Join the SPARKS Team – Make a Meaningful Difference
Are you looking for a career that is meaningful, rewarding, and more than just a job? At SPARKS, we offer an opportunity to make a real impact in the lives of others while building fulfilling professional relationships.
SPARKS is a recreational and community-based service provider supporting adults with developmental disabilities. Our mission is to promote independence, community engagement, and meaningful experiences for the participants we serve. Each day at SPARKS is filled with activities that encourage creativity, social connection, and personal growth. Through structured programs, community engagement, and skill-building opportunities, our participants are supported in pursuing their goals while living a fulfilled life.
Our team of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provides mentorship, leadership, and person-centered support to program participants. Staff help facilitate a variety of daily activities and experiences designed to promote engagement and inclusion within the community. Activities may include visits to community attractions such as COSI (Center of Science and Industry), bowling outings, park visits, and other recreational or educational opportunities. Our goal is to ensure every participant has the opportunity to remain active, connected, and involved in their community.
In addition to providing direct support services, staff also assist with transportation for participants traveling to and from the program. Transportation is provided using transit vehicles and mini-vans. No special license is required.
Job Description Activity Specialist / Direct Support Professional (DSP)Position Summary
Activity Specialists (DSPs) are responsible for organizing, implementing, and supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in daily activities and programming. Staff ensure participants remain engaged in meaningful activities throughout the day while promoting independence, choice, and person-centered supports.
Responsibilities include facilitating recreational activities, supporting vocational training opportunities, assisting with personal needs, accommodating for participant specific supports, transporting, and completing daily documentation. The position requires flexibility, teamwork, and a commitment to supporting individuals in achieving their personal goals and outcomes.
Employees are expected to collaborate with supervisors and support staff to meet program needs. Duties and schedules may vary depending on programming and participant needs.
Essential Responsibilities
Organize, lead, and encourage participation in recreational, educational, and vocational activities including arts and crafts, team-building activities, continued education opportunities, and self-advocacy events.Support participants in individualized programming aligned with their personal goals, action plans, and outcome objectives.Assist with SPARKS projects, group activities, vocational training opportunities, and community-integrated experiences.Ensure individuals remain engaged, supported, and empowered to make choices throughout the day.Promote person-centered planning and support participant direction in decision-making.Assist with participant arrival and dismissal procedures.Work independently with individuals or collaboratively with team members as needed.Encourage social interaction, meaningful discussions, and relationship-building among participants.Maintain familiarity with participant plans and documentation including Imagine Plans, Individual Service Plans (ISP), Discovery documents, Emergency Medical Plans, and Behavior Support Plans when applicable.Use proactive strategies to redirect behaviors and support positive outcomes when challenges arise.Observe and report any concerns regarding participant wellbeing or living conditions to supervisors.Maintain accurate documentation regarding services provided and participant progress.Support individuals during community outings and ensure safety and organization in public settings.Assist with personal care needs such as restroom and change assist when required.Assist with meal preparation when needed.Administer medications if properly trained and authorized.Transport participants before, after and during community activities using SPARKS passenger vehicles.Key Skills and Competencies
Active Listening
Ability to fully engage with individuals, understand their needs, and respond appropriately.
Coordination
Ability to adjust actions and provide support based on the needs and behaviors of others.
Service Orientation
Demonstrating a strong commitment to helping and supporting individuals.
Time Management
Effectively managing time, schedules, and daily programming activities.
Monitoring
Assessing participant engagement, wellbeing, and program effectiveness.
Oral Comprehension
Ability to understand and communicate information clearly through spoken language.
Problem Sensitivity
Ability to recognize when issues may arise and respond proactively.
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