Position Summary:   

Looking for enthusiastic and attentive Recreation Support Professional Assistant to support and motivate individuals with special needs.  Respite is all about encouraging our groups to socialize, experience new and fun activities, while families receive the respite they need. We have part-time and per diem positions available.    

The Recreation Support Professional Assistant (RSPA) is responsible for implementing person-centered services for each individual.  This includes ensuring implementation of the individual’s services by offering choice. In addition, the RSPA is directly responsible for the individual’s overall physical and emotional well-being. Participating in planning trips and activities based on the group’s preferences.   

Primary Responsibilities and Essential Functions of Position: 

Participate in the planning and implementation of activities, including monies needed, calendar for the month and any other things needed for the activity.    Communicate and work with both your staff and the recreation team including the other
Recreation Support Professional Specialists and Program Coordinator.    Complete necessary documents and submit in a timely manner, such as bus run timetable and van log.   Provide and ensure appropriate levels of supervision for each individual’s needs and routines and necessary protective measures to always ensure the safety of the individual(s) while promoting recreational enjoyment and socialization among program participants.    Promote and support the inclusion of individuals in their community according to their unique needs, interests, and desires. Model and encourage interaction between individuals and community members.  Foster individuals’ personal growth by assisting in forming and maintaining friendships with peers and members of the community.    Actively engage in all program services as needed, including toileting, behavioral interventions, community inclusion, emergencies, physical plant cleanliness, etc. as needed and required.    Respect and affirm the human rights, civil rights and responsibilities of the people supported.    Safeguard and respect the confidentiality and privacy of all staff and individuals. Adhere to all HIPPA policies.   Report all incidents to program management immediately upon discovery as per HeartShare policy, and    OPWD & Justice Center requirements including:    Immediately safeguard all individuals and assist with the completion of paperwork as required.    Assist program coordinator in securing safeguards/protective measures and notifications for incidents.    Ensure all occurrence reports are filled out correctly and given to the program coordinator the same day.    Transportation:    Transport individuals as required and ensure that all participants are wearing a seat belt when the vehicle is in motion.    Become familiar with the route by mapping the addresses in order.    Provide assistance to individuals getting on and off the vehicle and to and from door as needed.    Follow all agency policies and procedures, as well as state and federal regulations, to maintain compliance. Complete and submit all written reports and documentation promptly, such as van logs.    Report any hazards or unsafe conditions immediately to supervisor.    Follow agency policy on cleanliness and overall maintenance and care of van.    Maintain professionalism by using positive approaches when handling difficult situations.  Avoid gossip and negative discussions.  Be flexible and adapt to change.    Advocate appropriately and professionally on behalf of individuals.    Serve as a role model for individuals and co-workers.  Abide by division’s dress code.  Always conduct oneself in a professional manner.    Remain sensitive, respectful, and responsive to cultural differences of all individuals, program staff, and the surrounding community.    Participate in staff meetings, in-service trainings and on-site workshops as required for professional growth and development.  Maintain certification in driver safety as required.    Represent HeartShare both within and outside the organization in a manner that promotes the mission, vision, and values of the agency.  Personally, adhere to HeartShare’s Standards & Values Statement, in addition to all other agency policies and procedures.    Undertake any additional tasks and initiatives as per the specific needs of the programs and individuals and as assigned by supervisor.