Some people work a job. Others build a life around it.
Rodney has been part of the Counseling Service of Addison County’s Developmental Services team for more than 20 years. He didn’t start out planning a career in human services. But the work—supporting adults with developmental disabilities to live full, active, and independent lives—kept calling him back.
“I’ve always clicked with people with developmental disabilities,” he says. “This work has always felt like the right fit.”
Rodney’s career has evolved with time. He started in 2003 as a community integration specialist, helping people connect with their communities and discover interests and hobbies. Later, he became a home provider for 15 years, welcoming someone into his home who wanted to build independence. He supported that person in learning how to manage money, cook healthy meals, wash clothes, and build better sleep and exercise routines.
“It felt good to help someone grow and be part of that process,” Rodney says. “I believe healthy food is the foundation of overall well-being, and it was powerful to apply my own passions—like nutrition and physical activity—to help someone else thrive.”
Now back in a Direct Support Professional (DSP) role, Rodney works about 30 hours a week. That schedule gives him the flexibility to balance work and family, especially as a parent of school-aged kids. “It’s been a really good work-life balance for me,” he says. “You can get benefits at 30 hours a week, and that’s a huge help.”
What does a day in Rodney’s life look like?
He picks someone up, they make a connection, and then they head out into the world—maybe a hike, maybe disc golf, maybe something totally new.
“I love supporting people as they discover new things,” he says. “Sometimes it’s their first time hiking or playing disc golf. I get to share that moment with them—and that’s really cool.”
Rodney sees his role as more than just a job. It’s about building trust, noticing small details, and adapting to meet people where they are. “You have to legitimately care about people,” he says. “Clients need to be able to trust you. That’s when growth happens—when people feel safe enough to try something new.”
He’s also learned that great DSPs are good at reading the room. “You need to pay attention to how someone communicates—verbal and nonverbal—and adjust your own approach,” he says. “If someone’s quiet, you slow down and give them space. If they’re energetic, you match that energy. It’s all about connection.”
Why CSAC?
Rodney points to the support he gets from his coworkers and supervisors, and to the integrity of the program. “This work is about people helping people. It’s a community supporting community,” he says. “And at CSAC, you feel that. There’s real dedication here.”
He also appreciates how the role allows him to bring his whole self to work. “I love food, I love the outdoors, and I love helping people live better lives. I get to do all of that in this job.”
Ready to Try Something That Grows with You?
If you’re looking for a role that offers flexibility, purpose, and connection, becoming a Direct Support Professional with CSAC might be the right fit. Whether you’ve worked in education, caregiving, the trades, business—or something completely different—what matters most is your willingness to show up, build trust, and support someone to live their best life.
This is work that grows with you, changes with you, and gives back every step of the way.
Curious? We’d love to talk. To learn more or explore opportunities, visit www.csac-vt.org or call 802-388-4021.
