Youth and Adult Program Direct Care Staff

Job Description Summary:

The primary duty of the Youth and Adult Direct Care Staff is to provide blind, low vision, hearing loss and multi-handicapped adults with services to develop social skills in a classroom-centered environment structured around adult day program activities consisting of, assisting with daily living skills, exercise and fitness, social activities, peer support companionship and recreational activities.

The Youth and Adult Direct Care Staff must set a good example and constantly demonstrate the Light (LIGHT) Principles of Leadership, Integrity, Growth, Humility and Trust. It is important for individuals to be committed to a continuous learning environment and a champion for change, with a teamwork mentality.

Mission:

To enable and empower people who are blind or low vision to realize their full potential.

Roles and Responsibilities:

- Follow all safety protocols for handling and taking care of clients.

- Provides direct care to clients in the building including but not limited to escorting clients, assisting with activities of daily living, preparing and serving meals and snacks, leading and assisting with classes and activities, and cleaning.

- Responsible for the safety and supervision of clients at all times.

- Develops and maintains a good rapport with clients and their family members.

- Provides physical assistance to clients as needed.

- Maintains clients progress notes and daily attendance records.

- Maintains and complies with the program and state license requirements and expectations.

- Maintains a professional and professional demeanor with clients and guests at all times.

- Keep Youth and Adult Program Manager informed of all client observations that need addressing.

- Responsible daily for disinfecting of tables, chairs, supplies, door handles, and van seats after every use.

- Completes quarterly training (Abuse and Neglect, CPR/First Aide, Fire Safety, Fall Prevention)

- Attend and participate in training, workshops and in-services provided by Lighthouse of Houston.

- Transports clients to and from home to The Adult Day center and field trips.

- Ensures vehicles are in good working conditions and performs pre-trip and post-trip maintenance inspection prior to and after operating the vehicle and reports any issues to the Youth and Adult Program Manager.

- Responsible for maintenance of company vehicles including but not limited to gas, car washes and oil changes.

- Maintains meal records and driver logs including pick-up and drop-off times of clients.

- Cross-training to work with youth programs may be utilized when needed

- Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Licensure and Experience:

- High School Diploma or Equivalent

- Minimum of 1 year of Direct Care of Adults and/or Youth experience preferred.

- CNA or equivalent health care certification preferred.

- Current driving license with good driving record and clear criminal background check.

- TB test required annually

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

- Must be able to work with clients with care and respect and ensure they are receiving the services expected by the client, organization and federal and state licensing guidelines.

- Must have empathy and patience and a passing for caring and assisting others.

- Good organizational skills and attention to detail.

- Must be caring and passionate about working and taking care of others.

- Must be able to follow instructions and work closely with volunteers and students.

- Must have some computer skills and be able to use Microsoft Office Programs.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, without causing undue hardship to the organization.

- This position requires active movement and some sitting based on the activity needs. This position may also require some light, medium and heavy lifting.

- Accommodation for lifting assistance can be provided if needed.

The Lighthouse of Houston for the Blind is an equal opportunity employer and value a diverse workforce and equal opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other basis protected by the federal, state or local laws.