Direct Support Professional

Description:

Heartshare, a trusted nonprofit organization with over 150 years of service in empowering and supporting New Yorkers often overlooked or underestimated, is seeking dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join their growing team in Brooklyn, NY. The DSP will play an essential role in promoting person-centered care, ensuring each individual’s physical, emotional, and social well-being while supporting their goals and community inclusion.

This role is ideal for empathetic, responsible individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of people with developmental disabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement individualized service plans, ensuring each person’s goals and outcomes are actively pursued and documented.

• Facilitate skills development, social engagement, and daily living activities in both program and community settings.

• Encourage community participation and relationship-building to help individuals form friendships and social connections.

• Maintain open communication with family members, advocates, and service providers as needed.

• Assist individuals with transportation, including driving or using public transit.

• Participate in Program Planning Team (PPT) meetings, recreational activities, and community outings.

• Maintain thorough documentation of all services, incidents, and progress reports.

• Provide personal care support, including assistance with toileting, showering, meal preparation, and behavioral interventions when required.

• Ensure adherence to HIPAA and confidentiality standards at all times.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized environment, reporting hazards promptly.

• Stay certified in AMAP, CPR/First Aid, and SCIP, as required by the program.

• Meet or exceed the DSP Core Competency Standards within the first year of employment.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma, GED, or CNA certification preferred (not required).

• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred.

• Valid NYS driver’s license preferred but not required.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills.

• Compassionate, patient, and committed to promoting independence and inclusion.

Benefits:

Heartshare offers a comprehensive and rewarding benefits package designed to support the well-being and growth of its team members:

• Paid vacation, sick, personal days, and holidays.

• 403(B) retirement plan with employer contribution.

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.

• Flexible spending accounts (Dependent Care, Medical, Parking, Transit).

• Employee appreciation programs, events, and recognition initiatives.

• Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities.

• Discounts on gym memberships, Broadway tickets, movies, theme parks, and more.

• Verizon Wireless and BJ’s Membership discounts.

• A supportive, mission-driven work environment focused on community impact.

About Heartshare:

Founded over a century ago, Heartshare is a leading nonprofit organization committed to providing compassionate care and support to New Yorkers with developmental disabilities. The organization is recognized for its dedication to inclusion, empowerment, and advocacy for those often underestimated by society.

To learn more about Heartshare and its mission, visit their official website.