JOB DETAILS

Direct Care Worker (Relief/Per Diem)

CompanyMental Health Association - Western MA
LocationChicopee
Work ModeOn Site
PostedMarch 13, 2026
About The Company
MHA is committed to building an agency of excellence for its clients, staff and community. We will continue to strive to be the premier provider of residential and support services, noted for innovation, commitment and dedication. We conceptualize a community where all individuals have the skills and opportunities to achieve their aspirations. Our aim is to create an atmosphere where dignity, respect and equality are commonplace, where all individuals can reach their maximum potential. Through flexibility, continuous self-examination and knowledge of current and effective practices, MHA will remain on the cutting edge of service delivery. For those areas of an individual’s life that can be improved, MHA will seek to do so. For those areas in which answers are yet to come, MHA will bring hope. Respect, Integrity, Compassion!
About the Role
About MHA

MHA – Mental Health Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people live their best life. We provide a wide range of services across Western Massachusetts, including outpatient therapy, substance use recovery, supports for individuals with developmental disabilities or brain injuries, and residential and housing programs. MHA serves individuals impacted by mental illness, substance use, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and homelessness. Our mission is rooted in inclusion, dignity, and empowering people to lead fulfilling, independent lives.

About the Division of Recovery Services (DRS)

MHA’s Division of Recovery Services (DRS) supports individuals of all ages who are navigating mental health and substance use challenges. Our youth residential programs serve adolescents involved with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) who are working through behavioral health needs in a safe, structured environment.

DRS also provides residential and outreach support for adults in recovery or currently living with addiction, many of whom may also experience co-occurring mental health concerns. Through compassionate, trauma-informed care, we help individuals build coping skills, restore stability, and work toward long-term recovery and wellness.

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Position Summary

Direct Care Workers will provide a supportive environment in a community residential setting, empowering the participants who have been impacted by homelessness, psychiatric diagnosis, trauma, and/or addiction in achieving their vision of recovery and rehabilitation, focusing on strength and resiliency through person-centered planning. They will perform responsibilities professionally, in accordance with MHA’s Core Values (Respect, Integrity, and Compassion), organizational mission, policies, practices, program funding and applicable regulatory agency guidelines. 

Pay Rate: $19 an hour

Open Shift: Relief/Per diem

Key Responsibilities
  • Support participants with daily routines (cooking, cleaning, hygiene, etc.)
  • Teach life skills and promote independence
  • Provide transportation to appointments or activities
  • Encourage self-advocacy and connect participants to community resources
  • Facilitate group activities and house meetings
  • Respond to health or behavioral concerns using supportive strategies
  • Maintain accurate documentation and uphold safety protocols

 

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Human services experience is preferred
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Reliable transportation to utilize during work hours
  • Auto insurance with your name listed as an insured driver on the policy
  • Strong communication skills and a team-first mindset
  • Patience, compassion, and the ability to adapt to participant needs
  • Ability to pass background checks and required certifications (MAP, CPR, First Aid)
Key Skills
Communication SkillsTeam-First MindsetPatienceCompassionAdaptabilityLife Skills TeachingSelf-Advocacy EncouragementDocumentation MaintenanceSafety Protocols Upholding
Categories
HealthcareSocial Services
Job Information
📋Core Responsibilities
Direct Care Workers will provide a supportive environment in a community residential setting, empowering participants impacted by various challenges. They will perform responsibilities in accordance with MHA’s Core Values and organizational mission.
📋Job Type
other
📊Experience Level
0-2
💼Company Size
210
📊Visa Sponsorship
No
💼Language
English
🏢Working Hours
40 hours
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