JCI marks National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week

Submitted by Johnston County Industries

National Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week was Sept.13-19. This annual celebration highlights the life-changing contributions of the direct support professional workforce.

The main role of a DSP is to help people, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, lead self-directed lives, provide assistance with daily living activities and to encourage community involvement and inclusion. These professionals work face to face with the individuals we serve and support. They are the front line team members we rely on to cultivate relationships and grow trust in our mission and service provision.

“A dedicated direct support professional is the key to successful growth for a person with an intellectual disability. (They) encourage, believe in person-centered planning and are willing to be a part of a team. This makes a world of difference for the individuals we serve,” said Michelle Cole, Community-Based Support Services Supervisor at JCI.

JCI would like to take a moment to celebrate our DSP team members and their amazing and often unsung contributions in the human services field. We appreciate their dedication and commitment providing meaningful activities for the individuals we serve.

At JCI, we are always looking to expand our DSP workforce and offer opportunities for individuals who have a natural desire to assist others in skill development, independent living skills and goal achievement. To learn more, call 919-743-8700.