An Evening that Brings Together Families, Providers, and Community Partners!
On Tuesday, June 23, Community Supports Network proudly hosted our Annual Resource Fair for DDD-Eligible Individuals and Families at Bergen Community College’s Technology Education Center in Paramus, New Jersey.
What an incredible evening!
We had an outstanding turnout of families, providers, community organizations, and professionals from across the state at this event. This served as a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together with a shared goal: supporting individuals with disabilities and their families.
Attendees had many opportunities to connect directly with agencies and service providers, explore valuable resources, and learn about available supports. Consequently, these relationships will help individuals thrive at every stage of life in the future.
For many families, navigating services and supports can feel overwhelming. Thus events like the Annual Resource Fair provide meaningful conversations, education, and connections in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Whether attendees were seeking information about adult services, employment supports, recreation programs, educational resources, healthcare providers, or community organizations, there was something for everyone.
We were honored to welcome dozens of participating vendors and organizations who generously shared their expertise, programs, and services with attendees. Their commitment to serving individuals with disabilities helps strengthen our communities and create more opportunities for inclusion and independence.
Most importantly, the evening highlighted the power of collaboration. When providers, families, advocates, and community partners come together, we create stronger support systems and brighter futures for the individuals we serve.
To everyone who attended, exhibited, volunteered, and helped make this event possible — thank you. Your participation and dedication are what make events like this so impactful.
We are truly grateful for the opportunity to bring our community together at this event. Furthermore, we are looking forward to continuing to create spaces where connections are made. This will ensure that resources are shared and individuals and their families will feel supported every step of the way.
Together, we are building a more inclusive New Jersey.
For a list of vendors that participated at the EXPO, please download it here!
As the school year comes to a close, summer brings exciting opportunities for fun, exploration, and new experiences. For individuals with disabilities and their families, however, summer can also present a challenge: finding activities that are engaging, inclusive, and meaningful.
The good news is that New Jersey offers countless opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to stay active, connected, and involved throughout the summer months. Whether through recreation, volunteering, community events, educational programs, or simply exploring new places, summer can be a season filled with growth, confidence-building, and memorable experiences.
Why Meaningful Engagement Matters
Summer activities provide more than just entertainment. They help individuals develop social skills, build independence, strengthen communication abilities, and foster a sense of belonging within their communities.
Participating in community-based experiences can also:
Encourage friendships and social connections
Promote physical and emotional well-being
Build confidence and self-esteem
Support the development of daily living and life skills
Create opportunities to discover new interests and talents
Most importantly, meaningful engagement helps individuals feel connected to their communities and valued for who they are.
Exploring New Jersey’s Opportunities
One of the greatest advantages of living in New Jersey is the wide variety of accessible and inclusive opportunities available throughout the state.
Parks and Nature Centers
New Jersey offers a variety of accessible outdoor spaces where individuals can explore nature, stay active, and enjoy the summer months.
Many of these locations offer paved walking paths, accessible facilities, sensory-friendly experiences, and opportunities for family outings.
Libraries and Community Centers
Libraries are often one of New Jersey’s most inclusive and affordable resources.
Look for:
Summer Reading Programs at local public libraries
Sensory-friendly story times
Arts and crafts workshops
Technology and computer classes
Social clubs and game nights
Adaptive recreation programs through local recreation departments
Many county library systems, including those in Bergen, Morris, Essex, Monmouth, and Camden Counties, offer inclusive programming throughout the summer.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Museums provide opportunities to learn, explore interests, and experience new environments.
Many museums now offer sensory-friendly hours, accessibility accommodations, and interactive exhibits.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering can help individuals develop confidence, responsibility, and community connections.
Potential opportunities may include:
Local food banks and food pantries
Community gardens
Animal shelters and rescues
Public library volunteer programs
Faith-based organizations
Environmental clean-up events
Community fairs and nonprofit events
Families can also contact local municipalities and nonprofits to learn about volunteer opportunities that match an individual’s interests and abilities.
Community Events and Festivals
Summer is one of the best times to experience New Jersey communities.
Consider attending:
Local farmers markets
Outdoor movie nights
County fairs
Summer concerts in the park
Food truck festivals
Boardwalk events along the Jersey Shore
Cultural festivals and heritage celebrations
Inclusive Recreation Programs
Many organizations throughout New Jersey offer specialized and inclusive recreational opportunities.
These programs often provide opportunities for sports, socialization, skill-building, and community engagement.
Focus on Interests, Not Just Activities
When planning summer experiences, it can be helpful to start with an individual’s interests rather than searching for activities based solely on a diagnosis or disability.
Ask questions such as:
What brings them joy?
What are they curious about?
What skills would they like to develop?
What types of environments help them feel comfortable and successful?
A meaningful summer experience doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. Sometimes the most impactful opportunities come from pursuing personal interests, building relationships, and participating in everyday community life.
Creating Opportunities for Growth
Summer offers a unique chance to try something new. Whether it’s learning a new skill, joining a recreational program, exploring a local attraction, or volunteering in the community, every experience can contribute to personal growth and increased independence.
At Community Supports Network, we believe that meaningful community engagement plays an important role in helping individuals live fulfilling, self-directed lives. By focusing on strengths, interests, and opportunities for connection, families and caregivers can help create a summer filled with discovery, confidence, and lasting memories.
CSN Summer Tip
Rather than trying to fill every day with activities, focus on creating a balance of routine, rest, and meaningful experiences. Maintaining some structure while allowing room for exploration can help individuals feel secure, engaged, and empowered throughout the summer months.
No matter where you live in New Jersey, meaningful experiences are waiting to be found. This summer, consider stepping outside familiar routines, exploring new possibilities, and embracing opportunities that help individuals thrive in their communities.
The North Jersey Youth Transition Expo & Annual Resource Fair is an event for families and parents or guardians of young adults age 21 or older to find support resources. Among the many resources that will be exhibited at this expo event include support coordination agencies, support coordinators, and service providers. These providers are the companies who provide support professionals to help families care for a person with autism or other IDD conditions.
Our company, Community Supports Network LLC, is one of the support providers with an exhibit table at this event. We hope to see you there!
✨ Free for providers and families. ✨ Discover valuable resources. ✨ Network with agencies and families. ✨ Light refreshments provided.
Key Event Details
This year’s NJ DDD Annual Resource Fair will be held as follows:
WHEN:TUESDAY JUNE 23, 2026 @ 4PM-7PM
WHERE:
Bergen Community College Technology Education Center 400 Paramus Rd, Paramus, NJ
More information to be added shortly along with an updated entry in our website’s online event calendar!
Join us at this exciting and inclusive event in Boonton, NJ!
We will have a table at this expo event at 6 PM on April 28, 2026, to be held at the Boonton High School, where our team members will be present to answer questions from the public. We will be sharing our success stories with families and young adults seeking ways to gain self-confidence and skills to transition into independent life as an adult. Find out how we can help!
As a provider of DDD-approved support services, we (and many others) will be there to help you and your loved ones find answers to topics such as:
Post-Secondary Options
DDD Support Coordination
DDD Direct Service Providers (like us!)
Recreation Options
Financial Planning
Community Access
Supported Employment
Key Event Details
WHERE: Boonton High School, 306 Lathrop Avenue, Boonton, NJ 07005
HOSTED BY: The North Jersey Transition Partnership (i.e. DVRS and Dawn Center for Independent Living)
WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Families and students with a 504 or IEP working through the transition phase from age 14 onwards, plus young adults with disabilities and their parents or guardians.
This past weekend, Community Supports Network (CSN) had the pleasure of participating in a wonderful community event at the Wayne Community Center—and what an incredible day it was.
From the moment the doors opened, the space was filled with energy, connection, and a shared commitment to inclusion. Families, caregivers, professionals, and community members came together to learn more about available resources, connect with local organizations, and celebrate the strength and diversity of the disability community.
A Day Centered on Connection
One of the most meaningful parts of the event was the opportunity to connect face-to-face with so many families. We had the chance to listen to personal stories, answer questions, and provide guidance on navigating services and supports.
Whether it was a parent looking for resources for their child, a caregiver seeking community, or a professional wanting to collaborate, every conversation reinforced why events like this matter so much.
Sharing Resources That Make a Difference
At CSN, we are committed to ensuring individuals with disabilities and their families have access to the tools and support they need to thrive.
Throughout the day, our team shared information about:
Residential and community-based supports
Day and employment programs
Individualized services tailored to each person’s goals
Resources for families navigating the system
It was inspiring to see how eager attendees were to learn, ask questions, and explore new opportunities for support.
Celebrating Inclusion in Action
Events like this are a powerful reminder that inclusion isn’t just an idea—it’s something we actively build together.
Seeing so many organizations, families, and advocates in one place highlighted the importance of collaboration and community partnership. When we come together, we create stronger, more inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to belong and succeed.
Thank You to Our Community
We are so grateful to everyone who stopped by our table, shared their stories, and spent time with our team. Your openness, trust, and engagement mean everything to us.
A special thank you to the organizers of the Wayne Community Center event for creating such a welcoming and impactful space for our community.
Looking Ahead
At CSN, our work doesn’t stop when the event ends.
We are excited to continue building relationships, supporting families, and expanding access to inclusive services throughout our community. If you connected with us at the event—or if you’re just learning about CSN—we invite you to stay in touch, explore our services, and join us in creating a more inclusive future.
We are excited to announce that CSN will be joining others presenting at the NJSEAA/DVRS (Bergen County) Transition Fair on Wednesday March 18th at the Paramus High School!
The Fair will be open to the public free of charge from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the evening of Wednesday, March 18th in the Paramus High School’s gym.
Exhibitors will arrive beginning at 5p.m. to set up their tables in advance of this event.
Key Details
Venue: Paramus High School, 99 East Century Road, Paramus, NJ View on Google Maps
What It’s About: Resources for post-secondary transition, including DDD supports, vocational training, and educational programs.
Participants: Over 60 vendors and support providers are expected to attend, including our own team from Community Supports Network!
If you wish to contact the organizers of this event at the STRIVE team directly, please reach out to Caroline Kim, Transition Coordinator, via email ckim@ridgefieldschools.com or via telephone at 201-775-6454. You can also visit their website here.
Finally, if you wish to speak to someone within the CAPE Resource Center at the Bergen County Special Services Schools (BCSS) regarding this event, please contact Nicole Fried at 201-343-6000 x4067.
We are excited to announce our booth at this amazing event! Our support professionals and management team will be there to answer your questions and share information about the services we provide for young adults with disabilities and their families.
Please see below for more information and we hope to see you there on March 14, 2026!
Event Details
WHEN: Saturday, 3/14/2026 from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM
WHERE: Wayne Township Community Center, 1 Pike Drive, Wayne NJ 07470. View map
Every year, communities across the world come together for Night to Shine — an unforgettable, free prom-style celebration for teens and adults with special needs. What looks like a dance at first glance is actually something much deeper: a night that honors worth, builds confidence, and creates lasting joy for people who are too often overlooked.
For adults with disabilities, events like Night to Shine are more than just a party. They are opportunities for connection, celebration, self-expression, and belonging — experiences that are vital to a full and meaningful life.
🎉 Why Inclusive Prom Matters
Prom is a cultural milestone — a chance to dress up, be seen, celebrate with friends, and create memories. But for many adults with disabilities, traditional social events like this are rare or inaccessible due to physical, sensory, or social barriers.
That’s where Night to Shine steps in.
Instead of being an afterthought, adults with disabilities are front and center:
Red carpet entrances with cheering crowds and photos
Crowns and titles for every guest of honor
Music, dancing, and food
Volunteer support and sensory-friendly spaces
A community gathering that honors dignity and joy
These events remind all of us that joy is essential, not optional — and that every person deserves to be celebrated exactly as they are.
🌍 Night to Shine: A Global Celebration
Hosted annually by the Tim Tebow Foundation, Night to Shine takes place on the Friday before Valentine’s Day in hundreds of host locations across the United States and around the world. It’s built on the idea that every human life is worthy of celebration.
While each local event is unique, they all share one common goal: to create a night where adults and teens with special needs are treated as kings and queens for a night.
Night to Shine thrives on community volunteers. If you want to be part of creating joyful, life-affirming experiences for attendees:
Go to the Night to Shine site
Select your host location
Complete the volunteer form for that specific event
Volunteers help with everything from red-carpet cheering and greeting to hair, makeup, limo rides, dancing, and sensory support.
🎶 More Than a Dance — A Statement of Belonging
Inclusive prom nights like Night to Shine are powerful because they shift culture — from passive acceptance to active celebration of people with disabilities. These events remind us that dignity, joy, and community are not extras; they are essential parts of life.
At Community Supports Network, we believe in creating experiences that honor the full person. Whether it’s through social events, opportunities for connection, or everyday moments of support, we are committed to helping every person feel valued, seen, and celebrated — not just for one night, but every day.
The holiday season is often described as magical, joyful, and full of tradition — but for many individuals with disabilities and their families, this time of year can also bring sensory overload, routine disruptions, and added stress. At Community Supports Network (CSN), we know that everyone deserves to feel included, comfortable, and valued during holiday gatherings. With a little planning and a lot of empathy, we can all help make celebrations more accessible and meaningful for everyone.
Create Sensory-Friendly Spaces
Holiday environments are often filled with bright lights, loud music, large crowds, and strong smells — all of which can be overwhelming. Providing a quiet, low-stim room gives people a chance to reset whenever needed. Soft lighting, noise-reducing headphones, weighted blankets, or familiar items from home can make a big difference.
Honor Routines and Predictability
Changes in routine can be difficult, especially during a season full of unexpected events. Preparing visual schedules, communicating plans clearly, and offering advance notice of transitions can help reduce anxiety. Keeping certain familiar routines in place — like bedtime or mealtime rituals — can help provide a sense of stability.
Offer Choices, Not Pressure
Not everyone wants to join every activity, and that’s okay. Instead of insisting someone sit through a long dinner, participate in a group game, or take photos, offer options. Choice empowers individuals, reduces stress, and supports independence — values at the core of CSN’s mission.
Think About Accessibility
From physical accessibility to communication preferences, small adjustments can open doors for meaningful participation. Ensure pathways are clear, chairs are easy to move, and activities can be adapted. For individuals who use communication devices or need extra processing time, be patient and supportive.
Be Mindful of Sensory-Friendly Foods
Holiday meals can be filled with unfamiliar textures, smells, and flavors. Offer safe foods alongside traditional dishes without pressure to try new items. This simple act of respect can help everyone feel comfortable at the table.
Celebrate in Ways Everyone Can Enjoy
Focus on connection, not perfection. Adapt games, break activities into small steps, or incorporate interests and strengths. Whether it’s decorating cookies, driving around to look at holiday lights, or enjoying a familiar movie, inclusion flourishes when everyone feels welcome.
Support Caregivers
The holidays can be especially demanding for caregivers. Offering help, providing breaks, and showing genuine appreciation goes a long way. Even small gestures can lighten the emotional and physical load during an already busy season.
Reach out!
At CSN, we believe that inclusion isn’t seasonal — it’s a way of life. If your family is looking for support, resources, or compassionate DSP services in New Jersey, we’re here to help. Visit www.yourcsn.com to learn more about how we empower individuals and families to thrive all year long.
At Community Supports Network (CSN), we believe inclusive spaces do more than open their doors—they open possibilities. When individuals with disabilities are not just welcomed but actively empowered, communities grow stronger, perspectives shift, and the true meaning of belonging comes to life.
Yesterday, we visited I’m Possible Café, a pop-up breakfast café operating inside Seven Scoops & Sips in Pine Brook, NJ — and what we experienced was more than just good coffee. It was community in motion.
A Space Built on Opportunity and Dignity
I’m Possible Café offers adults with disabilities the chance to work, connect, and gain real-world experience in a public-facing environment. From greeting customers to preparing and serving coffee and breakfast items, to actively working as the cashier, each role is filled with purpose and pride.
These moments matter. When individuals are seen for what they can do rather than what others assume they can’t, confidence grows. Skills build. Futures expand. This is the kind of environment that changes lives. Not just for those working there, but for every customer who walks in and sees ability in action.
Why Inclusive Community Spaces Matter
Employment isn’t just about a paycheck — it’s about belonging, identity, and contribution. Far too often, people with disabilities are left out of public-facing workplaces. Not because they are incapable, but because opportunity is withheld.
Spaces like I’m Possible Café flip that narrative. They don’t just provide jobs — they model what equitable employment can and should look like. When customers order a cup of Café Joyeux coffee, they’re not just starting their morning — they’re engaging with a workforce that is talented, capable, and deserving of visibility.
A Community Experience That Feels Like Connection
What struck us most was the energy—warm, welcoming, and filled with genuine joy. Team members weren’t just performing tasks; they were contributing to an environment that felt hopeful and human. You don’t leave this café the same way you entered. You leave more aware. More inspired. More certain that inclusion is not just possible — it’s powerful.
Join Them for the Grand Opening (Saturday, October 25 at 8:00 AM)
The community is invited to celebrate I’m Possible Café’s Grand Opening this Saturday, October 25, starting at 8:00 AM. It’s a perfect moment to show up, enjoy breakfast and Café Joyeux coffee, and cheer on a team making inclusion visible — and delicious.
How to Support I’m Possible Café
If you’re local and looking for a meaningful way to support inclusive employment, stop by, grab breakfast, and share in their mission.
At CSN, our work is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to grow, contribute, and be part of something bigger than themselves. I’m Possible Café reflects that same belief—one cup, one conversation, and one opportunity at a time.
Because inclusion shouldn’t be an exception. It should be the standard.
If you attend the Grand Opening, tag us and I’m Possible Café so we can share your photos and keep the momentum going.
Provides direct support to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
May be required to offer verbal prompts with completion of ADL’s including but not limited to personal care tasks, including assistance with basic personal hygiene and grooming, feeding, and ambulation, medical monitoring, and health care related tasks.
Assists in being a positive role model for the client.
Ensures client safety and helps to maintain a safe environment.
Reminds and assists clients with self-administration of medications (with proper training).
Encourages self-help activities.
Reports changes in client’s condition or family situation to administrators and supervisors.
Documents all services provided in accordance with their NJISP outcomes.
Assists client in home management functions such as light housekeeping, laundry, bed making, and cleaning.
Assists in the planning of meals, shopping for groceries, preparing and serving food/meals, feeding and clean-up.
Transports and accompanies clients to scheduled appointments and to activities within the community.
Participates in the development and support of a Person-Centered Plan.
Work Schedule:
Our schedule favors a flexible workweek. Once clients are assigned, a DSP will maintain their work schedule in accordance with the demands and schedule as are mutually agreed upon at time of hire.
Direct Support Professional Qualifications / Skills:
Ability to work within the community or in a home-based setting.
Communication skills (verbally and written) with all levels of personnel, internal and external to the company.
Ability to handle physical aspects of job, including bending, stooping, lifting, as well as engaging in physical activities as are needed.
Above all, DSP’s should be patient and empathetic. Our best candidates display excellent communication and listening skills.
Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:
High School diploma, GED, or equivalent
20 years of age or older
Valid New Jersey driver’s license with fewer than 5 points in moving violations
Provides direct support to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
May be required to offer verbal prompts with completion of ADL’s including but not limited to personal care tasks, including assistance with basic personal hygiene and grooming, feeding, and ambulation, medical monitoring, and health care related tasks.
Assists in being a positive role model for the client.
Ensures client safety and helps to maintain a safe environment.
Reminds and assists clients with self-administration of medications (with proper training).
Encourages self-help activities.
Reports changes in client’s condition or family situation to administrators and supervisors.
Documents all services provided in accordance with their NJISP outcomes.
Assists client in home management functions such as light housekeeping, laundry, bed making, and cleaning.
Assists in the planning of meals, shopping for groceries, preparing and serving food/meals, feeding and clean-up.
Transports and accompanies clients to scheduled appointments and to activities within the community.
Participates in the development and support of a Person-Centered Plan.
Work Schedule:
Our schedule favors a flexible workweek. Once clients are assigned, a DSP will maintain their work schedule in accordance with the demands and schedule as are mutually agreed upon at time of hire.
Direct Support Professional Qualifications / Skills:
Ability to work within the community or in a home-based setting.
Communication skills (verbally and written) with all levels of personnel, internal and external to the company.
Ability to handle physical aspects of job, including bending, stooping, lifting, as well as engaging in physical activities as are needed.
Above all, DSP’s should be patient and empathetic. Our best candidates display excellent communication and listening skills.
Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:
High School diploma, GED, or equivalent
20 years of age or older
Valid New Jersey driver’s license with fewer than 5 points in moving violations
Provides direct support to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
May be required to offer verbal prompts with completion of ADL’s including but not limited to personal care tasks, including assistance with basic personal hygiene and grooming, feeding, and ambulation, medical monitoring, and health care related tasks.
Assists in being a positive role model for the client.
Ensures client safety and helps to maintain a safe environment.
Reminds and assists clients with self-administration of medications (with proper training).
Encourages self-help activities.
Reports changes in client’s condition or family situation to administrators and supervisors.
Documents all services provided in accordance with their NJISP outcomes.
Assists client in home management functions such as light housekeeping, laundry, bed making, and cleaning.
Assists in the planning of meals, shopping for groceries, preparing and serving food/meals, feeding and clean-up.
Transports and accompanies clients to scheduled appointments and to activities within the community.
Participates in the development and support of a Person-Centered Plan.
Work Schedule:
Our schedule favors a flexible workweek. Once clients are assigned, a DSP will maintain their work schedule in accordance with the demands and schedule as are mutually agreed upon at time of hire.
Direct Support Professional Qualifications / Skills:
Ability to work within the community or in a home-based setting.
Communication skills (verbally and written) with all levels of personnel, internal and external to the company.
Ability to handle physical aspects of job, including bending, stooping, lifting, as well as engaging in physical activities as are needed.
Above all, DSP’s should be patient and empathetic. Our best candidates display excellent communication and listening skills.
Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:
High School diploma, GED, or equivalent
20 years of age or older
Valid New Jersey driver’s license with fewer than 5 points in moving violations
Provides direct support to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
May be required to offer verbal prompts with completion of ADL’s including but not limited to personal care tasks, including assistance with basic personal hygiene and grooming, feeding, and ambulation, medical monitoring, and health care related tasks.
Assists in being a positive role model for the client.
Ensures client safety and helps to maintain a safe environment.
Reminds and assists clients with self-administration of medications (with proper training).
Encourages self-help activities.
Reports changes in client’s condition or family situation to administrators and supervisors.
Documents all services provided in accordance with their NJISP outcomes.
Assists client in home management functions such as light housekeeping, laundry, bed making, and cleaning.
Assists in the planning of meals, shopping for groceries, preparing and serving food/meals, feeding and clean-up.
Transports and accompanies clients to scheduled appointments and to activities within the community.
Participates in the development and support of a Person-Centered Plan.
Work Schedule:
Our schedule favors a flexible workweek. Once clients are assigned, a DSP will maintain their work schedule in accordance with the demands and schedule as are mutually agreed upon at time of hire.
Direct Support Professional Qualifications / Skills:
Ability to work within the community or in a home-based setting.
Communication skills (verbally and written) with all levels of personnel, internal and external to the company.
Ability to handle physical aspects of job, including bending, stooping, lifting, as well as engaging in physical activities as are needed.
Above all, DSP’s should be patient and empathetic. Our best candidates display excellent communication and listening skills.
Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:
High School diploma, GED, or equivalent
20 years of age or older
Valid New Jersey driver’s license with fewer than 5 points in moving violations
Provides direct support to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
May be required to offer verbal prompts with completion of ADL’s including but not limited to personal care tasks, including assistance with basic personal hygiene and grooming, feeding, and ambulation, medical monitoring, and health care related tasks.
Assists in being a positive role model for the client.
Ensures client safety and helps to maintain a safe environment.
Reminds and assists clients with self-administration of medications (with proper training).
Encourages self-help activities.
Reports changes in client’s condition or family situation to administrators and supervisors.
Documents all services provided in accordance with their NJISP outcomes.
Assists client in home management functions such as light housekeeping, laundry, bed making, and cleaning.
Assists in the planning of meals, shopping for groceries, preparing and serving food/meals, feeding and clean-up.
Transports and accompanies clients to scheduled appointments and to activities within the community.
Participates in the development and support of a Person-Centered Plan.
Work Schedule:
Our schedule favors a flexible workweek. Once clients are assigned, a DSP will maintain their work schedule in accordance with the demands and schedule as are mutually agreed upon at time of hire.
Direct Support Professional Qualifications / Skills:
Ability to work within the community or in a home-based setting.
Communication skills (verbally and written) with all levels of personnel, internal and external to the company.
Ability to handle physical aspects of job, including bending, stooping, lifting, as well as engaging in physical activities as are needed.
Above all, DSP’s should be patient and empathetic. Our best candidates display excellent communication and listening skills.
Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:
High School diploma, GED, or equivalent
20 years of age or older
Valid New Jersey driver’s license with fewer than 5 points in moving violations
Zones (Areas): Essex County, Bergen County, Passaic County, and Morris County, NJ
Job Responsibilities:
Develop effective job coaching and employment plans in accordance with the state requirements.
Communicate with individuals to understand their goals and ambitions.
Assist individuals with disabilities to discover and overcome their personal barriers.
Seek job leads in accordance with the individual’s skills and interests.
Assess the strengths of individuals and teach them to use them effectively.
Guide individuals in learning to complete job tasks.
Develop community employer relationships to achieve job placement goals.
Provide coaching in effective job search techniques.
Assist people with disabilities in developing social and life skills.
Advise individuals on workplace accommodations for people with disabilities.
Monitor and evaluate the progress of assigned individuals.
Keep records and documentation and prepare appropriate reports.
Communicate with stakeholders, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors, and employers.
Work Schedule:
The schedule of the employment specialist requires that candidates be both flexible and autonomous. An ability to self-direct service activities with individuals while managing a changing and evolving caseload is important.
Employment Specialist Professional Qualifications / Skills:
High School diploma, GED, or equivalent
Experience working with individuals with I/DD
Boggs Center Employment Specialist Foundations Certification preferred, but not mandatory to apply
