A Career With Purpose:
Becoming A Direct Support Professional
Are you looking for more than just a job? Are you someone who leads with kindness, patience, and a desire to make a difference?
Then becoming a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Jawonio might be the career you didn’t know you were waiting for. At Jawonio, we believe in helping people live their most independent and fulfilling lives — and our DSPs are at the heart of that mission.
What Does a DSP Do?
Direct Support Professionals support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across our residential homes and day programs in Rockland County and Yonkers. Each day is a new opportunity to help someone achieve their goals—whether it’s developing life skills, enjoying a community outing, building friendships, or simply feeling supported and seen.It’s work that requires heart, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose—and it’s also some of the most rewarding work you’ll ever do.
🤝 Who Will You Support?
Our DSPs work with adults who have a variety of abilities and needs. Every individual is unique—and every relationship is built on respect, trust, and understanding. You’ll play a key role in helping the people we support grow, thrive, and feel empowered.
❤️ More Than a Job—It’s a Calling
Many of our team members say becoming a DSP changed their lives. Why? Because when you help others reach their potential, you grow too. The bonds you build are real, and the impact you make is lasting. Whether you’re helping someone get ready for their day or cheering them on as they learn a new skill, every moment counts.
🚫 Training? No Problem.
You don’t need a background in human services to become a DSP at Jawonio. If you’re compassionate, dependable, and open to learning, we’ll provide you with comprehensive training, including CPR, First Aid, Driver Training and individualized support strategies. We’ll walk with you every step of the way.
🧠 What Makes a Great DSP?
We often say the best DSPs are:
Patient and calm under pressure
Empathetic and good listeners
Reliable and flexible
Positive, and encouraging
And most importantly—committed to the people they support.
🕒 A Day in the Life
Every day as a DSP looks a little different. You might assist someone with their morning routine, help them get to work or program (if you’re trained to drive), or support them in working toward a new goal. You’ll also be a cheerleader, a teacher, and a friend—helping each person live with dignity and independence.
With training and the right certifications, you may also be responsible for transporting individuals safely between home, work, and community activities.
📈 Growing with Jawonio
We believe in nurturing talent and promoting from within. Many of our DSPs go on to become program coordinators, supervisors, or move into clinical and leadership roles within our organization. If you’re passionate about your work, there’s no limit to where you can go here.
🌈 What Makes Jawonio Special?
For nearly 80 years, Jawonio has stood for inclusion, empowerment, and hope. Our culture is welcoming, diverse, and mission-driven.
You won’t just join a team—you’ll become part of a community that uplifts everyone involved. We’re proud of our values and even prouder of our staff who live them every day.
Ready to Join the Jawonio Team?
We’d love to meet you and share how much good happens here.
Apply Today!
Come to a Job Fair
Check our website for upcoming dates!
Questions?
Reach out to our team — we’re happy to help.
Start a career that changes lives — starting with yours.
Being a Direct Support Professional at Jawonio isn’t just a job — it’s a journey of growth, connection, and heart.
We hope you’ll take that first step with us.
