By Leigh Anne Wenning
Contributing columnist
Some Direct Support Professionals who work with Shelby County Board of Developmental Disabilities pose for a photo during a recent appreciation event the organization held at Vandemark Farm.
In September, we celebrate Direct Support Professionals across the state of Ohio. DSPs are an essential part of how people with disabilities are served in Ohio. You may call them something different, provider, caregiver, companion, aide, but for so many people with disabilities, they are essential to their daily lives.
DSPs have many roles. Personal care may be what people think of most when thinking of the work DSPs do, but that only scratches the surface. DSPs may help with personal care and hygiene, if the person requires that service, but they may also help with banking, shopping or recreational activities.
DSPs can also be found in vocational settings, or workplaces. They can support, guide and provide assistance as a person with a disability is learning a new job. They may also assist in learning the skills necessary to obtain a job.
Although the Shelby County Board of DD does not employ DSPs directly, we work closely with agency provider partners who do. We also assist those interested in being an independent provider and can assist with locating individuals who need services.
At the Shelby County Board of Developmental Disabilities, we know how impactful DSPs are and we strive to ensure that they feel supported and appreciated, not just in September, but all year long. Most recently, we held an appreciation event for DSPs and their families at Vandemark Farm.
For more information on the DSP role, check out our website at www.shelbydd.org or call 937-497-8155 and ask for the Provider Support Coordinator. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for regular updates.
Wenning is the superintendent of the Shelby County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Find out more at ShelbyDD.org.
