This year September 13-19 is National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. Direct Support Professionals, or DSPs, are people who work as direct care workers, in-home support workers, personal assistants, or attendants that work directly with people with disabilities. These talented and skilled individuals play an integral role in our mission. They build meaningful relationships, provide opportunities to learn and grow, and help individuals live fulfilling lives.

“They strive each day to ensure that the consumers we support are ‘living their best lives’ and doing the things that they want to do! They encourage, support, assist, and do what needs to be done daily. They are why Didlake can provide exemplary rehabilitation supports,” Emily Theimer, Program Director Community Services.

“From helping people stay on the job and safe, or applying for and receiving unemployment benefits, and returning to work after being away,” said Erik Smith, Director of Employment Services, “Didlake’s staff have made sure that people have what they need to continue being successful. Employment Specialists have been in the community, on the front lines, driving Didlake’s mission of enriching lives because creating opportunities is what being a DSP for Didlake is all about!”

DSPs ensure that people with disabilities have the necessary supports that enable them to live, work, and enjoy life more independently in a community-based setting. DSPs are integral to helping individuals with disabilities live successfully in their communities.

Please join us in celebrating and thanking the Direct Support Professionals who play a meaningful role in enriching the lives of people with disabilities in our community.