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SERVE · ACHIEVE · GROW · EMPOWER
Frequently Asked Questions
COMMON HIRING QUESTIONS
Below are answers to common questions about working with us, including job requirements, training, and benefits. We’re committed to creating a positive work environment where every employee can grow and contribute.
For questions about open positions or the hiring process, reach out to us at Sage@applywithus.org.
Do I need experience?
No, you do not need experience! We offer a range of employment opportunities for those new to our field who wish to gain experience. For our direct support positions, no prior experience is required as we provide all the necessary training and hands-on experience to help you grow successfully in the role. This opportunity is ideal for individuals looking to make a positive impact on others, students, and anyone seeking valuable experience.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:44:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Who Do We Support?
We provide support to individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, offering services both in their homes and within the community throughout Ventura County. SAGE supports individuals aged 18 and older with a variety of support needs and diagnoses. Our services are primarily funded through Tri-Counties Regional Center.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:46:10 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
What Does the Day-to-Day Look Like?
Every day looks different for everyone, which is one of the most magical parts of this type of work. SAGE is designed to provide individualized support to each person, meeting them where they are. Daily support varies based on the individual's needs and may include:
- Teaching, training, and supporting with medical appointments
- Grocery shopping and menu planning
- Cleaning and cooking
- Emergency skills
- Transportation training
- Community connecting
- Money management
- Personal care
- Medication support
- Checking mail
- Laundry and organizing
- Coping skills
- Health and wellness goals
- Exercising
- Behavioral support
Our goal is to tailor our support to each person's unique requirements, ensuring they receive the best possible care and assistance.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:46:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
What Benefits Are Offered?
We offer many benefits to all eligible employees, including but not limited to health insurance with employer contribution, dental, vision, Aflac, 401K, vacation time, sick time, bereavement time, holiday pay, mileage reimbursement, birthday bonuses, employee referral bonuses, phone/data stipend, employee resource center, promotional/growth opportunities, trainings, etc. We also offer an inviting, inclusive, comfortable working environment and culture with tons of supports throughout your employment!
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:46:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
What is the Background Check Process?
We require all employees to obtain Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI clearances as a non-negotiable condition of employment. SAGE covers the upfront costs for these background checks. As a provider/vendor of Tri-Counties Regional Center, and pursuant to Title 17 California Code of Regulations Section 58643 58614(c)(7), we cannot employ anyone with a felony conviction or a record of physical, sexual, or fiduciary offenses. SAGE maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any incidents, past or future, that could compromise the integrity of the services and supports we provide.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:45:49 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
What Advancement Opportunities Are There?
We take pride in our long history of promoting from within and encourage our team to have open conversations about growth opportunities. SAGE provides training opportunities to all employees. Most of our leadership team members have been promoted from community coach positions.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:46:46 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
What is the Training Like?
We take great pride in providing comprehensive training for our employees. SAGE offers and covers the cost of training in various areas, including:
-First Aid/CPR
-Sexual Harassment
-Competency-Based Trainings
-On-the-job training alongside another employee before supporting someone independently
-Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NCI) training
-Specialized trainings for specific needs such as seizures, diabetes, and non-verbal communication
Our goal is to ensure that every employee is fully prepared and confident in their role.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:46:58 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Do I Have to Drive Someone?
Yes, driving is a requirement for most positions at SAGE. While we encourage the use of public transportation to help individuals develop skills and gain independence, there are times when it is not practical or in the individual's best interest. In such cases, SAGE employees transport individuals in their own vehicles to meet their needs for medical appointments, grocery shopping, errands, and community engagement. All SAGE employees must have an active driver's license, access to a vehicle, and maintain current car insurance. We reimburse mileage while on the clock at the federal reimbursement rate per mile.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:47:14 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Can I Request Time Off?
Of course! SAGE believes that taking time off is essential for maintaining health and balance. Time off is granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Employees are required to submit a request form at least 14 days in advance for non-holidays and 21 days in advance for holidays. We pride ourselves on approving all requests for time off whenever possible and will make every effort to accommodate requests submitted on time and in accordance with our policy.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:47:28 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
What If I Am Not a Good Match for Someone I Support?
We strive to match our employees with individuals they support based on various factors such as interests, location, availability, characteristics, qualities, gifts, and skills. If the initial match isn't ideal, we collaborate as partners to assess what is working and what isn’t, providing additional support and training where beneficial. If all solutions have been explored and the match still isn't successful, we will consider reassigning you to another individual you can better support.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:47:44 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
What is the On-boarding Experience?
We’ve got you covered every step of the way! Our team is dedicated to supporting you. SAGE's on-boarding experience is designed to be seamless and efficient, continually evolving to meet the needs of our new team members. The process includes application reviews, reference checks, interviews, background checks, drug screening, HR paperwork, new employee orientation, and comprehensive training. We ensure that every step is as simple and quick as possible, helping you to get started confidently in your new role.
Last Updated: Fri Jun 14 2024 17:45:14 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
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