Direct Support Professional Recognition: Highlighting the Heart of Our Mission

At the very heart of Our House, Inc. are our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who make every moment meaningful for the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities we serve. These dedicated team members provide daily support, encouragement and care, helping people live with dignity, purpose and joy.

DSPs do far more than assist with everyday tasks. They empower individuals to build skills, make choices and live as independently as possible. Whether it’s helping someone prepare a meal, get to work or attend a community event, DSPs are essential to fostering inclusion and personal growth.

Celebrating the Unsung Heroes of Our House

Direct Support Professionals are the backbone of quality care in any organization serving individuals with disabilities. At Our House, their work is rooted in compassion and guided by respect. DSPs are the ones who show up early, stay late and bring patience, humor and heart to every interaction.

Their responsibilities range from assisting with daily living activities to facilitating social outings and managing health-related tasks. But more than just completing duties, Our House DSPs create a sense of belonging and emotional security for our served individuals.

Why Recognition Matters in the Caregiving Community

While DSPs may not always be in the spotlight, the impact of their work is profound and lasting. Recognizing their dedication isn’t just an act of kindness, it’s essential for building a sustainable, appreciative culture within the caregiving profession.

This September, Our House proudly joined the nationwide celebration of Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, taking time to publicly and personally acknowledge the people who bring our organization’s mission to life every day.

Incorporating Personal Achievements and Recognition

In the past year, we have had the honor of recognizing some of our exceptional Residential and Day Services team members. Among them, Buka Anamdi, Darryel Brown, Robert Alston and Ebony Fuller were honored as CARE Award recipients for their outstanding contributions and commitment to the values of Our House.

Additionally, Marissa Torrone was named Employee of the Year in recognition of her embodiment of Our House’s C.A.R.E. values—Culture, Accountability, Responsibility and Enhancement.

Our team is also characterized by their commitment to the organization with their tenure aptly being named the Our House Lifer’s Club once they reach 5 years of service. We proudly celebrate 74 employees who have joined the Club, with 41 others achieving milestones of 10, 15, 20 and even 30+ years of dedication to Our House’s mission.

What Makes Our DSPs Extraordinary

DSPs at Our House don’t just provide services, they build meaningful relationships based on trust and mutual respect. Many have been with the organization for years, forming long-standing connections with individuals and families alike.

The role requires a deep understanding of each person’s goals, preferences and challenges. That kind of person-centered approach transforms a job into a calling:

• • Encouraging independence in small, everyday decisions

• • Supporting emotional well-being through consistency and care

• • Celebrating milestones and personal victories

These relationships often grow into lasting bonds that reflect the heart of what Our House is all about, creating a true sense of home.

Training, Passion and Professionalism in Action

Each Our House DSP completes a rigorous training program covering:

• • Safety and emergency procedures

• • Communication and behavioral support strategies

• • Medication administration and health monitoring

• • Cultural sensitivity and inclusion

But what sets them apart isn’t just training, it’s the passion they bring. Whether they’re problem-solving through a challenging day or cheering someone on as they master a new skill, Our House DSPs lead with empathy and commitment.

How Our House Supports and Recognizes DSPs

Our House believes that investing in DSPs is an investment in the individuals we serve. That’s why our organization offers:

• • Continuing education throughout the year

• • Specialized workshops on topics like mental health and advocacy

• • Opportunities for advancement into supervisory or leadership roles

This ongoing development ensures team members stay informed, prepared and empowered in their roles.

Annual Recognition Events and Everyday Appreciation

While recognition is woven into the daily culture at Our House, Direct Support Professional Recognition Week each September is a time to go above and beyond.

This year’s celebration included:

• • An appreciation party for all DSPs and the admin that support them

• • Catered meals for Residential and a visit from the Scream Truck for Day Services

• • Personalized thank-you notes from leadership

• • Social media spotlights highlighting DSPs across all of our programs

Every thank-you, shoutout and gesture reinforces a simple truth: DSPs are valued, seen and celebrated every step of the way.

Stories That Inspire

Every day, DSPs create moments of transformation. Like the team member who supported a young woman in preparing for her first job interview, coaching her through resume writing, interview practice and wardrobe choices. Or the DSP who helped a resident with mobility challenges gain enough confidence to join a local art class, discovering a hidden talent along the way.

These aren’t isolated events. They’re part of the culture at Our House, where every team member is empowered to go the extra mile.

Join Us in Honoring and Supporting DSPs

Everyone can play a role in celebrating the work of DSPs. Whether you have a personal connection to someone served by Our House or simply want to support your local community, here are a few ways to get involved:

• • Send a thank-you note to a DSP you know

• • Donate to programs that support DSP recognition and training

• • Advocate for fair wages and policy support for caregiving professionals

• • Share stories of impact on social media to raise awareness

Small actions can have a big impact on the morale and visibility of these essential workers.

Opportunities to Become a DSP or Support the Mission

If you’re looking for a career filled with meaning and purpose, consider becoming a Direct Support Professional at Our House. Our organization is always looking for compassionate individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of others.

Not ready for a career change, but still want to contribute? Donations help fund recognition events, training programs and quality-of-life initiatives for both employees and our served individuals.

Become a Part of the Our House Family

At Our House, Direct Support Professionals are more than caregivers, they are companions, mentors and champions for independence. Their work touches lives in deeply personal ways, building a foundation of trust and compassion that supports the entire mission. Join us in recognizing and supporting these incredible individuals. Whether you’re interested in working with us, donating to our mission or simply learning more, there’s a place for you in the Our House community – contact us today!