Who We Are

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day programs and residential services , community connections, and employment services—are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Who We Need 

Abilities First has respite opportunities available in Dutchess County. Respite Providers are responsible for providing a variety of in-home activities for our individuals and families as a needed break which eases the stress at home, and which improves family harmony. These activities may include recreational activities, assistance after school/day program, at night or on weekends and/or providing self-care which can include feeding, bathing, dressing, etc. In addition, the Respite Provider will maintain timely and appropriate documentation as required by the oversight agency and/or service program. Candidates must support our goal of person-centered excellence and have a high regard for respect and confidentiality. 

  Responsibilities:  

• Provide participants with continuous supervision, ensuring the safety and well-being of the individual. 
• Provide assistance to the individual as needed in areas that naturally occur during the course of an assigned shift which may include but are not limited to: self-care including feeding and dressing, personal care including bathing and personal hygiene, and physical assistance such as transferring.
• Maintain timely, appropriate documentation as required by service program, grant provisions, and regulatory requirements.
• May include driving responsibilities when requested based on individualized services. 
• Ensures all required training and certifications required are current, and seeks further support and training where needed.
• Adhere to agency Code of Legal and Ethical Behavior, which require all employees, consultants, board members, volunteers, and affiliates to perform their responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty, integrity, fairness, good faith and respect for others and the law.
• Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and the safety of others.
• Performs other appropriate job-related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant.
• Will incorporate concepts of person-centered excellence by respecting people’s concerns and responding accordingly and will use “teachable moments” to assist people in understanding and exercising their rights.

Full-time/Part-time Non-Exempt 

Pay Range $21.00 per hour with Grant 

Pay range $16.00 Per hour after Grant

 Pay rate is through a grant funded program which would be at a rate of $21 per hour. This rate is temporary and based on the continuation of the grant. Once the grant has ended the rate of pay will return to $16.00 an hour.  

Perks & Benefits:

• Time to Recharge - Vacation, personal, sick, and holiday time OR
• Time to Recharge – Personal and sick time with additional paid time off in accordance with school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered, and free Employee Assistance Program available 24/7
• Plan for The Future – Retirement savings plan options, employer-paid life insurance, and access to Free Will
• Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and career development training opportunities
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day
• Make a Difference and Be Recognized! – We celebrate our team through staff appreciation events, employee awards, team celebrations, and ongoing recognition of exceptional performance and service.
• And More!

*Eligibility requirements may apply

• High School or Equivalency Diploma required.
• Experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities preferred.
• A valid NYS driver’s license which meets the criteria of the agency insurance provider preferred

Physical demands:

Described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job and are not meant to be all inclusive. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job. Unless reasonable accommodations can be made, in order to perform the essential functions of this job, an individual shall be required to:

1. Have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques).
2. Lift individuals by using appropriate techniques, including but not limited to usage of tools to assist, such as the Hoyer Lift.
3. Assist individuals in ambulation by providing physical assistance, including use of a gait belt or other equipment where necessary.
4. Have the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
5. Have the ability to push, pull, and maneuver adults in wheelchairs.
6. Possess verbal and written communication skills, in English, to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.

NOTE: The salary range represents the expected range of compensation for this position exclusive of fringe benefits or other job specific stipends where applicable. The actual starting salary for the successful candidate will be based on qualifications, experience, skills, education, internal equity, and other job-related factors. Not all candidates will qualify for the maximum range.