Compassionate Direct Support Professional with expertise in individualized care and effective communication. Proven ability to implement care plans and foster independence in clients while promoting positive behavior and social engagement.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Direct Support Professional
Arc of Ventura County
Simi Valley, CA
01.2024 - Current
Assisted individuals with daily living activities and personal care.
Provided companionship and emotional support to clients in various settings.
Implemented individualized care plans to meet client needs and preferences.
Coordinated recreational activities, fostering social interaction and engagement among clients.
Monitored individuals' behaviors, documented observations, reported any changes or concerns to supervisor.
Collaborated with healthcare professionals to ensure quality care delivery.
Trained new staff on best practices for client support and safety protocols.
Provided direct care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, fostering activities of daily living.
Facilitated skill development for individuals through hands-on activities, promoting independence and confidence.
Cultivated strong rapport with clients, enhancing quality and continuity of care.
Used approved crisis intervention techniques in emergency situations.
Special Education Instructional Aide
Simi Valley Unified School Dist
Simi Valley, CA
02.2005 - 10.2021
Assisted teachers in implementing individualized education plans for students.
Supported classroom management by promoting positive behavior among students.
Facilitated communication among students, teachers, and parents to enhance understanding of student progress.
Provided one-on-one assistance to students with diverse learning needs.
Organized and maintained classroom resources and instructional materials to support effective learning environments.
Engaged students in educational activities to enhance learning experiences.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure student support services are effective.
Monitored student progress and reported observations to instructional staff to inform instructional strategies.
Served as classroom aide to teachers and worked one-on-one with special needs students.
Implemented discipline strategies and positive reinforcement to support students in developing good behavioral habits.
Provided special attention to individuals needing extra academic or behavioral guidance during classes.
Supported teachers in organizing classroom activities and managing student tasks.
Worked with both groups and individuals to provide instruction in mathematics, reading, science, and history.
Incorporated technology into instruction when appropriate.
Transported non-ambulatory students throughout campus facilities.
Participated in supervision of students during lunch, physical education, and after-school extracurricular activities to maintain peaceful and productive environment.
Managed distracting or inappropriate classroom behavior.
Monitored students' use of personal medical equipment to encourage proper use and prevent injury.
Met with parents to discuss educational outcomes and behaviors while observing and promoting sensitivity to child's condition and needs.
Coached students on speech patterns using augmentative/alternative communication methods.
Collaborated with school staff members to ensure appropriate accommodations for students with disabilities.
Observed student activities to identify areas needing improvement or reinforcement.
Recreational Aide
Simi Valley Parks & Recreation
Simi Valley, CA
12.2014 - 10.2016
Assisted in planning and coordinating recreational activities for community engagement.
Supervised participants during events to ensure safety and enjoyment.
Maintained cleanliness and organization of facilities and equipment used in programs.
Collaborated with team members to develop engaging programming for various age groups.
Provided support during special events, facilitating smooth operations and participant interaction.
Promoted programs through targeted social media campaigns and community outreach initiatives, increasing participant engagement.
Responded quickly to emergency situations according to established protocols.
Collaborated with other staff members to develop new ideas for recreational programming.
Developed relationships with community organizations to expand access to resources.
Organized group outings, including camping trips and nature hikes, enhancing community connection with outdoor activities.
Conducted assessments of individual needs and developed appropriate plans accordingly.
Facilitated workshops on nutrition, physical fitness, and stress reduction, empowering participants with valuable knowledge and skills.
Organized special events such as field trips, holiday parties, and fundraisers.
Instructed participants on the correct use of recreational equipment.
Set up facility areas with supplies, tables and chairs for planned activities.
Designed and implemented fitness programs tailored to participant needs and abilities.
Trained and supervised volunteers and junior staff members in recreational activity facilitation.
Developed and distributed promotional materials for recreational programs and events.
Respite Care Provider
Channel Islands Social Services
Camarillo, California
10.2011 - 10.2016
Supported individuals with disabilities in daily activities, fostering independence and enhancing quality of life.
Coordinated recreational activities to promote social skills and improve client engagement.
Assisted with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, dressing, eating, and toileting.
Built strong relationships with clients and families, ensuring effective communication and collaboration in care plans.
Provided temporary relief and support to families of individuals with disabilities.
Supported clients in participating in leisure activities like going on walks or attending community events.
Coordinated communication between family members regarding schedule changes or needs of the client.
Provided transportation for medical appointments.
Participated in enjoyable activities with clients to provide mental stimulation.
Assessed client physical, mental and emotional conditions as well as vital signs.
Assisted ill, disabled and elderly clients by providing companionship, comfort and medicine.
Built strong and trusting rapport with clients and loved ones.
Fabric Cutter
JOANN Fabrics and Crafts
Simi Valley, CA
10.2003 - 10.2004
Measured and cut fabric for garments according to patterns and specifications.
Trained new staff on cutting techniques and safety protocols, ensuring adherence to industry standards.
Sorted fabrics into bundles by size, color, and type for efficient access.
Maintained clean and safe work environment, upholding company standards and promoting workplace safety.
Maintained records of all materials used in the cutting process.
Assisted customers in selecting fabrics tailored to project needs and preferences, enhancing their overall experience.
Education
Certified - Phlebotomy
Simi Valley Adult Education
Simi Valley, CA
03.2008
Some College (No Degree) - Child Development
Moorpark College
Moorpark, CA
NA - Cosmetology
Simi Valley Adult School
Simi Valley, CA
Trained - Special Education
Nonviolent Crisis Intervention
Simi Valley, CA
Languages
American Sign Language
Limited
Certification
Phlebotomy Technician Certified
Affiliations
Involved in the music industry, arts and animal rights advocacy and am aware of social injustices in our society. I enjoy outdoor activities, nature, cooking and any opportunity to educate others.