Founded in 2020, Autism Sanctuary is a public, non-profit organization serving Central Virginia and located in White Hall, Virginia, roughly twenty minutes away from the University of Virginia. The Sanctuary is situated on an 85-acre property equipped with miles of walking trails, cattle pastures, gardens, and an expansive forest. Through its landscape and amenities, Autism Sanctuary strives to promote the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive benefits of connecting with nature for those with autism, and by extension, provide agricultural work, skill building opportunities, and respite for these individuals. 

Autism Sanctuary is seeking passionate, experienced individuals to support adults with developmental disabilities in our day support programming. Ideal candidates should be passionate about assisting those with developmental disabilities, work well with others, and fulfill the minimum requirements as listed below. Should you have any questions, please contact Olivia Bruno at olivia@autismsanctuary.org.

Responsibilities

• Care of individuals receiving services, helps to assist these individuals with: participating in activities, learning new skills, and activities of daily living
• Assists supervisor with planning activities
• Assists supervisor with completion of documentation and medical billing when necessary
• Watches for and assists with any crisis interventions, when necessary
• Watches for and reports any changes in behaviors of those receiving services to supervisor

Qualifications

• Has demonstrated ability to support those with intellectual/developmental disabilities - This includes, but is not limited to: first hand experience, academic courses, research experience in the area of developmental/intellectual disabilities, or abilities approved at the discretion of the supervisor through observation during a supervised training session or other means.
• Has strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills

Certifications

• CPR/first-aid training required before start of position (*training will be provided upon hire if not certified*)
• As appropriate, shall be certified in medication administration within six months of hire or complete annual refresher training if already trained
• As appropriate, shall be certified in crisis and de-escalation techniques if not already trained, or complete annual refresher training if already trained

Hired individuals must be able to provide their own transportation to and from the job, as well as consent to a background check. 

This role reports to: the Director of Applied Practice and DSP supervisors 

At Autism Sanctuary, Inc., we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We believe in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We celebrate differences and strive to foster an environment free from discrimination and harassment. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply and join us in our mission to support and empower individuals with autism and their families.