Caregiver

Mentor Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, is committed to providing community-based services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our philosophy is grounded in the belief that every person has the right to live well and achieve fulfillment in life. With over 50 years of experience in the field, Sevita has become a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care, supporting around 50,000 individuals across the United States. Our team of 40,000 dedicated professionals continually innovate and enhance care, striving to empower those we serve to live more independent and enriched lives. We uphold strong values that promote dignity, respect, and personalized support for individuals, ensuring their needs and preferences guide our services.

This particular role is for a Part-Time Direct Support Professional located in Columbia, SC, specifically covering the 2nd shift on a schedule of every other Monday and Friday, plus every other weekend. The position offers compensation at a rate of $15.30 per hour. The role is a non-exempt, hourly position, providing direct support typically within a single program or unit. Usually, the professional supports between 4 to 6 individuals in residential settings or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs.

As a Direct Support Professional, you will be the key link that enables individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve a higher quality of life. Your role will encompass a variety of essential functions, including delivering personalized support aligned with each individual's service or program plans. These include socialization assistance, health maintenance, medication administration, skill and behavioral development, and more. You will help with daily living activities such as personal care, housekeeping, recreational activities, transportation, community integration, shopping, and citizenship. This role requires a compassionate and attentive approach to foster a safe, supportive, and empowering environment. Beyond providing direct care, you will also maintain accurate records of progress and activities, manage individuals' budgets appropriately according to their preferences, and maintain professional relationships with individuals, their families, guardians, and case managers.

Safety and well-being are paramount in this position. You will be responsible for promptly reporting any instances of alleged abuse or neglect and adhering to confidentiality requirements and individual rights. Additionally, you may accompany individuals to medical appointments, assist with medication administration, monitor health concerns, and respond to emergencies when necessary. The job also involves transportation duties, requiring an active driver's license and adherence to all safety regulations.

This role includes employment responsibilities such as attending training sessions, participating in staff meetings, punctuality, and flexible scheduling that may occasionally require covering additional shifts. You will be part of a collaborative team where respect, open communication, and teamwork are highly valued. Maintaining a safe workplace through compliance with safety policies and reporting hazards is expected.

Working at Mentor Community Services means joining a mission-driven team dedicated to enriching lives and promoting independence for individuals with disabilities. The work environment is dynamic and community-focused, often engaging with individuals in their homes and local settings. Physical demands include exerting up to 100 pounds occasionally, indicative of the hands-on support required. Candidates must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, preferably with six months of experience in human services. A valid driver's license and the ability to meet all insurance requirements for driving are mandatory.

As an equal opportunity employer, Sevita and Mentor Community Services embrace diversity and inclusiveness. We do not discriminate based on any protected characteristic, reinforcing our commitment to fair and equitable employment practices. By joining us, you contribute to a legacy of excellence and compassion in community health services, shaping a career well-lived while making a tangible difference in the lives of others.