Community Support Specialist-Day Services (Howard County ) 1:1

$45,760 - $45,760/Yr

Richcroft

Full-time

Social Assistance

About the position

The Community Support Specialist within the Day Services Department is a vital role focused on providing Community Development Services (CDS) and Day Habilitation Services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This position operates under the supervision of the Director of Day Services and is responsible for implementing and supervising daily community engagement activities tailored to the interests and needs of the individuals supported. The role emphasizes community integration and engagement through various programs, including social activities, fitness, arts, sports, festivals, and volunteer opportunities. These experiences are designed to foster positive community connections, enhance socialization, promote lifelong learning, and encourage healthy recreation and personal development. As a community-based position, the Community Support Specialist will travel to the homes of the individuals they support, assist them in participating in community programs, and ensure their safe return home at the end of the day. The specialist will work closely with 2-5 individuals daily, ensuring they are engaged and successful in their community activities. This role requires meticulous record-keeping of activities, goals, and reports, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and maintaining open communication with supervisors regarding program enhancements and operational concerns. In addition to direct support responsibilities, the Community Support Specialist will model appropriate behavior, assist in conflict resolution, and help individuals focus on their activities. The position also involves attending training sessions and staff meetings to enhance professional development skills. Strong communication skills, both oral and written, are essential, as is the ability to utilize technology for job-related tasks. Familiarity with specific software, such as iCare Manager and the MS Office Suite, is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist and supervise 2-5 individuals daily within community-based activities to ensure successful integration and engagement.
• Ensure timely and accurate record-keeping of activities, notes, goals, and reports as required.
• Maintain compliance with COMAR, Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), and Richcroft regulations.
• Communicate regularly with the Supervisor regarding program enhancement opportunities and operational concerns.
• Model appropriate behavior and monitor individuals' behavior, including de-escalating anger and frustration and assisting in conflict resolution.
• Maintain regular communication with the department through written progress notes and meetings.
• Follow instructions and abide by Agency policies and procedures.
• Assume other duties, responsibilities, and special projects as needed.
• Attend and participate in in-service training, staff meetings, and other professional development activities.

Requirements

• Possession of a High School Diploma or GED.
• Some college coursework in Therapeutic Recreation, Special Education, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working with adults with intellectual disabilities preferred.
• Background in Recreation and Leisure skill development preferred.
• Must be at least 20 years of age or older.
• Possess a full valid driver's license (not a Provisional DL).
• Have at least 2 years of driving experience with a clean driving record (no more than 3 points).
• Must have access to a reliable vehicle for daily use with current automobile insurance.
• Must have or be able to obtain CPR and First Aid certification.
• Must successfully complete MANDT training.
• Must be able to obtain CMT certification.
• Must be fully vaccinated or subject to weekly testing.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with iCare Manager (iCM) is a plus.
• In-depth working knowledge of MS Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, etc.).