Group Respite Worker

Envision Unlimited is a full spectrum of care organization serving people with intellectual, developmental and psychiatric disabilities. Our mission is to provide quality services that promote choice, independence, and inclusion. Founded in Chicago in 1948, Envision Unlimited has a legacy of evolving care delivered with empathy, every time and everywhere. Our innovative services include community living options; novel day programs; employment, respite and mental health services, and foster care for children with disabilities.

Beyond our day-to-day efforts supporting members and their caregivers in Illinois, we are advocates, and Envision Unlimited's impact is far-reaching. Through outreach, evaluation, and service planning, we help thousands of people become part of the community, transition to safe homes, and access support services so they can live their lives to their greatest potential.

Program Description: Adventures Unlimited offers free activities for eligible participants that afford caregivers a few hours of respite with reduced responsibilities. An integral part of this respite experience is the assurance that each participant receives support from our dedicated and proficient staff. Our team at Adventures Unlimited diligently fosters relationships with participants, ensuring personalized care and attention to their unique needs.

Job Description: We are currently seeking compassionate and dedicated Group Respite Workers to join our team. As a Group Respite Worker, you will be responsible for providing assistance and support to individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities in the south Chicago suburban area. This vacancy will support individuals on an episodic basis with the opportunity for renewal based on performance and availability.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Essential Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Provide direct support to individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities in various activities of daily living, including personal care, meal preparation, etc
•  Assist individuals in participating in recreational and social activities in the community
• Foster a supportive and inclusive environment that respects the dignity, autonomy, and rights of each individual
• Communicate effectively with individuals, families, caregivers, and team members to ensure continuity of care and coordination of services
• Monitor and document individual progress, behaviors, and any incidents according to agency policies and procedures
• Provide transportation assistance to individuals as needed, ensuring their safety and well-being during travel
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities to enhance skills and knowledge in supporting individuals with disabilities
• Adhere to all agency policies, regulations, and ethical standards governing the provision of services to individuals with disabilities

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

No supervisory responsibilities.

OTHER EXPECTATIONS

Employees shall respect the diversity of all individuals (e.g., clients, co-workers, stakeholders) and refrain from any form of discrimination and/or based upon a person’s legally protected characteristics or conduct, including but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression. Employees share the responsibility of creating and maintaining a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive work environment. 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of all employees so classified.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, physical requirements may include standing, walking, and sitting; seeing; hearing and listening; clear speech; dexterity and use of hands and fingers.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment described here is representative of what an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. The work environment may include any or all of the following: working alone; working with others, verbal contact with others, and face-to-face contact.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.

EDUCATION, SKILLS, and/or EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or training in human services, special education, or related field preferred
• Previous experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities is preferred
• Ability to communicate effectively and interact professionally with individuals, families, caregivers, and team members
• Demonstrated ability to provide compassionate, person-centered care and support to individuals with diverse needs and abilities
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation are required; the ability to transport individuals using agency vehicles is a plus.
• Must pass background checks and drug screening as required by agency regulations
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to meet the needs of individuals and the program
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred, or willingness to obtain upon hire
• Successful completion of Rule 50 Training and DCFS reporting upon hire

Benefits:

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience and qualifications.
• Paid training and ongoing support from experienced professionals in the field.
• A rewarding work environment with the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and meet the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply for our Seasonal Support Worker position in the south Chicago suburban area. Join our team and help us empower individuals to live their best lives!

 Envision Unlimited provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.