This week we are celebrating Direct Support Professional (DSP) Appreciation Week. Direct Support Professionals are the dedicated, compassionate, and skilled individuals who work tirelessly every day to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) live fulfilling, independent, and joyful lives.

DSPs are the backbone of our organization. They are mentors, advocates, friends, and trusted partners. They provide essential support, from helping with daily routines and managing households to facilitating community inclusion and building meaningful relationships. Their work is a testament to their unwavering commitment and passion, and it is thanks to them that our mission is realized every day.

We ask you to join us in honoring these incredible individuals. Whether they work with your loved one, or you know a DSP in your community, please take a moment to thank them for their dedication. A simple note, a kind word, or a small gesture of gratitude can mean the world to someone who gives so much of themselves.

Here are a few ways you can show your appreciation this week:

Simply Say “Thank You”: A sincere, verbal thank you is a powerful way to acknowledge their hard work.

Send a Note or Card: A handwritten card or email expressing your gratitude for their support can be a deeply personal and meaningful gesture.

Provide a Snack or Coffee: A small treat can brighten their day.

Share a Positive Story: If you have a specific story about a DSP who has made a difference in your life or the life of a loved one, share it with them and with us!