About the role#
The Intern Direct Support Professional (I-DSP) provides direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will work within community-based and day service settings to promote independence, personal growth, and community inclusion. This role reports to the Lead Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional.
What you'll do#
- Provide direct support to individuals following their Person-Centered Plans.
- Assist individuals with activities of daily living while ensuring their privacy and dignity.
- Encourage participation in recreational, educational, and community-based activities.
- Support the development of social, behavioral, and functional skills.
- Complete required documentation and reporting in compliance with agency policies and regulations.
- Transport individuals for program and community activities.
- Communicate changes in an individual's health or well-being to your supervisor.
What you'll need#
- A high school diploma or GED.
- You must be at least 18 years of age.
- Successful completion of background checks and DCFS clearance.
- A passing score on the TABE test.
- A valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.
- One year of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred.
- Ability to lift or move up to 25 pounds.
Location & details#
- Location: Chicago, Illinois.
- This is an on-site, full-time, paid internship.
- Hiring is on a rolling basis.
About Ada S. McKinley Community Services, Inc
Ada S. McKinley Community Services is a non-profit organization based in Chicago. Founded in 1919, the agency provides services in child development, employment support, and behavioral health. It operates over 70 locations across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The organization employs between 501 and 1,000 people and supports more than 7,000 individuals annually.
How to get in at Ada S. McKinley Community Services, Inc
Securing an internship at Ada S. McKinley Community Services requires a proactive approach to their application cycle. Because many roles fill quickly, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere. Applying among the first ensures your materials are seen before the pile grows, which is a significant advantage in a competitive field. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind the company roles. Reaching out directly to ask about the position or a referral often improves your response rates compared to submitting an application into a queue.


