Community Support - Lives Unlimited

Waypoint has expanded to the Western Region of Maine, offering comprehensive services including a special purpose private school for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, case management and outpatient therapy services for children and adults, and residential and in-home supports for adults with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities.

About the role

The Direct Support Professional-Community Supports and Membership supports members within Waypoint to connect with their community by helping them explore, join, or become involved in community activities, volunteer opportunities, or learning experiences while building new relationships. This role focuses on improving skills, promoting self-determination, encouraging personally satisfying lifestyles, and fostering growth. The DSP models healthy relationships, engages in effective communication, and supports independence while maintaining a safe and supportive environment. The role requires treating members with dignity and respect, supporting their interests and needs, and promoting respectful interactions. The DSP works as part of a team, represents Waypoint professionally, and upholds values of ethics, responsibility, and confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Cultivate a safe and supportive relationship with members and thoroughly understand service plans and support needs.
• Provide individualized support and skill-building opportunities to promote independence, community engagement, and relationship-building.
• Assist participants in developing and following a meaningful schedule of activities that encourage growth and inclusion.
• Implement Service Implementation Plans and support/care plans as described in Person-Centered Service Plans.
• Support participation in community activities, services, and events, including providing or accessing transportation.
• Respect each individual's right to privacy and confidentiality while encouraging self-determination and self-advocacy.
• Provide personal care assistance as needed.
• Follow recommendations from professional evaluations.
• Complete all required trainings and maintain certifications.
• Attend and participate in all staff meetings and supervisions.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services, including electronic health records, progress notes, treatment plans, positive support plans, and incident reports.
• Administer medications in compliance with CRMA certification requirements and Waypoint procedures.
• Promote a collaborative, professional, and respectful work environment.
• Operate as part of a team, accepting direction, constructive feedback, and information.
• Develop and maintain cooperative and professional relationships with participants, families, coworkers, supervisors, and community partners.
• Communicate effectively to resolve concerns constructively.
• Manage agency funds by accurately recording program expenditures.
• Comply with laws for Mandated Reporters and complete Reportable Event Reports as required.
• Adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including Rights of Recipients, Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Licensing, and HCBS regulatory requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA, agency privacy policies, and applicable laws.
• Actively promote safety and safe practices, ensuring a clean and orderly program site while implementing cleaning routines and checklists.
• Follow all agency safety policies and procedures, including Transportation Policies.
• Notify supervisor of safety and/or maintenance needs by following internal procedures for reporting and requesting repairs.
• Exercise sound judgment to ensure the safety and welfare of members and notify the supervisor of any situation that could negatively impact program operations or member safety.
• Follow work schedule, demonstrate consistent attendance and punctuality, adhere to core hours, and accurately record hours worked.
• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to provide emergency coverage in residential or community programs as needed.
• Maintain compliance with the State of Maine immunization requirements for Healthcare Workers (10-144 CMR Ch. 264).
• Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership in accordance with agency policy.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Must obtain Direct Support Professional Certification within six (6) months of hire and Safety Care certification.
• CRMA certification as needed.
• Valid driver's license, acceptable driving record, and reliable transportation with current inspection, registration, and insurance per Maine state requirements.

Skills

• Prior experience not required, but must have the desire to work with individuals with intellectual disabilities, including a willingness to learn and support individuals living with complex disabilities.
• Ability to promote individual choice, self-advocacy, and self-determination.
• Skilled at seeking out community resources and connections for people with disabilities.
• A willingness to implement positive behavior supports and structured activities.
• Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing English.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with members, families, coworkers, and other professionals.
• Ability to learn beginner-level Information Technology skills.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Employer-Paid Short Term Disability
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance and AD&D
• Critical Illness and Accident Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts

Pay

Starting pay: $17.00 per hour