Compassionate Respite Aide Opportunity

About Happiness House CP Rochester
Happiness House CP Rochester and its agencies have been serving communities in the Finger Lakes Region since 1969 and the Greater Rochester Area since 1946. We are private nonprofit health, educational, residential and human service organizations that offer an array of programs and services for children and adults with and without disabilities.

Our agencies serve approximately 3,650 families each year and employ around 600 people. Our staff consists of dedicated professionals and clinicians with expertise in various areas, including Special Education, Physical, Occupational, Speech and Music Therapies, Psychology, Service Coordination, Nursing, Dental Services, and Developmental Disabilities.

We are committed to supporting individuals with autism, traumatic brain injury, neurological impairments, as well as a wide variety of developmental disabilities such as cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. Our team partners with individuals and their families to help them meet their goals.

EEO Statement
Happiness House CP Rochester is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against employees or applicants in hiring, promotion, compensation, placement, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence or any other term or condition of employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty or status as a covered veteran, domestic violence victim status, prior arrest and conviction records or any other protected category in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.

About the Job
The Respite Worker will provide care in the home and other settings, creating a safe and positive environment that allows the primary caregiver to take a break or period of respite. The worker will provide supports to meet the needs of the individual, engage them in their chosen activities, and ensure their safety and dignity at all times.

Responsibilities

1. Impart agency philosophy of 'Equal Opportunity, Independence and Realization of Individual Potential' to children, families, program staff and community resources.
2. Maintain confidentiality of information relating to individuals and their families in accordance with agency policy.
3. Follow policies and procedures as per OPWDD guidelines.
4. Provide in-home respite care to individuals as outlined by the life plan.
5. Engage the individual in their chosen activities, which could include arts, crafts, outdoor play, games, etc.
6. Serve as an appropriate role model and engage in interactions which promote and ensure the dignity and rights of all participants, service providers, coworkers and community members.
7. Act as a professional representative of Happiness House CP Rochester in regards to appearance, behavior, temperament, communication, language and dress.
8. Report any issues or concerns to supervisor in a timely manner.
9. Follow agency incident procedure.
10. Complete and submit monthly documentation, representative of the service delivered.
11. Participate in conferences, workshops, department meetings and in-service training as needed or recommended to enhance job skills and personal growth and development.

Additional Information
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

1. One year experience and/or education in human services preferable.
2. Prior experience working with individuals who have developmental disabilities and autism is preferred.
3. High School Diploma or GED preferred.
4. Ability to work independently and motivate others.
5. Knowledge of community resources and means of accessing these services.
6. Valid NYS driver's license/dependable vehicle.
7. Demonstrates basic reasoning skills.