Program Assistant (or DSW or PSW)

The Program Assistant works in collaboration with his/her program team to ensure and to nurture the well-being, growth, and development of Core Members (individuals with developmental disabilities) in the program.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with Team members to support the physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of the Core Members who come to the program.
• Communicate effectively with team to pass on pertinent information.
• Respond to each person’s individual needs by respectfully supporting them with daily living skills, personal hygiene, and where needed, administering medication. 
• Encourage each person to achieve the highest level of independence in personal care and relationships. 
• Maintain up-to-date training requirements. 
• Understand and adhere to all L’Arche London community standards, policies, and procedures.
• Follow Day program schedule and priorities outlined by the Day Program Leader. 
• Provide personal care as needed.
• Able to push, pull and lift up to 44 lbs as needed, and walk up to 60 minutes or 3 km per day, as required.
• Cleaning and housekeeping, as required.
• Perform other related activities, as necessary or as assigned. 

Qualities of a Successful Applicant:

• High school diploma or equivalent; At least 18 years of age.

• DSW or equivalent preferred.
• Fluent in spoken and written English and able to effectively articulate thoughts and ideas in a team setting.
• Clear police check including vulnerable sector screening.
• Valid CPR & First Aid certification.
• Knowledgeable about L’Arche history, values and vision.
• Ability to be flexible and manage the stress of multi-faceted responsibilities and management.
• Ability to remain calm, focused, and clear in times of crisis.
• Ability to take direction and follow-through on commitments in timely fashion.
• Open to learn and grow; able to give and receive feedback.
• Ability to directly address tensions in relationships.
• Effective communication skills.
• Strong team spirit, able to work cooperatively. 
• Stamina and energy to meet the physical demands of the role.
• Valid G license and at least 6 years’ driving experience, an asset.