Community Trainer (Direct Support Professional)

Description

Join Our Team: Community Trainer (CT)

Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of individuals with special needs? Join our team at EXCEED, where we are dedicated to empowering individuals with special abilities to reach their full potential. 

Position Overview

We are seeking a passionate Community Trainer to join our dedicated team. As a CT, your primary responsibility is to provide support, guidance, and training to individuals with special needs. Your role will involve fostering independence, promoting self-advocacy, and enhancing overall quality of life for the individuals you serve. You will use a tailored approach to meet individuals' unique needs and goals through Person-Centered Planning.

Requirements

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement program curriculum, schedules, and activities as required by program design, and based on the needs and interests of individuals' needs.
• Collaborate with the Program Manager and support team to create a diverse range of activities for participants, on a bi-weekly schedule that supports their individual goals.
• Identify strengths, desires, talents, skills, and challenges of their assigned participants. Provide this information to Service Team Coordinators and the support team.
• Teach and assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADL), such as communication skills, vocational skills, and other skills determined by the support team.
• Recognize and address emotional and behavioral challenges faced by individuals with special needs. Offer guidance, coping strategies, and emotional support as directed by the support team.
• Facilitate community involvement and integration by planning for, and accompanying individuals with special needs to social events, recreational activities, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities. Encourage the development of social skills and interpersonal relationships.
• Use personal vehicle to transport clients on outings while adhering to traffic laws and safety practices.
• Submit timely requests for reimbursements for mileage and approved job-related expenses.
• Collaborate with community organizations, employers, educational institutions, and relevant service providers to ensure individuals with special needs have access to resources and opportunities. 
• Build and maintain partnerships to enhance the support network for individuals with special needs.
• Maintain accurate records of individual progress, training activities, and any challenges encountered.
• Act as an advocate for individuals with special needs, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are respected.
• Ensure the safety of individuals during physical activities and outings by following proper safety measures, including using assistive devices, monitoring environmental hazards, and providing supervision.
• Attend and participate in assigned meetings and in-service trainings.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Hold a valid Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record.
• Maintain state minimum auto insurance coverage.
• Obtain CPR and First Aid Certification within 30 days of employment.
• Must pass Criminal Background Clearance.

Experience & Skills

• Prior experience working with individuals with special needs.
• Knowledge of special needs-related assistive devices and techniques.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt training methods to accommodate diverse learning styles.
• Empathy, patience, and a positive attitude.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move comfortably, including walking, standing, pushing, pulling, and occasional running or joining in physical activities with participants.
• Capability to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds, and perform tasks like stooping, reaching, crouching, crawling, bending, climbing, balancing, and carrying.
• Skill in assisting participants with mobility, transfers, or personal care as needed. This may involve helping individuals with limited mobility under supervision.
• Willingness and ability to actively engage in physical activities with program participants, promoting an inclusive environment.

Note: The physical demands may vary based on individuals' needs. Applicants are encouraged to consult program personnel for details.

Schedule & Compensation

Full Time Non-Exempt

Monday- Friday 7:30-3:30 or 8:00-4:00 p.m.

*Shifts are subject to change.

Salary range: $18.74-$19.68

Reports to: Senior Program Manager/Program Manager

Employment Status: Non-exempt