Direct Support Staff / Activities Specialist

About the role

We are seeking a Direct Support/Activities Specialist to join the Vera French Residential team. This role involves providing rehabilitation and recreation therapy services to adults with psychiatric disabilities in our residential treatment programs. Key responsibilities include teaching residents skills related to activities of daily living, community integration, functional and social skills, and coping skills to promote physical and emotional health.

Responsibilities

• Provide protective oversight and supervision to clients based on their needs outlined in their service plan.
• Implement appropriate interventions to teach residents skills and support their goals.
• Collaborate with the Social Worker to understand and follow the client’s activity goals and objectives.
• Relate to residents in constructive and supportive ways that encourage residents to acquire new skills promoting physical and emotional health.
• Facilitate group learning and support activities.

Requirements

• A High School Diploma (GED) is required.
• You must obtain Special Olympics Class A certification within 1 year of employment.
• You must obtain and maintain CPR certification within 1 year of employment.
• A valid driver's license is required.
• You must pass a pre-employment physical with a drug and alcohol screen.
• Previous experience working with the chronically mentally ill population is preferred.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma (GED) required.
• Must obtain Special Olympics Class A certification within 1 year of employment.
• Must obtain and maintain CPR certification within 1 year of employment.
• A valid driver's license is required.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment physical with a drug and alcohol screen.
• Previous experience working with the chronically mentally ill population preferred.

Skills

• Ability to work with individuals who have psychiatric disabilities.
• Knowledge of activities of daily living, community integration, functional and social skills.
• Experience in teaching and supporting residents' goals.
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to facilitate group activities and support.

Benefits

• Group Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• UMR - United Health Care health insurance.
• Delta Dental - dental and vision insurance.
• Employer-paid life insurance, AD&AD, LTD through Mutual of Omaha.
• Supplemental life insurance, short-term disability available.
• Tuition Reimbursement and Loan Repayment Program.
• Supplemental Critical Illness and Accident Coverage through Mutual of Omaha.
• Paid time off including 9 paid holidays, 9 paid sick days, 2 weeks of vacation.

Pay

The pay for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Schedule

The schedule for this position is flexible and tailored to meet the needs of both the employee and the organization.