The Arc Celebrates Direct Support Professionals Week Beginning Sept. 7

submitted by The Arc of Somerset County

The Arc of Somerset County is celebrating Direct Support Professionals Week, September 7 – September 13 to honor the Direct Support Professionals (DSP’s) who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The agency celebrated with a luncheon for the many Direct Support Professionals who work for The Arc today, Thursday, September 11th.

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in every aspect of their life including helping with dressing, administering medication, preparing meals, supplying transportation, providing vocational training, and helping with the individual’s general daily affairs. Their work ensures individuals with disabilities continue to live productive lives in the community of their choice. Nationwide, more than one million individuals with disabilities rely on the services of Direct Support Professionals to live, work and thrive in their communities, and the demand is growing rapidly.

“Direct Support Professionals enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families every day,” stated Lauren Panarella, Executive Director. “The work they do is a vital to The Arc’s mission. During their daily interactions, the individual and DSP often build a trusting and supportive relationship which ultimately improves the quality of support the individual receives.

For more information about The Arc of Somerset County, please visit www.thearcofsomerset.org

Photo Credit: by Laura Zeigler

In order of left to right: Direct Support Professionals of The Arc of Somerset County: Sakree Tillman, Manager of Supported Living Program, Debra Aker, Assistant Manager, Padma Rani, Teacher Assistant at The Jerry Davis Center for Children and Families, Karen Bergman, Assistant Manager of Employment Services, Tom Robinson, Maitenance Technician, Michele Reilly, Head Teacher at The Jerry Davis Center for Children and Families, Kathy Shimmel, IHP Coordinator, Gwen Harvey, Direct Service Professional Lauren Panarella, Executive Director, Chris Corvino, Associate Executive Director, Roy Lawrence, Vehicle Fleet Manager