Direct Support Professional

Job Summary
L’Arche Syracuse is a community of adults with and without intellectual disabilities who share life together. Mutual relationships are at the center of all we do at L'Arche, and by living our lives in an inclusive way, we are able to be a sign of hope in our community.

We are seeking a compassionate and energetic Assistant known as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide exceptional care and support to individuals with diverse needs, including intellectual and developmental disabilities. In this vital role, you will assist residents with daily activities, promote independence, and ensure a safe, nurturing environment. Your dedication will empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives while fostering a positive community atmosphere. This paid position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day through hands-on caregiving and support.

Duties

• Nurture the philosophy of L’Arche in the residence; encourage a sense of hospitality and spirituality within the residence; encourage and facilitate exchange visits (through mailings) with other L’Arche communities.
• Assist Core Members with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility support using equipment like Hoyer lifts when necessary
• Monitor Core Members’ health by taking vital signs, observing condition, and reporting changes to healthcare teams
• Administer medications following care plans and HIPAA regulations to ensure safety and compliance
• Prepare nutritious meals tailored to individual dietary needs and assist with meal consumption as needed
• Maintain cleanliness of living spaces by performing routine cleaning tasks in accordance with health standards
• Support Core Members in participating in social activities, community outings, and recreational programs to promote engagement and well-being
• Follow detailed care plans designed by healthcare professionals to deliver personalized support for each individual’s needs
• Accompany the Core Members to various appointments, such as medical, dental, vocational, etc.
• Attend meetings that relate to the development of programs for the Core Members, i.e., individual program planning meetings, annual/semi-annual reviews, quarterly reviews, team meetings, L’Arche community meetings, etc.
• Accompany Core Members on vacations and other occasions of extended travel.
• Be responsible for the completion of all required documentation: fiscal, programmatic, medical, log, etc.
• Assist in the ongoing day-to-day operations of the household, e.g., purchase of supplies and groceries as needed; preparation of meals for either house or community occasions; provide routine maintenance and upkeep of the residence and residential vehicles; facilitate Core Members’ transportation needs, assist with personal care as required or needed, etc.

Skills

• Proven experience in group homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, or home health environments
• Knowledge of patient care techniques including CPR, first aid, and medication administration
• Strong observational skills for patient monitoring and patient safety surveillance
• Ability to perform heavy lifting safely and operate assistive devices such as Hoyer lifts or wheelchairs
• Familiarity with working with individuals with developmental disabilities, dementia (including Alzheimer’s and memory care), autism, or other special needs
• Excellent communication skills for collaborating with team members, residents, families, and healthcare providers
• Understanding of HIPAA regulations to ensure confidentiality and privacy of resident information

This role is ideal for caring individuals eager to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Join us in creating a supportive environment where every resident feels valued, respected, and cared for!

Pay: $20.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid orientation
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Retirement plan

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person