Pathways Center's intellectual and developmental disabilities programs and services are currently based out of four counties in the west, central Georgia area. They are: Carroll, Coweta, Meriwether, and Troup counties. The individual in this role will ensure a safe environment where individuals are treated with dignity and respect. The main focus of this role consists of supporting and facilitating opportunities for clients to participate in recreation, socialization, and vocational activities that are determined based on their personal interests and skill sets, which is identified through the person-centered planning process.

The Direct Support Professional provides individuals diagnosed with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities training and guidance in everyday skills needed to help achieve their highest level of functioning and to participate as fully as possible in the surrounding community. The Direct Support Professional provides personal care, social support, and physical assistance to individuals with disabilities in a wide range of activities of daily living. This role helps individuals learn living skills such as cooking and shopping, and makes it possible to participate in employment and social activities in the community. Responsibilities for the Direct Support Professional include but are not limited to the following:

• Provides direct personal care and supervision to individuals diagnosed with a developmental and/or intellectual disability in a residential setting, facility based setting. and/or community environment as needed
• Assists with the development of an individual service/treatment plan for each assigned client
• Teaches basic life skills in residential, day, and/or community based settings
• Observes and monitors client's behavior and documents observations and, if applicable, any incidents
• Provides training of basic personal and social skills, simple academics, or work skills to clients
• Arranges for medical care and provides support to ensure that any ongoing medical treatment is obtained
• Monitors client food intake, functional status, psychosocial status, wellness activities, etc.
• Supports individuals in building relationships and social networks
• Provides transportation for client(s) as needed for individual and/or group community outings
• Acts immediately on any crisis, following protocol and basic CPR/first aid training
• Counsels and advises clients on any behavioral challenges, daily decision-making, and the resolution of minor problems
• Participates in Individual Service Plan (ISP) meetings/Case Reviews consulting with the team to evaluate the client’s needs and plan for continuing services
• Performs housekeeping duties such as cleaning, washing clothes and dishes, and running errands
• Involves clients in the planning, shopping for, and preparation of nutritious meals taking into consideration any dietary needs/requirements
• Documents client progress and services provided on a daily basis, reporting any changes in client condition to all members of the client’s direct care treatment team