Maria Barnes
New Alexandria,PA
Summary
My biggest goal during my life is to help and be of service to others, namely those who fall within minority and underserved groups and communities. I enjoy providing opportunities that create a sense of belonging and independence, moments that contribute to a meaningful life for others. My greatest passion is providing language access for the deaf community.
Overview
2
2
Languages
5
5
years of post-secondary education
1
1
year of professional experience
Work History
Direct Support Provider
Stellar Support Services
Dravosburg, Pennsylvania
03.2026 - Current
- Assisted clients with daily living activities and personal care needs.
- Communicated effectively with clients using sign language and other methods.
- Engaged in active listening to understand clients' needs and concerns. to understand consumers' needs and concerns.
- Delivered emotional support and encouragement to foster client well-being and resilience.
- Facilitated recreational and social activities to promote client engagement and social skills.
- Encouraged independence by teaching life skills such as budgeting, grocery shopping.
- Documented client progress and reported changes to the care team.
- Applied positive reinforcement strategies to effectively manage challenging behaviors and promote client progress.
- Adhered to guidelines set forth by local and state regulations regarding direct support services.
Direct Support Provider
Hearing and Deaf Services Center
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
11.2025 - 02.2026
- Assisted clients with daily living activities and personal care needs.
- Communicated effectively with clients using sign language and other methods.
- Supported clients by participating in recreational and social activities.
- Documented client progress and reported changes to the care team.
- Maintained a safe and clean environment for clients at all times.
- Provided emotional support and encouragement to enhance client well-being.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Special Education: Deaf And Hard of Hearing
Converse University
Spartanburg, SC 08.2019 - 05.2022
Business Administration - Business Administration
Piedmont Technical College
Greenwood, SC 08.2017 - 08.2019
Greenwood High School
Greenwood, SCSkills
- Life skills training
- Progress documentation
- Resource management
- Client advocacy
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
A1
American Sign Language
Full Professional
A1
Timeline
Direct Support Provider
Stellar Support Services
03.2026 - Current
Direct Support Provider
Hearing and Deaf Services Center
11.2025 - 02.2026
Bachelor of Arts - Special Education: Deaf And Hard of Hearing
Converse University
08.2019 - 05.2022
Business Administration - Business Administration
Piedmont Technical College
08.2017 - 08.2019
Greenwood High School