Challenge Unlimited Inc

Alton, IL

The nonprofit corporation was originally founded as Specialized Services, Inc., (now Challenge Unlimited) formed by concerned parents of children with disabilities. The parents wanted their adult children to participate in some form of productive activity and hopefully gain vocational experiences that would lead to employment. 

Specialized Services, Inc., opened its doors to provide services to six individuals. It was initially funded by contributions from parents, concerned citizens, and local businesses. With a growing need, Specialized Services secured a grant from the Department of Mental Health and grew rapidly to 50 participants. A new building was purchased to provide additional services to individuals with disabilities.

The agency began providing production services as a subcontracted business solution for local companies. Individuals with a disability were able to work according to each person’s abilities under a special minimum wage certificate.

Tom Moehn is hired as President and CEO with a vision for community integration. 

Specialized Services, Inc., with a renewed vision to develop human potential through work related opportunities grows to become a social enterprise with the expansion of its production services and the launch of the custodial services line of business employing individuals with disabilities. 

Residential Services of Madison County, an Affiliate Organization, was formed with a single group home. The State of Illinois requested that the agency take over a large residential facility in Troy, IL. That facility was downsized and ICF-DD and CILA homes were built to provide 12 homes for approximately 100 residents. This company is now known as Residential Options, Inc.

Through a partnership with NISH, the company expanded its social business model to provide Facility Management Services to the Federal Government. The first contract was at Scott Air Force Base. 

Specialized Services rebrands and becomes Challenge Unlimited, Inc.

Alpha Industries was formed as an affiliate organization of Challenge Unlimited. The nonprofit organization was created to broaden production service contracts while creating work related opportunities for individuals with economic, cognitive, social and educational disadvantages. 

President & CEO, Tom Moehn, retires after 46 years of service impacting thousands of lives.

Challenge Unlimited hires Charlotte Hammond as President and CEO to further expand and increase the footprint for inclusion and integration in the community for people with a disability.

Challenge Unlimited receives 2013 St. Louis Regional Chamber Arcus Award for Achievement in Economic Inclusion.

Challenge Unlimited expands its footprint to Ohio, South Carolina, Indiana, and Texas.

Job Specifications

Location

Godfrey, IL

Salary

19.75 - 20.25 HOUR

Published

a month ago

Type

Full Time

Career Level

Entry Level

Last Jobs You Viewed

Cook Direct Support Professional


Description:

We’re seeking someone who is wanting to make make a meaningful difference every day by empowering individuals with disabilities to live independently, achieve their goals, and thrive in their communities. as a Cook Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Challenge Unlimited, Inc/Residential Options in Godfrey, IL. 

No experience! No Problem! We provide all the PAID training needed to provide the best care.

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities need people in their lives who provide them with assistance and instruction on completing tasks most people take for granted. The people who provide this help and training are called Direct Support Professionals, or DSPs. At Residential Options, our DSPs work in residential settings helping our clients learn new skills, reach life goals, and turn houses into homes. DSP's report to the Director of Residential Options or Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP). 

Position Summary:

  • Shift: Full-Time.
  • Hours:  6am-2pm and 2pm-10pm (both shifts are included in the schedule) 
  • Weekends, mandated overtime and some holidays are included in schedule. 
  • Salary: start $19.75 after food sanitation license $20.25 per hour + benefits 
  • Location:  Godfrey, IL

Responsibilities:

  • Assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal hygiene, bathing, dressing, toileting, housekeeping, and laundry.
  • Plan, prepare, and serve nutritious meals according to physician-ordered diets and dietary guidelines.
  • Maintain high standards of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen cleanliness.
  • Monitor and document refrigerator and freezer temperatures.
  • Prepare grocery lists, order food and kitchen supplies, and purchase needed items.
  • Assist residents in meal planning and food preparation to build independent living skills.
  • Train coworkers on meal preparation procedures during the Cook's absence.
  • Support residents with medication administration and monitor for health and safety concerns.
  • Perform tasks necessary to maintain a safe living and working environment (i.e. cleaning, shoveling walks, etc.)
  • Provide transportation to appointments, shopping trips, recreational activities, and community events.
  • Foster a safe, welcoming, and home-like environment for residents.
  • Provide physical therapy and emotional support. 
  • Encourage and support residents in achieving personal goals and increasing independence.
  • Assist with community integration, social engagement, travel training, and life skills development.
  • Implement individual support plans and treatment goals to promote growth and self-sufficiency.
  • Accurately document services provided, resident progress, behaviors, incidents, and health-related information.
  • Complete required reports and maintain resident records in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.
  • Follow all medication administration procedures, safety protocols, and documentation standards.
  • Communicate resident needs, concerns, and progress with supervisors and team members.
  • Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and resident planning meetings as assigned.
  • Follow company policies, OSHA standards, and all applicable health and safety regulations.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required 
  • Must pass a criminal background check
  • Must pass a child abuse & neglect background check
  • Must pass a motor vehicle background check
  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver’s license
  • Must pass state required CASAS literacy assessment prior to employment.
  • CPR, 1st Aid, Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI), Med Passing and DSP training provided by the company must be successfully completed within the first 4 months and annually thereafter to maintain the position. Receive food and sanitation certification. 
  • proficient with computer and typing skills. 
Benefits: 
  • Life Insurance 
  • Medical with Rx & Vision
  • Dental 
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability 
  • Holiday Pay 
  • Vacation 
  • Unpaid Personal Days 
  • Sick Days 
  • Funeral Leave 
  • 401K 

EOE Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.