Community Support Direct Support Professional - Life Unlimited

Job Description
Job Title: Community Support Direct Support Professional
Department: Community Support Options
Reports To: Community Support Coordinator
FLSA: Non-Exempt

SUMMARY
A Direct Support Professional in the Community Support Program (CSO) provides support in all areas that are specified in each individual’s Individual Support Plan (ISP). A CSO Direct Support Professional must be able to communicate effectively with the individual served, their families or advocates, and other team members. The CSO Direct Support Professional needs to be flexible in scheduling to meet the support needs of the individuals, including working evening and weekend hours.

BASIC FUNCTIONS AND GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Provides high quality services that are person-centered and meet best practice standards.
• Understands and provides services in accordance with each Individual Support Plan (ISP) and behavioral support plans (BSP) as needed. Provides appropriate levels of supervision and support as indicated in the plan(s).
• Offers activities that are individualized and person-centered in accordance with the ISP.
• Provides supports on an individualized basis in making informed choices in accordance with the ISP.
• Ensures that all supports are provided according to best practice and individual choice.
• Ensures documentation is compliant with all applicable laws, rules and regulations.
• Completes all required documentation electronically or on paper according to program requirements.
• Completes Event Reports according to agency policy and state rules and regulations.
• Keeps all Individual’s records confidential and secured.
• Ensures all financial policies and procedures for use individual funds are followed and all documentation is completed as funds are used, if financial support is dictated in the ISP.
• Complies with all health and safety guidelines, rules, policies and procedures.
• Ensures the health and safety of all individuals through teaching and providing support as dictated by the ISP.
• If dictated in the ISP, monitors medications set-up and/or self-administration by Individuals according to guidelines taught in Level 1 Medication Administration classes.
• Ensure personal care tasks are carried out if detailed in the ISP.
• Attends medical appointments and provides appropriate follow-up as indicated in the ISP.
• Identifies and assists Individuals with problem –solving situations that might threaten the Individual’s health and safety, such as no hot water, toilet not flushing, no heat, etc.
• The ability to effectively and efficiently use computers or mobile devices to input, access, modify, or output information. This includes the ability to quickly access, store and retrieve data.
• All Other Duties as Assigned

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Protects the rights of all individuals:
• Is knowledgeable about the rights of people with intellectual/developmental disabilities.
• Respects and advocates for the capabilities, dignity and rights of each individual and files report of any human rights violation immediately.
• Understands that all forms of abuse, neglect, and exploitation are unacceptable. Reports any observation or suspicion of abuse or neglect to a member of administration.
• Complies with all company policies and procedures, and maintains certifications and credentials including but not limited to the following:
• Keeps current certification in all areas required by agency policy and Medicaid Waiver, including CPR, FA, Crisis Intervention, and Level 1 Medication Administration.
• Finds coverage of shift(s) if unable to work and immediately reports change to the team supervisor, the person on call, and others as applicable.
• Gives and accepts feedback appropriately:
• Keeps current certification in all areas required by agency policy and Medicaid Waiver.
• Maintains current CPR, FA, Crisis Intervention, Level 1 Medication Administration certifications according to training authority schedule.
• Ensures all annual trainings are updated and current.
• Finds coverage of shift(s) if unable to work and immediately reports change to the CSO Coordinator, the Program Director, and others as applicable.
• Performs other duties and attends team/program/agency meetings as requested.
• Because of the uniqueness of the services provided in the Community Support Program, CSO DSP will provide your cell phone number for communication with Individuals served, family members/advocates/guardians, Support Coordinators, CSO Team members, and administration staff of LU.
• A CSO DSP will work with the CSO Coordinator and Program Director on coordinating any necessary meetings throughout the plan year. The CSO DSP will help facilitate communication between the Support Coordinator, CSO management staff and any family members or guardians involved in the individuals’ care as well.
• The CSO DSP is responsible for setting up meetings with Support Coordinators and individuals as requested by the Support Coordinator for service monitoring by the Support Coordinator. Once meeting is set, date, time, and place should be reported to the appropriate CSO Coordinator.

Physical Expectations
• This position requires extended periods of walking and standing with some periods of sitting which is dependent upon the needs and activities of the individuals supported. It may require light to heavy lifting, up to 50 pounds independently, and occasional stooping, kneeling, bending, and/or climbing stairs depending on the needs of the individual supported.
• The position will require occasional physical intervention if confronted by a person displaying combative or potentially dangerous behavior.
• Driving an agency or personal vehicle is a part of community integration for the individuals we support.

Working Conditions
Office/home environment with noises from appliances, telephones, and occasional small machinery (lawn mower, etc.). May be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and/or infectious diseases. Occasionally, prolonged hours or unusual chores to meet the unexpected needs of the individuals (i.e. medical and/or behavioral).

QUALIFICATIONS
• Be at least 18 years of age and provide proof of high school diploma or G.E.D.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in English – both in writing and orally.
• Must not have been convicted of any disqualifying felony and must not have been substantiated for abuse or neglect in the state of Missouri, as recorded by the Department of Mental Health’s Employee Disqualification List.
• Must have reliable personal vehicle for transporting clients.
• Must demonstrate safe practices in all areas and exemplify positive professional standards.
• Must obtain a Class E driver’s license during new hire orientation– must carry minimum coverage applicable by law for auto insurance
• Must Receive Seasonal Flu Vaccination

Equal Opportunity Employer