DDSN Thanks Those Who Care for Individuals with Disabilities During Direct Support Professional Recognition Week
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) is using Direct Support Professional Recognition Week as a time to thank those who provide daily care for individuals with disabilities. The annual recognition week this year is September 10-16.
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are those who work directly with people who have intellectual or developmental disabilities by assisting them with activities and helping them accomplish everyday tasks. DSPs work with people on an individual level, meaning the level of care provided is dependent on the person who needs it.
“Providing direct support can be as simple as helping someone with an activity, or as detailed as helping someone brush their teeth,” said Tommy McDaniel, DDSN’s Director of Facility Operations. “The DSPs at DDSN understand this and are valued members of our staff. We appreciate their dedication to serving the vulnerable individuals in communities across our state.”
DDSN employs DSPs at five Regional Centers in South Carolina where individuals with disabilities live. These include: the Midlands Center in Columbia; Coastal Center in Summerville; Whitten Center in Clinton; Pee Dee Center in Florence; and Saleeby Center in Hartsville. Additionally, DDSN has an extensive contracted provider network that includes a large population of provider-employed DSPs who provide care to those with intellectual or developmental disabilities in communities.
Organizations like ANCHOR, a group that advocates for community-based providers, have acknowledged the nationwide shortage in DSP staff. This shortage has also impacted DDSN, which is why the agency developed a DSP career path that allows individuals looking for employment to train as a DSP and gain promotions and raises based on experience.
“Choosing to become a DSP is one of the most rewarding decisions someone can make because of the impact you’re able to have on the lives of the people you help,” said Constance Holloway, DDSN Interim Director. “It’s a tough job, but one that pays off in multiple ways. We’re thankful for the team of Direct Support Professionals we have at DDSN and hope to see that grow with more people who want to make a difference.”
The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs plans, develops, coordinates and funds services for residents with various severe, lifelong disabilities. Populations served include individuals with traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disabilities.
For more on DDSN’s activities and mission, visit our website and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
