The Arc Montgomery County is launching an 8-week Direct Support Professional (DSP) Fellowship program for people with disabilities to complete training to become Direct Support Professionals. The program, based in Montgomery County, will provide comprehensive job training, mentorship, and certification courses while paying program participants for their time.
We are currently seeking 8-12 people with disabilities who are interested in learning more about an exciting and rewarding career as a DSP. Learn more and apply below!
What is a Direct Support Professional (DSP)?
A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides support, guidance, and supervision to people with disabilities. Their main role is to help individuals achieve their personal goals, become active members of their communities, and make choices about their lives.
Through the Empowering Abilities Fellowship you will learn the skills to become a DSP through training, job shadowing as a DSP, and mentoring.
Empowering Abilities Program
Program Overview:
- Duration: 8 weeks
- Location: Montgomery County
- Focus: Training people with disabilities to become DSPs
- Components: Accessible curriculum, job coaching, mentoring, and shadowing
- Outcome: Training for entry-level DSP positions (non-accredited)
What You'll Learn:
- How to provide the necessary structure and support to individuals with disabilities
- How to make effective decisions regarding daily activities
- How to apply personal experiences to support others
Program Prerequisites:
- Lived experience as a person with a disability
- Commitment to supporting people with disabilities
This program offers a unique opportunity for individuals with disabilities to use their experiences to help others while receiving comprehensive training and mentorship.
Why Join Our Fellowship?
Unique Insights: Your lived experience with a disability gives you a special understanding that makes you invaluable in supporting others.
Transformative Experience: This fellowship turns your personal experiences into professional expertise, opening doors to a fulfilling career and making a real difference in your community.
Role as a DSP Fellow:
- Help others achieve their goals.
- Support individuals in making independent choices.
- Encourage community involvement.
- Provide valuable guidance in an inclusive environment.
Program Highlights:
- Universal Design: Training and tasks are adapted to meet your needs.
- Inclusive Workspace: A welcoming environment where everyone belongs.
- Professional Growth: Clear path to long-term career success.
- Community Impact: Opportunity to make a real difference.
This program values your lived experience as a powerful asset and is designed to be accessible and empowering. Join us to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career!
DSP Fellowship Program
What: An 8-week training program for people with disabilities to become Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).
Where: The ARC Montgomery County
What You'll Get:
- Comprehensive job training.
- Mentorship.
- Certification courses.
- Payment for your time.
Who We're Looking For: 8-12 people with disabilities interested in a rewarding career as a DSP.
Learn More and Apply Below!
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!
You are eligible, if you...
- Are 18 years or older
- Live in Montgomery County, Maryland
- Have a High School Diploma, GED, or High School Certificate
- Have lived experience as a person with a disability
- Are COVID-19 vaccinated
- Eligible to work in the US
- Successfully pass a criminal background check
How to Apply
1. Online Application:
- Access the application here.
- Complete and submit the application on the website.
- You can upload additional materials and request any accommodation(s).
- Instructions for using the form, saving changes, and submitting are included in the application.
- You can save your work and return to it later.
- Press the "Submit" button on the last page to complete your application.
- You will receive a confirmation email once your form has been received
- No changes can be made after submission.
- Submit by the application deadline.
2. Email Application:
- Print and complete the PDF version of the application here.
- Email the completed application and necessary documents to Nicole.Lindsay@TheArcMoCo.org.
- You will receive a confirmation email once submitted.
- No changes can be made after submission.
- Submit by the application deadline.
