Congrats to our DSP contest winners!
Each September, our community comes together to celebrate the Direct Support Professionals (DSP) who make such an important impact in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The work of a DSP is complex and highly specialized, as they support every aspect of an individual’s daily life on a unique, person-by-person basis. These unsung heroes act as a lifeline for people with disabilities under normal circumstances.
2025 DSP Recognition Week Winners!
Remo Loosli “ He has found programs for them, a job, some guidelines, and social situations. He has completed countless applications, medical forms…He has helped with every aspect of their life! He has gone above and beyond, over and over!!!!”
Vehonna Sada “ Vehonna has worked closely with them…and in that time, she has not only supported them‚ but has truly changed their life.”
Joshua Payne “He truly loves his job and all the people he works with. He goes above and beyond with learning about the individual and their likes to have daily conversations about things they enjoy.”
Kavon Silas “Kavon has been a tremendous support as a DSP. They are very selective about who they spend time with and who they feel comfortable opening up to, but from their very first meeting, they seemed completely at ease with Kavon.”
Danyel Weidman “Danyel has been with them since they were 4 – they are 25. Not many families are so blessed to have such consistency…She understands they are extremely smart even though they are nonverbal, and doesn’t let anyone else forget that.”
Helen Raynor “She is their best friend! Helen speaks to them in such a calm voice and knows how to reassure them that all will be just fine when feeling a bit overwhelmed…someone that truly enjoys working with them.”
Karen Christopher “Karen Christopher has served as the lead direct support professional (DSP) for nearly ten years. Karen’s skill in providing person-centered support, her tireless advocacy, and her unwavering compassion make her a truly exceptional direct support professional.”
Shawn Nowak “Shawnie is amazing! For the first time in 10 years, I have been able to leave them with someone other than a family member…instilling independence with the highest regard for personal safety.”
Gregory Violetti “Because of many behavioral issues, he takes the time and has the patience of a saint trying to keep their attention towards the goal of learning new skills.”
Kayla Drosihn “Kayla has worked with them for 2 years. Kayla is also a hair stylist, which comes in very handy as they struggle with hair styling and learning how to use hair accessories and products that allow them to look like they have it all together when they walk out the door.”
Debbie Wood “Her professional experience with speech and communication is a huge asset. They can be easily distracted and lose focus in the middle of a conversation. Debbie has been quick to zone in on the struggles and offer an approach to help them recognize what happens when communication breaks down”
Laurie LaFaver “Laurie is a truly exceptional DSP! Laurie recently accompanied them on a 3-week cross-country trip…willingly took time off to accompany them and fulfill a family dream. This trip and ALL the adventures experienced on it would not have been possible otherwise.”
Alexandrea LaValley “Over the past several years, Alexandrea has gone above and beyond in her dedication to supporting them…their disability has often made it difficult for them to build meaningful relationships within the community, Alexandrea has helped change that.”
Stacie Wilson “Just Recently, she brought her individual on a vacation…the first true vacation that person had ever experienced”
Alisia Richardson “There are very few people in this world who can meet an individual where they are, no matter how complex, how demanding, or how ever-changing their needs may be. Alisia has embodied that devotion every single day.”
Ally McDonald “Ally has become part of our family, and there is not a day that goes by that we are not beyond thankful to have her in our lives. Not only has she had a true impact on them but she has changed our families’ lives with the time and dedication she puts into her position.”
Blanche Ates “Blanche has transformed their life and our families since she started working with them; it is evident that this is more than just any work for her: it is a vocation which she approaches with the greatest professionalism.”
Laura Fasano “Her love and commitment are truly exceptional, and she treats her individuals like her own children, creating a nurturing and compassionate environment that deeply impacts their lives.”
Liliana Fridrikson. “She is one of the kindest people that we have gotten the privilege to be with. She has gone above and beyond when caring for them. She is in the process of getting her doctorate in social work and has taught my entire family how to deal with some of their behaviors.”
Jene McCall “During the last 18 months, she has exemplified her dedication to her role as DSP…She is a truly amazing individual !!!”
