Direct Support Professional - CORE Program

CORE Program – Day Direct Support Professional

FT Schedule: M-F 8a-4:30p

Lawrence, KS

Make Your Work Meaningful. Make Every Day Matter.

Are you looking for a job where your work truly makes a difference?
Join Cottonwood’s CORE Program as a Day Direct Support Professional and help create meaningful, active, and fulfilling days for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

CORE stands for Community, Outreach, Recreation, and Enrichment — and that’s exactly what this role is about. Our CORE Day Services program focuses on person‑driven experiences that promote independence, dignity, choice, and connection.

Want to see what a CORE Direct Support Professional does?
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R29BPlF4YTQ

What You’ll Do

As a CORE Day Direct Support Professional, you’ll support individuals in leading active, engaged lives through community‑based and center‑based experiences. Your days will be dynamic, social, and rewarding.

Your responsibilities may include:

• Planning and leading educational, recreational, and leisure activities
• Supporting skill‑building and personal growth
• Encouraging independence, choice, and self‑advocacy
• Promoting friendships and positive social connections
• Supporting community involvement through volunteer opportunities
• Providing safe transportation to activities and events
• Ensuring a safe, respectful, and empowering environment

Every day looks a little different — and that’s what makes this role exciting.

Why Work at Cottonwood?

Our employees love working here — and it shows in the care and support they provide. Cottonwood is known for a welcoming, employee‑ and family‑friendly culture that puts people first.

Benefits include:

• Competitive pay
• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Sick leave, personal time, and bereavement leave
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and workers’ compensation coverage
• Disability insurance for eligible employees
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Retirement plan with employer match (401k)
• Flexible spending accounts
• Parental leave
• Referral program
• Discounted Genesis Health Club memberships
• Discounts to local attractions

Working at Cottonwood also offers:

• Opportunities to collaborate with a supportive team
• Hands‑on experience aligned with fields like social work, healthcare, speech/language pathology, and related areas
• A deeper appreciation for diversity and community inclusion

But the best reason?
Every single day, you help change lives — including your own.

What We’re Looking For

• High school diploma or GED
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Valid Class C driver’s license with a driving record acceptable to Cottonwood’s insurance provider
• Ability to pass required background checks and drug screening
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift/carry at least 25 lbs., assist with transfers, and evacuate individuals during emergencies
• Willingness and ability to intervene during physical conflicts if needed
• Ability to assist with personal care
• Basic computer skills (email access and data entry)
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred, but not required

Ready to Get Started?

Apply today and become part of something meaningful.

Apply Now at: www.cwood.org/careers

EOE / Veterans / Disabilities

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $17.30 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Parental leave
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person