Job Description

Role Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP) Lead.

Reports to: House Leader or Day Service Coordinator (depending on assignment).

Location: L’Arche Heartland (Homes and Day Program).

Schedule: 3½-day workweek - either Sunday through Wednesday or Wednesday through Saturday evening ; includes evenings and holidays.

Position Summary:

The DSP Lead at L’Arche Heartland is an experienced and trusted Direct Support Professional who provides high-quality care and support to core members in both residential and day program settings. DSP Leads act as role models, mentors, and informal leaders among the DSP team. They serve as key supports to House Leaders and the Day Program Coordinator by providing leadership coverage, ensuring continuity of care, and promoting community values across all L’Arche settings.

This role follows a consistent 3½-day weekly schedule that offers extended time off while ensuring strong, continuous support in the community.

Key Responsibilities:

Direct Support Duties:

• Provide direct care and support to core members with intellectual disabilities, including assistance with daily living activities, personal care, medication administration, and community engagement.
• Encourage core members’ independence, inclusion, and dignity.
• Foster a warm, respectful, and life-giving community environment.

Leadership & Mentorship:

• Serve as a leader on shift, offering guidance and support to other DSPs.
• Support mentorship of new DSP staff and volunteers.
• Step in for House Leaders or Day Program Coordinators as needed to maintain daily operations and consistency of care.

Flexibility & Coverage:

• Work across multiple homes and the day program, adapting to various environments and team needs.
• Provide coverage during staff absences, transitions, or other staffing needs as assigned.
• Model flexibility and professionalism during moments of change or crisis.

Communication & Collaboration:

• Maintain clear, respectful communication with all team members, families, and external professionals.
• Accurately document services provided, health updates, behavioral observations, and incidents.
• Participate actively in team meetings, planning sessions, and community life.

Upholding L’Arche Values:

• Embody the mission and values of L’Arche in all interactions and decisions.
• Promote inclusion, belonging, mutual relationships, and the unique gifts of each person.

Qualifications:

• At least 1-2 years of experience as a DSP or equivalent in a similar setting.
• Demonstrated reliability, leadership qualities, and ability to work independently.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of L’Arche.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record (required).
• Ability to lift, transfer, and provide physical support to core members as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in both residential and day program settings.
• Previous leadership, mentoring, or supervisory experience in human services.

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