Direct Support Professionals at Citizen Advocates play a vital role as specialized caregivers. In this role they must also adapt quickly, which has been the case during the ongoing public health emergency.
Specialized caregivers empower individuals daily
Citizen Advocates is celebrating National Direct Support Professionals Week in recognition of the vital role these specialized caregivers serve by supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community.
Direct Support Professional Recognition Week (Sept. 13-19, 2020) is celebrated annually across the country with special events and ceremonies to honor the tens of thousands of workers who empower people with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities and their families to live healthy lives of their choosing.
Citizen Advocates has planned events to honor and recognize DSPs who work in residential settings, day habilitation and community-based services throughout the region.
“The direct support professionals who work for Citizen Advocates are skilled and compassionate individuals who provide exceptional services to those we support,” said James Button, CEO of Citizen Advocates. “They advance the mission of Citizen Advocates by performing challenging and personalized job responsibilities 24-hours a day to meet a broad range of needs for many individuals and families.”
There is a significant amount of work DSPs perform behind the scenes, but it is essential to those who depend on their help with the activities of daily living – especially for some of the more vulnerable members of the community.
Whether it is daily physical care, teaching social skills, recreational activities, or participating in community settings to develop job skills, DSPs fulfill the desire for independence and sense of belonging of those they support.
“DSP Recognition Week is one of many ways we can offer a heart-felt thank you to the people who carry out the laws and regulations designed to protect and provide opportunity for those directly or otherwise affected by a disability,” said Mr. Button. “It’s also a very important reminder to our state legislators and policymakers that this workforce is essential, and their commitment to livable wages and training must remain a top priority.”
Founded in 1975, Citizen Advocates is a leading provider of developmental disability, mental health and addiction prevention, treatment and recovery services in the North Country.
To learn more about career opportunities as a Direct Support Professional, click here.
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