Careers
Interested in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities? We’d love to hear from you.
The role
What is a Direct Support Professional?
A Direct Support Professional, or DSP, supports a person with a developmental disability in the parts of life most of us take for granted: getting through the day, getting out and spending time with people.
It’s hands-on, people-first work. A good day is measured by whether the person you support got to live it their way.
Day to day
What the work involves
Support meaningful everyday experiences, one person and one day at a time.
Everyday routines
Helping with the everyday parts of life, the way each person likes them done.
Activities and outings
Joining activities and outings, from museum visits to walks to seasonal events.
Choices and independence
Encouraging choices and independence, rather than doing things for people.
Notes and plans
Keeping clear notes and following each person’s plan.
Teamwork
Working as part of a team, and keeping communication open.
A day in the role
The shape of a day
No two days are the same. Here’s the shape a day can take.
Catching up
Reading the notes, checking the plan and finding out what the person wants from the day.
The everyday
Helping with routines, the way the person likes them done.
Getting out
A walk, a museum visit or a seasonal event, when that’s the plan.
Wrapping up
Writing clear notes, so the whole team knows how the day went.
Who does well here
Patience. Reliability. A sense of humor. Respect for people’s right to make their own choices.
If you like being useful and enjoy getting to know people, this work fits.
The work
Why the work matters
Purpose
You’ll see the difference you make, day to day.
Variety
No two days, and no two people, are the same.
Connection
You’ll get to know people well, and they’ll get to know you.
Community
Part of the job is getting out and enjoying where we live.
Joining Avenues
How to get started
Learn about the role
Read about what DSPs do and the shape a day can take.
Tell us you’re interested
Share your name, how to reach you and a little about yourself, using the form below.
Go to the formTalk it through
We’ll talk about the role and answer your questions.
Common questions
Questions about the work
Who will I be supporting?
Individuals with developmental disabilities, each with their own routines, interests and goals. Getting to know each person, and what matters to them, is part of the job.
Will I spend time out in the community?
Yes. Community activities and outings are part of life at Avenues, from museum visits and walks to seasonal events.
Will I be part of a team?
Yes. DSPs work as part of a team, and keeping communication open is part of the job.
What should I include when I reach out?
Your name, how to reach you and a few sentences about why the work interests you. Please don’t include sensitive personal details, such as your Social Security number.
Interested?
Tell us you’re interested
Share your name, how to reach you, and a little about yourself.