Choices for People provides year-round support and instructional programs designed to aid individuals with disabilities in developing essential life skills. These skills promote inclusion, independence, self-sufficiency, and productivity; and aim to maximize the individual’s quality of life in the least restrictive environment possible.

Choices for People assists in individual goal-oriented program planning, and acts as an advocate in the community through the removal of attitudinal, architectural, environmental, financial, employment-related, communicational, transportation, and other barriers.

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for supporting individuals in achieving employment and community inclusion goals as outlined in their Person Centered Support Plan (PCSP). This role delivers individualized services, coaching, and advocacy to promote meaningful work experiences, personal growth, and increased independence. The DSP assists individuals in identifying, securing, and maintaining employment opportunities aligned with their strengths, preferences, and interests.  

Duties and Responsibilities (not all inclusive): 

• Establish and maintain a safe, respectful, and supportive environment that encourages individual choice, self-expression, and personal growth. 
• Provide person-centered support to individuals in accordance with their Person Centered Support Plan (PCSP) to promote employment, independence, and community inclusion. 
• Deliver individualized services, training, and supports in alignment with professional guidance, individual plans, and organizational policies. 
• Support individuals with maintaining their personal spaces and participating in routine household or work-site tasks as appropriate. 
• Assist individuals in identifying vocational interests, strengths, and goals through discovery activities and community-based experiences. 
• Support individuals in pursuing, obtaining, and maintaining employment, including assistance with resumes, applications, interviews, and workplace integration. 
• Provide individualized job coaching and on-the-job supports to promote skill development, productivity, and long-term employment success. 
• Coordinate and oversee services authorized by Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), the Department of Mental Health (DMH), or other referral sources. 
• Foster positive relationships with employers, coworkers, families, and community partners to support inclusive employment and community participation. 
• Encourage and support development of daily living, communication, social, and self-advocacy skills related to employment and community life. 
• Assist individuals with transportation, errands, and participation in community-based activities, including loading, securing, and unloading mobility devices as required by their service plan.  
• Monitor individuals’ needs, behaviors, and support requirements and report concerns in accordance with organizational procedures.    
• Communicate effectively with individuals, families, employers, referral sources, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure coordinated service delivery. 
• Accurately complete required documentation and records in a timely manner in accordance with program, funding, and regulatory requirements. 
• Uphold organizational policies and ensure that all operational activities align with applicable internal procedures, state and federal regulations, and compliance standards. 
• Maintain knowledge of relevant industry trends, best practices, and regulations related to the field. 
• Operate facility vehicles when required, ensuring adherence to all safety policies, licensing requirements, and governmental regulations. 
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all individual, staff, and organizational information and comply with HIPAA and all applicable privacy and confidentiality laws. This obligation applies both during employment and after separation from the organization. 

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

•  At minimum, 18 years of age 
• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred 
• Experience providing person-centered support to individuals with disabilities preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with individuals served, families, employers, community partners, and interdisciplinary team members. 
• Ability to understand, follow, and implement Person Centered Support Plans (PCSPs), professional instructions, and service guidelines. 
• Ability to document services accurately, objectively, and in a timely manner using electronic documentation systems and organizational forms. 
• Working knowledge of person-centered practices, community-based services, and principles of inclusion and self-determination. 
• Ability to provide hands-on assistance with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, mobility, and personal care, as required by PCSPs. 
• Ability to support individuals with skill development related to employment, community participation, communication, and independent living. 
• Demonstrated ability to build respectful, supportive relationships and engage effectively with individuals with diverse abilities and needs. 
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and adapt to changing schedules, environments, and individual needs. 
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail to support safety, quality service delivery, and accurate documentation. 
• Commitment to upholding the organization’s mission, values, policies, and person-centered service philosophy. 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and applicable privacy regulations. 
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (e.g., Word, Outlook) and other required documentation or data-entry software. 
• Ability to represent the organization professionally in community, employment, and public settings. 
• Ability to obtain a Missouri Class “E” Driver License required 

Physical Demands: 

• Ability to provide physical assistance to individuals, including support with personal hygiene, transfers, mobility, and other activities of daily living. 
• Ability to frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, and move throughout the workday in a variety of environments. 
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 30 pounds routinely and more than 30 pounds with assistance, as required by individual support needs. 
• Ability to participate in community-based activities that may occur indoors, outdoors, or at employment sites. 
• Ability to work in varied settings, including private homes, workplaces, and community locations, which may involve uneven surfaces, varying noise levels, and changing weather conditions. 

Comments:

Failure to provide official transcript(s) or other required verification may result in the withdrawal of the job offer.

All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check and a drug screen.

EEO STATEMENT:

It is the policy and intent of Choices for People Center, Inc. to comply with all federal and state laws concerning non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or genetic information (including family medical history), veteran status, or age (40 or older), except where age is a bona fide occupational requirement or qualification; and to take affirmative action towards the goals and intentions of the applicable laws.

Furthermore, it is our policy and intent to practice non-discrimination in regard to the above factors on personnel matters concerning employment, promotion, demotion, transfer, recruitment advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training including apprenticeship.