Training Program

Friendship Ventures staff members are provided with an orientation and training according to the needs of their positions.  Training hours vary from a minimum of 24 hours to six days.  Requirements vary based on position, with certain positions requiring specific certifications (e.g., lifeguard training, First Aid, CPR). 

Every staff member receives training in the following core areas:
•    Organization mission, facts, history and services
•    General information regarding persons with developmental disabilities
•    Program goals, objectives and routines
•    General responsibilities of direct care staff
•    Personnel policies and responsibilities                                        
•    Universal precautions and blood borne pathogens exposure control policy
•    Child and vulnerable adult abuse prevention policy
•    Injury management policy and worker’s compensation
•    Objectionable behavior/sexual harassment
•    Agency vehicles, transportation and vehicle safety policies
•    Staff and client personal property
•    Equipment and facilities
•    Right to know and safety training

Additional training is provided for our direct care, health care and program staff in the following areas:
Client Care Topics
Client application information and implications
General supervision and care
            Working with people with developmental disabilities
Working with people with visual impairments, deaf or hard of hearing
Working with people with physical disabilities (transfers, bathing, etc.)
Activities of daily living (ADLs) – how to assist and support
Check in and check out – talking with parents and caregivers about care/supervision issues
Child and vulnerable adult abuse/neglect prevention policy/procedures
Non-violent crisis intervention
Nutrition, special diets and assistance techniques

Health Care & Safety Topics
            Basic first aid
            Cabin care and safety
            Right to know/safety training
            Personal care of clients
            Special medical needs (epilepsy, heart conditions, diabetes, etc.)
            General client and staff safety
            Medication administration

Program and Activity Topics
Risk management
            General program and activity safety orientation
                        Emergency procedures (fire, missing camper, injured camper/staff)
            Tent campouts and outdoor cooking
            Aquatics - waterfront and swimming (fishing, boating, canoeing, swimming)
                        Community water safety
                        Emergency procedures (lake and pool)
            Hikes and nature activities
            Recreation sports, biking and games
            Arts and crafts activities
            Specialty programs
            Off-site community trip procedures
            Agency vehicle use and safety