Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Responsible for the safety and well-being of individuals supported; encouraging individuals to reach their fullest potential by assisting and participating with community activities that promote growth and independence.

Take a lead to support a life of possibilities for individuals served by supporting them in leading and living their best life. Work collaboratively with the team to provide person-centered, productive, respectful, safe, meaningful and enriching experiences during day services, in the community and at home. Services are based on each person’s interests, needs and abilities with an eye on building relationships and socially valued roles. Always supporting informed life decisions with regard to self-advocacy, health, safety, relationships and career choices. Serves as a role model to people supported, support staff and community members – always teaching by example. Maintaining a positive, productive team environment which includes relationships with people, families, management, other agency employees, community members and establishments.

Communication/Teamwork/Participation

1. Ensure that individuals supported are treated with respect and dignity.
2. Knows and demonstrates the mission of Looking Upwards.
3. Interacts in a polite, honest, positive and professional manner.
4. Works with all team members toward resolution.
5. Is solution oriented when problems arise that need to be solved with others who can assist.
6. Assists with the development of a warm and supportive environment which facilitates growth and learning.
7. Encourages and demonstrates respectful and harmonious relationships among housemates
8. Checks Looking Upwards email and CSC Portal for information from the Business Office, Looking Upwards Main Office, Director, Service Coordinator or Clinical Team

Individual Support Planning

1.     Knows the content of each Individual Support Plan (ISP) and partners with persons supported to follow through on goals.

2.     Supports people in activities of their own choosing at home and in the community; helps people discover new areas of interest.

3.     Assists individuals to develop a positive self-image; encourage independence with adult day living skills providing assistance whenever needed.

Documentation and Follow- Through

1. Reads the house communication log at the beginning of each shift
2. Writes a clear, brief summary of the shift prior to the end of each shift
3. Completes all required daily documentation as related to the ISP.
4. Is accountable for and properly documents the use of money.

Health/Safety/Wellbeing

1. Knows and follows procedures for specific health care plans and health issues.
2. Ensures medications are administered according to the Looking Upwards Medication Administration Policy.
3. Operates all vehicles defensively, utilizing seatbelts and obeying all traffic laws.
4. Reports any household, vehicle, maintenance or other safety issues immediately.
5. Knows the whereabouts of persons supported at all times.
6. Works with team members in keeping the home and vehicles clean at all times.
7. Follows program plans and implements behavior management programs for each person supported.
8. Informs the Director/Service Coordinator of any concerns regarding significant changes in an individual’s behavior.
9. Follows dietary/nutrition guidelines.
10. Utilizes the on-call system as specified by the program guidelines.
11. Adheres to all agency policies regarding exposure to blood borne pathogens, safety, disaster plans, etc.
12. Completes all behavior management training.
13. Completes annual fire safety training.
14. Completes all health and medical trainings.
15. Completes all Human Rights trainings.
16. Schedules and follows through on medical appointments as necessary.
17. Adheres to all agency policies and procedures.
18. Performs other duties as assigned.
19. Provides holiday coverage and participates in filling open shifts.

Essential Qualifications and Requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED
2. Employees that are responsible for the transportation of individuals supported must have a valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record. DSPs may be required to use their personal vehicle with proof of valid insurance, registration and inspection.
3. Ability to complete CPR, Safety Skills, Online Trainings and other required agency trainings
4. Employees that are responsible for the administration of medications to individuals supported must complete and carry out Medication Administration
5. Capable of effective oral and written communication
6. Capable of reading and comprehending policies and instruction, and use varying degrees of independent judgment and discretion
7. Ability to respond to emergency situations at all times