Direct support professionals assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They help with everyday tasks such as housekeeping, meal preparation, attending appointments and running errands. Depending on the patient’s condition, our members may also administer medications, develop a behavioral management plan and maintain medical records.
- Teach patients life skills
- Maintain a safe living environment that adheres to state codes and regulations
- Offer counseling and crisis intervention
- Assist individuals with money management, housekeeping, personal hygiene and other routine needs
- Provide transportation to social outings, doctor’s appoints and other activities
- Maintain regular paperwork including fiscal reports, behavioral assessments, medication logs, casework notes and daily activity logs
UFCW Local 888 started to organize Direct Support Professionals nearly 15 years ago when Max Bruny, then Director of Organizing when he realized there was a need for representation in the industry. Since then, Local 888 has successfully organized several Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) agencies. Local 888 currently represents over 1200 DSP members.