With spring around the corner, now is a great time to embrace new opportunities. If you're considering a career change, Sunshine Communities offers meaningful work that pays well and makes a difference.
Stuck Searching
Have you started your job search by typing “jobs near me” only to find the same roles you’ve seen before?
If you’ve come across a DSP (Direct Support Professional) position and wondered what it is, this blog explains the role, our starting rate of $18.40, and our commitment to employees.
We regularly share stories about DSPs on our social media—why we need them, how they make an impact, and why they’re essential to our mission. DSPs at Sunshine Communities provide compassionate care, medical support, enriching life experiences, and residential and employment services to individuals with developmental disabilities.
What is a DSP?
A DSP is essentially a caregiver for people with developmental disabilities, assisting with daily living activities such as:
- Bathing, dressing, and hygiene.
- Preparing meals and helping with feeding.
- Driving individuals to appointments, social activities, or errands.
- Assisting with brushing teeth, shaving, and other personal care routines.
However, DSPs are more than caregivers—they are makers of fun, creators of laughter, and builders of friendships.
Essential Skills
You don’t need years of training to be a great DSP. What matters most is your personality and willingness to help others. Here are the top qualities of a successful DSP:
- Reliable
- Compassionate/Empathetic
- Great Communicator
- Professional
- Patient
- A Problem Solver
- Cooperative
How to Become a DSP: What Do You Need?
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Reliable transportation with valid car insurance.
- Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
- A willingness to learn and grow on the job.
Resources:
Direct Support Professional Interview Questions (Indeed)
How To Create a Direct Support Professional Resume
Choose Sunshine Communities
Our wages are among the highest in Lucas County, and our leadership is dedicated to supporting our DSP staff, recognizing them as the heartbeat of our mission.
Offerings:
- Quarterly retention bonuses
- $3 shift differential on weekends
- Full-time and part-time options
- An Employee Assistance Program offering free and confidential services for employees and their families, including:
- Mental health support
- Stress management
- Work-life balance
- Financial guidance
- And more
- Free success coach support
- Access to employee food pantry
Jason Abodeely, CEO of Sunshine Communities, advocates for DSPs by securing wage funding in Columbus, engaging officials, and tirelessly supporting the staff at Sunshine. Listen to Jason discuss the power of a strong workforce that knows they are valued and supported. Tune in hear to recent podcast.
Watch story about job recruitment on 13abc here.
Ready to Apply?
Visit our careers page to submit your application.