Governor Recognizes Direct Support Professionals

FRAMINGHAM — The Assoc. for Developmental Disabilities Providers (ADDP), a statewide association representing community-based human services providers, announced that Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has proclaimed Sept. 7-13 as Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. The proclamation calls attention to the work of direct support professionals (DSPs) who assist with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, and to individuals who have brain injuries, in communities across the state.

“Direct support professionals enable individuals with disabilities to live meaningful, productive lives and avoid more costly institutional care,” Healey’s proclamation states. “Massachusetts recognizes the important role direct support professionals play in improving the quality of life and care of people across the state.”

DSP Recognition Week is observed nationally to highlight the skilled, compassionate workforce at the core of services for individuals with disabilities. These professionals are essential in enhancing the quality of life for countless people across the Commonwealth, and this week of recognition ensures they have the support needed to continue their invaluable work.

“DSPs carry out work that is central to the lives of the people they serve and to our human services network as a whole,” ADDP President and CEO Stephanie Costa said. “They bring professionalism and consistency to their work, and families depend on them. Gov. Healey’s proclamation affirms the value of this workforce in our communities.”

Direct support professionals include direct care staff, personal care attendants, in-home support workers, and others who provide critical, community-based supports and services that help individuals live meaningful and productive lives.