Day Habilitation Specialist

At The New York Foundling, we trust in the power and potential of people, and we deliberately invest in proven practices. From bold beginnings in 1869, our New York-based nonprofit has supported hundreds of thousands of our neighbors on their own paths to stability, strength, and independence. We help children and families navigate through and beyond foster care. We help families struggling with conflict and poverty grow strong. We help individuals with developmental disabilities live their best lives, and we help our neighbors access quality health and mental health services core to building lifelong resilience and wellbeing. Together, our interrelated programs provide a whole-person, whole-family, and whole-life approach that unlocks solutions for a lifetime.

The New York Foundling has served people with developmental disabilities since 1974, beginning with children and gradually expanding services to all ages, including the growing population of elders with developmental disabilities. The Developmental Division strives to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live as they choose, actively engaged in the community, pursuing their goals and interests through a choice of supported residential options, health services, meaningful activities, and employment opportunities.

Under the supervision of the Day Habilitation Manager of NYF Day Habilitation Services, the Day Habilitation Specialists is responsible for the following:

Program:
a. Disability Specialist displays a congenial, warm acceptance for all consumers.
b. They interact constantly with the consumers to develop a sense of security and belonging.
b. Is responsible for the care and supervision of the consumers visiting the particular program assigned.
c. Interprets the Agency policies and program to the consumer, other Day Habilitation Specialist and the community.
d. Is alert to the expressions of attitudes, feelings and relationships of each consumer. Develops an awareness of the individual consumer's needs, not only through the observation and interaction of everyday living but, also through a study of the consumer's case history and by appropriate consultation with other members of the staff.
e. Keeps a record of pertinent observations and impressions about the group and the individual's behavior.
f. Attempts to form a meaningful relationship with each consumer in the group. S/he helps each consumer make the most of his stay in direct care.
g. Is responsible for matters of everyday living concerning personal cleanliness of the consumer, and care and cleanliness of the program area, furniture, supplies and habilitation activities.
h. Day Habilitation Specialist attend supervision and training as required.
i. It is essential that Day Habilitation Specialist provide a solid program of constructive and interesting activities for the consumers.
j. It is essential that Day Habilitation Specialist know and protect consumer's rights.
k. Close supervision of the consumers is a vital part of the Day Habilitation Specialists' responsibilities.
l. Day Habilitation Specialist must maintain control of the consumers within the program in a discreet and non-threatening manner.
m. Finally, Day Habilitation Specialist must keep accurate records, pertaining to the day-to-day operation of the Day Habilitation program. Be sure to record and report any unusual or bizarre behaviors or incidents.
n. Day Habilitation Specialist are required to have a high school diploma or GED and prior experience with OMRDD consumers preferred.

Reporting Relationships:
-Reports directly to Day Habilitation Manager or director for bi-weekly supervision.

Education Requirement:
-High School Diploma or equivalent with 5 years experience in the MR/DD field; or a Bachelors Degree in Psychology or related field and 1 year experience in the MR/DD field.

Other Requirements:
-Familiarity of IRA regulations relative to residential habilitation.
-Proficient in computer applications
-Valid NY, NJ, CT, or PA driver's license required with 6 points or less

The New York Foundling is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse employee population, the Foundling will honor your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable and welcoming.

Salary Range

17.22-18.02

Education: High School Diploma or Higher; ?Valid NY, NJ, CT, or PA driver's license required with 6 points or less