1st Shift Direct Care

Mental Health Association - Western MA; Ludlow (MA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

The Residential Support Specialist at Mental Health Association supports individuals with acquired brain injuries in a secure living environment, promoting growth, independence and community engagement, aligned with MHA's core values of Respect, Integrity, and Compassion.

This role includes weekend scheduling (Open Shift Sat-Mon 8am-4pm), assisting with personal care, daily routines, meals, finances, transportation, and documentation.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 18; high school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Six months of relevant experience preferred, especially with individuals with brain injuries or mental health challenges.
• Willingness and ability to obtain certifications in medication administration (MAP), CPR, and first aid.

Responsibilities

• Communicate respectfully with participants to promote self-esteem, empowerment, and independence.
• Assist with personal care, daily routines, meal preparation, and support participants in managing finances and transportation.
• Facilitate access to community resources, teach self-advocacy skills, and implement individualized service plans.
• Complete all required documentation, track progress, and report incidents, emergencies, or concerns promptly.
• Maintain scheduling flexibility, participate in team meetings, and attend required trainings.
• Demonstrate professionalism, collaborate with the team, and support program goals.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position Summary

The Residential Support Specialist plays a crucial role in creating a supportive and secure living environment for individuals with acquired brain injuries. This position promotes personal growth, independence, and community engagement, embodying MHA's Core Values of Respect, Integrity, and Compassion, while adhering to all relevant policies and guidelines.

Pay Range: $19-$21 an hour

Open Shift: Saturday through Monday 8am-4pm (24hrs)

Key Responsibilities

• Communicate respectfully with participants to promote self-esteem, empowerment, and independence.
• Assist with personal care, daily routines, meal preparation, and support participants in managing finances and transportation.
• Facilitate access to community resources, teach self-advocacy skills, and implement individualized service plans.
• Complete all required documentation, track progress, and report incidents, emergencies, or concerns promptly.
• Maintain scheduling flexibility, participate in team meetings, and attend required trainings.
• Demonstrate professionalism, collaborate with the team, and support program goals.

About New Ways Services - (ABI Division)

New Way is MHA's residential and community-based program supporting individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI) from trauma, stroke, or serious illness. Our team helps participants overcome physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges, build skills, and gain independence through personalized care, meaningful daily routines, and supportive homes in welcoming neighborhoods. With 24/7 support, nursing, clinical, and therapeutic services, we help participants reconnect with their communities, regain confidence, and live life to the fullest.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

• Valid driver's license, sufficient insurance, and a reliable vehicle.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing time and priorities effectively.
• Flexibility to adapt to the evolving needs of participants.
• Ability to provide personal care, including assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility.
• Willingness and ability to obtain certifications in medication administration (MAP), CPR, and first aid.
• Minimum age of 18; high school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Six months of relevant experience preferred, especially with individuals with brain injuries or mental health challenges.