Luna Support Homes

Position Title: Developmental Support Worker
Location: Grande Prairie, Alberta
Employment Type: Full-Time Permanent

Hours of Work: 4 on 4 off, Asleep nights

We are currently seeking a dedicated Developmental Support Worker who will serve as a positive role model to support, lead, and motivate change for vulnerable populations. You will have the opportunity to model healthy relationships, encourage positive behavior, and design activities to promote the overall welfare of supported individuals, all while increasing your knowledge of person-centered approaches, trauma-informed care and therapeutic programming.

About Mountain Plains Community Services Society of the North (MPCSSN):

Established in 1972, MPCSSN is a non-profit organization dedicated to delivering diverse community and family-focused programming tailored to the unique needs of Alberta's Northwest region. We collaborate with Alberta Health Services and Alberta Human Services to provide comprehensive support services. Our organization is accredited by CARF International and is a proud member of the ALIGN Association of Community Services and the Children’s Welfare League of Canada.

About the Luna Program:

The Luna Program is committed to empowering adults with developmental disabilities by providing personalized care in a cooperative living setting that fosters independence, personal growth, community integration and helping to navigate the hard parts of life. The Luna Programs supports adults living with different abilities in collaboration with family members as well as program funders (Persons with Developmental Disabilities) to provide high quality, holistic services to supported individuals.

Role Overview:

As a Developmental Support Worker, you will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. Your role will involve providing hands-on support, implementing individualized life skills programs, and taking a proactive approach to foster client independence and personal growth. Supported individuals are semi-independent, and are able to move through daily living tasks with low-moderate support. This position requires flexibility, patience, and strong problem-solving and communication skills. You will also be responsible for transporting clients to community activities and appointments, making reliable transportation a key component of the role.

Our Commitment to You:

• Core training upon hiring in Trauma-Informed Care, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, First Aid, and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training; ongoing professional development opportunities, including training in person-centered care, Mental Health First Aid & therapeutic programming

• Vacation entitlement of two weeks in the first year, increasing to four weeks in the second year of employment

• Educational support after 2 years of employment

• Comprehensive benefits package at 3 months of employment

• $500.00 Wellness Spending Benefit as well as RRSP Matching Benefit up to $100 per month at 6 months employment

• $36,651.00 Annual Salary; Annual Salary Increment of $1000.00 up to six (6) years of employment

• 4 on 4 off asleep night role, with the expectation that staff are supporting clients for the first 3 hours and last hour of shift. Plus ability to respond to needs of client throughout the night if needed.

Key Responsibilities:

Personalized Support: Assist clients with daily living activities, including personal care, meal preparation, and household management, ensuring their comfort and safety.

Community Integration: Support clients in participating in community activities, fostering social connections, and promoting inclusivity.

Skill Development: Develop and implement individualized support plans focusing on life skills enhancement, such as communication, financial management, public transit, etc. Proactively identify opportunities to help clients achieve their goals and adjust as necessary.

Transportation: Provide reliable transportation for supported individuals to appointments, social events, and community programs, ensuring punctuality and safety.

Advocacy: Advocate for individuals’ rights and needs within the community and support them in accessing necessary services and resources.

Documentation: Maintain accurate records of individuals’ progress, incidents, and any changes in their needs or preferences.

Team Collaboration: Work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including healthcare professionals, service coordinators, funders, and family members to deliver cohesive and comprehensive support.

Qualifications:

• Education: 2+ Year completed post-secondary diploma or degree. Educational background in Disability Studies, Social Work, Human Services, or a related field an asset.
• Experience: Preferred previous experience in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities or otherwise vulnerable populations an asset.
• Valid Alberta Class 5 Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
• Clear Criminal Records Check and Children’s Services Intervention Record Check.
• Vehicle insurance with $2 million liability and reliable access to a reliable vehicle.