Human Services Direct Support Specialist

Melissa Richmond

Oakland, CA ***** +1-510-***-**** ******************@*****.***

Professional Summary

Dedicated Human Services Professional with more than eight years of experience supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and other barriers to independence and stability. Experienced in independent living skills instruction, supported living services, housing support, crisis intervention, service planning, documentation compliance, and community resource coordination.

Recognized for exceptional reliability, strong professional relationships, and a client-centered approach that balances compassion with accountability. Skilled in helping individuals build confidence, independence, and long-term stability through personalized support, goal implementation, advocacy, and life skills education. Known for stepping into leadership roles when needed, mentoring staff, maintaining high standards of documentation, and ensuring continuity of services during staffing shortages and program transitions Work Experience

Direct support professional

Positive Alliance Support Services Livermore, CA January 2025 to Present

Provide individualized support services to adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in home and community- based environments.

• Assist clients in developing routines, life skills, communication skills, emotional regulation skills, and increased independence.

• Promote client dignity, choice, self-determination, and active participation in community life.

• Maintain accurate documentation including progress notes, incident reports, and service records.

• Build positive, professional relationships that encourage personal growth and long-term success. Direct support professional

Visionary Independence program Livermore, CA

January 2025 to Present

• Provide individualized Independent Living Skills (ILS) and Supported Living Services (SLS) to adults with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, behavioral challenges, and mental health needs.

• Deliver approximately 48–60 hours of direct support services weekly while maintaining a strong focus on person- centered care and individualized goal achievement.

• Teach budgeting, meal planning, grocery shopping, cooking, household management, organization, cleaning routines, personal hygiene, and Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).

• Support clients in building confidence, self-advocacy skills, decision-making abilities, and increased independence in home and community settings.

• Monitor client progress toward established goals and participate in annual review processes by providing detailed observations, recommendations, and progress updates.

• Complete detailed service documentation including progress reports, monthly summaries, ISP documentation, and daily service notes.

• Collaborate with Regional Center staff, family members, support teams, and community providers to ensure coordinated and effective services.

Shelter monitor

Saint vincent de paul Oakland, CA

February 2024 to January 2025

Oversaw operations serving approximately 65 residents nightly and up to 125 individuals during daytime hours.

• Conducted intakes, assessments, referrals, orientations, and service coordination for individuals experiencing homelessness.

• Responded to overdoses, behavioral crises, conflicts, and emergency situations utilizing crisis intervention and de- escalation techniques.

• Trained newly hired employees and frequently served as acting lead staff during supervisor absences and staffing shortages.

• Facilitated life-skills workshops focused on communication, budgeting, employment readiness, personal responsibility, and goal development.

• Maintained accurate client records, incident reports, and service documentation while ensuring compliance with program requirements.

• Developed strong professional relationships with residents while maintaining accountability and program expectations.

• Achieved perfect attendance throughout employment. Homeless advocate

Insight housing Berkeley, CA

August 2022 to August 2024

Assisted clients transitioning fromhomelessness into stable housing and community living.

• Developed individualized service plans and coordinated supportive services designed to address barriers to housing stability and self-sufficiency.

• Conducted daily wellness checks, ongoing assessments, and progress monitoring.

• Facilitated workshops focused on daily living skills, emotional regulation, social skills, community engagement, and long-term goal planning.

• Assisted clients in obtaining identification documents, benefits, healthcare services, housing resources, and community supports.

• Served as liaison between residents, landlords, service providers, and community agencies.

• Maintained detailed case documentation, service plans, and progress records.

• Achieved perfect attendance throughout employment Outreach specialist

Urban Street Angels Hayward, CA

January 2017 to July 2023

Conducted outreach throughout Bay Area serving individuals experiencing homelessness and housing instability.

• Distributed food, hygiene supplies, clothing, and emergency resources to underserved populations.

• Connected individuals with healthcare services, shelter programs, public benefits, identification services, and community resources.

• Assisted with volunteer training and onboarding activities.

• Built trusting professional relationships through consistent, respectful, and client-centered engagement. Education

Human services (Associate of atrs,)

Kaplan university Stockton, CA

September 2013 to June 2016

Skills

Caregiving Case planning ISP Independent living skills instruction Motivational Interviewing Assisting with ADLs Trauma informed care Human services Goal devolopment Certifications and Licenses

Motivational Interviewing

June 2024 to Present

Completed specialized training in Motivational Interviewing, an evidence-based communication approach designed to strengthen an individual's motivation and commitment to positive change Life coaching

September 2022 to Present

Trained in person-centered coaching techniques that support individuals in developing independent living skills, self- sufficiency, and personal gro

First Aid Certification

CPR Certification

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