Daniel’s Story

At 24, Daniel has overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Born with developmental disabilities, behavioral health issues, and addicted to drugs, Daniel entered foster care as an infant. He was adopted as a toddler by a loving mother who tragically passed away just a few years later. Daniel’s aunt cared for him until his needs eventually became too difficult for her to manage on her own. That’s when he was introduced to SCO.

When he was 15, Daniel came to SCO’s Extraordinary Needs group home, where specially-trained staff provide care, guidance, and a home-like experience for adolescents with developmental disabilities. At first, Daniel was reserved and had trouble communicating. But as time went on, Daniel gained confidence and found his voice – literally – while attending singing and performance workshops. Daniel

Since then, his progress has been nothing short of remarkable. Daniel is now able to talk and has become quite the social butterfly. He loves to bowl, watch Jeopardy, and engage in community activities. A budding diplomat (and Mets fan), he even attended a Yankees game with his housemates, although he refused to cheer.

Daniel is open and honest and has become a model resident. He’s a meticulous dresser who always puts his best foot forward. “That’s how we do it at SCO,” he says. Often referred to as the mayor of the house, Daniel keeps track of everything and everyone, advocating for himself and his peers.

As Daniel transitions to adulthood, SCO remains by his side with the supports he needs for a bright future. Last year, Daniel moved into a new SCO Individual Residential Alternative (IRA), a residence designed specifically for adults with challenges like his. Here Daniel continues to receive services, supports, and encouragement to live a full and independent life. New routines, new friends, and new adventures lay in store for Daniel, who is navigating his new surroundings like a pro.

Direct Care Worker Job Openings

Begin a Career at SCO Family of Services

SCO Family of Services helps New Yorkers build a strong foundation for the future. We get young children off to a good start, launch youth into adulthood, stabilize and strengthen families and unlock potential for children and adults with special needs. SCO has provided vital human services throughout New York City and Long Island for 125 years. Become part of our SCO family today!

Why SCO?

SCO’s dedicated professionals help improve the health and well-being of over 50,000 New Yorkers each year. We apply the same principle to ensuring our staff is well cared for through a robust benefits package, professional development opportunities, health and wellness initiatives, tuition reimbursement and more. Our benefits include:

Flexible Work Schedule
Paid Holidays Off
Vacation & Sick Time
403B Retirement Plan
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance & more!

Direct Care Worker

Help clients reach their full potential! The Direct Care Worker helps the youths or adults in their care strive to become as independent as their abilities allow.

There are currently multiple Direct Care Worker opportunities throughout Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Nassau and Suffolk.

Responsibilities include

Provide a safe, clean and caring living environment for program residents.
Foster/promote as much independent behavior as possible when supporting/teaching self-help skills.
Participate in activity programming including individual and group activities, sports, games, trips and enrichment activities, etc.
Attention to and support of medical issues, student educational/vocational needs, casework and clinical appointments.

Qualifications