Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caring, positive role models who work one-on-one or in small groups with children and adults. They are the heart of The Jewish Board, serving as important caregivers, helping our clients build their independent living skills, and ensuring that they stay safe and healthy.
Being a DSP is an opportunity to help forge a path to greatness for residents in our care.
—Richard, Direct Support Professional for over 30 years
Where do Direct Support Professionals Work?
Throughout our agency, hundreds of direct support professionals work in all different types of programs – from children’s residences and adult housing, to domestic violence shelters, to homes for the intellectually and developmentally disabled – helping New Yorkers of all ages, races, faiths, abilities, and identities thrive. Many of our DSPs feel like family members to the people they work with.
I love working with people with special needs and enjoy watching them grow daily. I make sure they are happy, and feel and look their best, because they are loved and family.
—Caroline, former bus matron for special needs individuals
Who Makes A Good Direct Support Professional?
If you are patient and understanding when building relationships with others, enjoy creating and participating in recreational activities, and take pride in being a role model, then a career as a direct support professional at The Jewish Board could be a good choice for you.
Our direct support professionals come from all different career and educational backgrounds, including camp counselors, nannies, parks department employees, Police Athletic League (PAL) members, customer service representatives, retail workers, teacher’s aides, paraprofessionals, home health aides, office assistants, cashiers, shelter workers, daycare workers, EMT technicians, and after school program staff.
Our fingerprints don’t fade from the lives we touch.
–Latisha, Direct Support Professional at Geller House
Qualifying for a Life-Changing Career
Click here to find Direct Support Professional positions throughout New York City. Generally, we look for the following qualifications in our direct support professionals:
- High school diploma or GED
- A driver’s license
- The ability to empathize with, relate to and effectively work with participants of behavioral health service