Honoring Our Direct Support Professionals
Every day, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) help people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) achieve their goals, build independence, and thrive in their communities.
During Direct Support Professional Recognition Week (September 13-19), Services for the UnderServed (S:US) proudly celebrates the dedicated, compassionate, and innovative professionals who support people with I/DD in living the lives they choose. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt everywhere: in moments of newfound independence, meaningful community connections, personal achievements, and goals reached.
DSPs are much more than caregivers. They are advocates, teachers, problem-solvers, mentors, and trusted partners. Whether they’re helping someone navigate a new opportunity, build daily living skills, pursue employment, strengthen relationships, or participate more fully in their community, DSPs empower people to thrive.
At S:US, our direct support professionals are the heart and soul of our Developmental Disabilities Services. Their creativity, dedication, and unwavering belief in the people they support help create pathways to greater independence, inclusion, and self-determination.
For many of the people we support, home is more than a place to live. It is the foundation for stability, belonging, personal growth, and meaningful participation in community life. DSPs help make that foundation stronger, supporting people in creating lives that are healthy, connected, and filled with possibility.
This week, and every week, we recognize the extraordinary contributions of DSPs whose commitment transforms lives. Their work strengthens families, builds more inclusive communities, and advances our work of helping New Yorkers build better lives, starting with home.
