1. Make a difference in a child’s life. Build relationships and be a role model.
“My favorite activity is to sit on the porch swing and talk. I love connecting with Caleb and being a human he can count on to give him support as he does life.” -Kim, Direct Support Professional
2. Help youth to be successful in life. Working alongside youth with special needs gives you the opportunity to learn more about behavior management; why some children have these behaviors; and how to help the youth work through those emotions to become more successful in everyday life.
“My greatest accomplishments are when one of the kids I serve reaches a goal, becomes more independent or gains confidence,” said Amber. “It’s those ‘Mom Moments’ that make me smile and light up my soul. I know they can do it, so when they show me they can do it on their own, it’s my real reward.”-Amber, Direct Support Professional
3. Gain career experience. If you are interested in pursuing a career that includes working with children, being a Direct Support Professional provides you with hands on experience before you actually enter the field. As a Rainbows’ DSP, you have access to other DSPs and coordinators who have been in the field for a long time and can share their knowledge. We even learn from the kids.
“I feel like working at Rainbows has made me 1000% more confident in my abilities. I have grown tremendously since I first started in 2020, both as a person and a DSP. I will be forever grateful for all the love and support I receive from my coordinators, coworkers, and families at Rainbows.” Cheyenne, Direct Support Professional
4. Have FUN! As a DSP at Camp Woodchuck, Rainbows’ summer day program for school-aged children with special needs, you’ll have FUN dancing with the kids, exploring Exploration Place, splashing in splash pads, and marveling at the animals at Sedgwick County Zoo. You’ll visit McConnell Air Force Base and WSU Robotics. You’ll help Campers discover their talents and show off their fashion flair at Talent and Fashion Shows. You’ll sing along with the youth during choir performances in the community, and you’ll proudly admire their art projects at a special Arts display. Did we mention the Shaving Cream fun?
Being a Rainbows’ DSP is not just a job. It’s a meaningful, educational, life-changing, and fun experience.
