Caring for others, and learning about developmental disabilities and how they are just like everyone else. It was such a touching experience
What I wish was different
The house I worked at has been short-staffed so it was hard to say no to shifts when I was in school. Wish I could have stayed longer
Advice
Think to yourself before judging others, you don't know where they have been, what they have gone through, or who they are. Everyone is different and the individuals I took care of are the strongest and most kind individuals I know.
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Direct care professional
August 2023 • Roseville, MN
What I liked
I love working here. I have gained amazing experience.
What I wish was different
Advice
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Direct Care Professional
May 2023 • Maple Grove, MN
What I liked
I have been a DCP at ACR homes for the past 10 months and have had a wonderful experience! The schedule is very flexible and allows me a healthy balance between work and classes/extracurriculars. It is very rewarding to establish rapport with the residents and know you are making a difference in the lives of others every time you go to work. I participated in the internship program at ACR as well, where I developed a project relating to my major and worked 1:1 to better the lives of one of our residents (during my direct care shifts). The internship coordinator helped me every step of the way and was always available to answer questions. I felt that he was genuinely interested and invested in my project, which helped my internship be successful. I created the project from scratch, gathered and analyzed my own data, wrote a research paper, and then presented it all to the leadership team. If you are looking for an experience to provide a foundation of what it is like to carry out a research idea in your field of interest, this is a great program!
What I wish was different
The only thing I wish to be different is the staffing. Occasionally, the house can be short-staffed or experience high employee turnover rates.
Advice
Even if it is your first time working in direct care, don't worry! I began this job with no prior experience besides working in the food industry/doing on-campus jobs. It is definitely a learning curve, but ACR provides many training resources and lots of guidance before working a shift 'on your own.' There is always at least one other co-worker with you on shift, and the house RS is great with addressing concerns and making sure you feel comfortable and confident in your role at ACR :)
