑related needs
- Ensure a safe, clean, and healthy home environment
- Follow all health, safety, and emergency procedures
Documentation & Compliance:
- Accurately document daily services, progress notes, and required records
- Ensure documentation reflects person‑centered, measurable outcomes
- Report incidents, injuries, or concerns immediately and in accordance with policy
- Maintain confidentiality of Individual records and protected health information (PHI)
Teamwork & Communication:
- Work collaboratively with House Supervisors, Leads, and other DSPs
- Communicate effectively with supervisors regarding Individual needs and concerns
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and required in‑services
- Follow all agency policies, procedures, and professional standards
Household & Community Responsibilities:
- Assist with maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming home
- Support meal planning, grocery shopping, and basic budgeting as assigned
- Transport Individuals safely to appointments, activities, and community outings
Required and Preferred Qualifications , Working Environment and Expectations
Required Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or GED required
- Ability to work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Strong communication, reliability, and teamwork skills
- Willingness to complete required training and certifications
- Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License
- Ability to pass all required background checks and clearances
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior experience as a Direct Support Professional, Caregiver, or in human services
- Experience working in a residential or community‑based setting
- Medication Administration certification (or willingness to obtain)
- Knowledge of person‑centered practices and ISP implementation
Work Environment & Expectations:
- In‑person role within residential homes
- May include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts
- Physical ability to assist Individuals as required by the position
- Overtime and on‑call shifts may be required based on staffing needs
Training & Development:
- Paid orientation and on‑the‑job training provided
- Ongoing training opportunities to support professional growth
- Supportive supervision and coaching
Equal Opportunity Employer:
A Helping Home, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
About A Helping Home
A Helping Home provides person centered residential services to individuals with intellectual disabilities. We strive to provide each person with the opportunity to be an integral part of the community in which they live. We embody the ‘Everyday Lives’ philosophy provided by ODP, by valuing what is important to the people with disabilities and their families who are striving for an everyday life.