Personal Support Specialist, (1163)

About the Organization

At Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington, your work in areas such as developmental disabilities can make a profound difference in the lives of many. Through more than 50 programs across the district and five surrounding counties, Catholic Charities opens doors to help and hope. The organization offers professional development, a comprehensive benefits package, and a "promote from within" culture.

About the Role

The Personal Support Specialist ensures that adults with disabilities are provided with opportunities to be meaningfully engaged and centered in their community.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals in discovering and pursuing new interests and having control over their daily lives.
• Plan and carry out daily/weekly schedules (e.g., work schedules, activities, medical/dental appointments, vacations) and inform the team of schedule changes.
• Assist individuals with planning and preparing for team meetings and sharing preferences and interests.
• Ensure individuals are on time for scheduled activities (e.g., classes, workshops, appointments).
• Teach skills for increased independence (e.g., self-help, personal hygiene, social skills).
• Encourage and support individuals' pursuit of self-advocacy (e.g., learning skills, identifying self-advocacy activities).
• Ensure individuals are properly dressed and groomed, maximizing individual choice.
• Facilitate the development of meaningful relationships and assist individuals in broadening their awareness and use of community resources (e.g., transportation, businesses, libraries, social services).
• Develop and implement, in coordination with the team, the Individual’s Plan to achieve the vision and personal outcomes identified by the individual.
• Foster individuals' rights, self-determination, and independence, and participate in community education to promote the rights of persons with disabilities.
• Assist individuals in living a healthy lifestyle, including following diet and doctor’s orders, assessing and communicating changes in health status, and attending medical appointments as necessary.
• Follow doctor’s orders under the direction of a licensed health care professional (e.g., PT exercises, health care treatments).
• Communicate healthcare needs of individuals to healthcare providers (e.g., medical issues, how to work best with or communicate with the individual).
• Encourage exercise as outlined in the Individual Plan or doctor’s orders.
• Transport individuals from their homes to various activities within the community and back safely.
• Pass MTTP tests and recertify as a Certified Medication Technician (CMT) with the Maryland Board of Nursing.
• Perform all other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (verification of foreign equivalency required).
• One (1) year of experience supporting persons with disabilities and/or behaviorally challenged individuals.
• Experience in behavior management, crisis intervention, and hands-off problem-solving is a plus.
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification is a plus.

Skills

• Proficient with Microsoft Office and Outlook 365.
• Must possess a full, valid local driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
• Must be able to use a personal vehicle to transport clients and maintain insurance requirements.
• Must be able to follow instructions delegated by a Registered Nurse.

Schedule

• Monday-Friday: 6:00 am to 9:00 am, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
• Saturday: 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Pay

$18 - $18/hour

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package.

Employment type: Part Time
Work arrangement: On Site
Location: Rockville, Maryland