Direct Support Professional

Program Description

The MO-TAP apprenticeship program provided through CHS is a year-long program which offers on-the-job training, an educational and compliance training program, mentorship, community involvement, pay incentive, and nationally recognized certification. Below is the description of the job.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) in Community Living is vital in advancing the organization’s mission by delivering compassionate, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting. This position empowers individuals to achieve their highest level of independence by promoting choice, dignity, and inclusion in all aspects of daily life. The DSP fosters skill development, community integration, and meaningful engagement by providing high-quality, individualized support services while ensuring a safe, supportive, and respectful home environment. In some homes, the DSP may be required to provide additional behavioral or medical support, assisting individuals with specific needs related to health care, mobility, or behavioral challenges. This role is foundational in helping individuals live fulfilling, self-directed lives as active and valued members of their communities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Direct Support Professional, you will:

• Integrate Individuals by promoting meaningful community integration for individuals residing in residential ISL settings by encouraging and facilitating active participation in community life. Support individuals in building and maintaining relationships, accessing local resources, and engaging in community-based programs, recreational activities, and events that reflect their personal interests and preferences as outlined in their Individual Support Plan (ISP). Assist in developing essential life skills through goal-oriented activities that promote independence, social interaction, and personal growth. Foster inclusion by creating opportunities for individuals to make choices, explore new environments, and contribute to their communities in a purposeful and fulfilling way. Emphasize person-centered support that balances safety with empowerment, ensuring each individual is fully supported in a self-directed and connected life within their residential setting.
• Empower Individuals by providing personalized physical and emotional support to individuals in a residential ISL setting, fostering a safe, clean, and person-centered home environment. Ensure daily living needs are met by performing essential housekeeping tasks such as preparing nutritious meals, doing laundry, making beds, and maintaining cleanliness and care of household equipment. Assist individuals with mobility and transfer needs, utilizing appropriate assistive technology and safety protocols to promote comfort, independence, and dignity. Encourage and support individuals in using adaptive devices and participation in daily routines, reinforcing skills that enhance autonomy and quality of life within their home.
• Aid Individuals by providing compassionate physical and emotional support and fostering a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment. Perform routine housekeeping responsibilities such as meal preparation, laundry, bed-making, and maintaining household equipment to promote overall well-being and dignity. Assist individuals with mobility and transfer needs, utilizing proper lifting techniques and assistive technology to ensure safety and independence. Support the effective use of adaptive devices and equipment, encouraging individuals to engage in daily activities with confidence and autonomy.
• Support the Health of Individuals by assisting them with administering prescribed medications following physician orders, completing thorough and timely documentation such as medication administration records, daily logs, and incident reports. The role involves safely administering tube feedings and providing personal care, including bathing, grooming, toileting, dressing, and mobility assistance to support the individual’s dignity and well-being. Staff are responsible for preparing and serving meals according to dietary needs. Additionally, the position requires providing support at medical appointments, including scheduling, transportation, attending
  visits, and assisting with communication and follow-up care as needed.
• Ensure regulatory compliance by accurately completing all required documentation—including medical, behavioral, and daily logs—within established timeframes and following agency and state guidelines. Maintain high professionalism and accountability through consistent attendance, active participation in mandatory training and team meetings, and adherence to agency policies and procedures. Demonstrate reliability and commitment to quality care by following all safety protocols and emergency procedures to ensure the health and well-being of individuals supported. Serve as a role model in upholding ethical standards and promoting a safe, respectful, and person-centered environment.
• Strengthen positive work culture by participating in effective, courteous, and professional communication; showing kindness and patience to Individuals and co-workers; demonstrating respect and responsibility in daily work; and practicing advocacy and encouragement in all aspects of employment.