Genesis honors frontline workers who support people with disabilities
Genesis Development of central Iowa recognizes its staff in honor of National Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Recognition Week, Sept. 11-15.
The board of directors purchased gifts and wrote letters to honor the work of direct support professionals who provide services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the community. Genesis Development direct support professionals help individuals with disabilities live as independently as possible.
“Our direct support professionals are hard-working, dedicated men and women, who sacrifice a lot to support the people with disabilities we serve,” said Terry Johnson, Genesis Development CEO. “Medicaid reimbursement rates make it challenging to pay the wages they deserve, so we have found a few other ways to show our appreciation.” In addition to the gifts, many regional service directors are planning special recognitions of their own.
Direct Support Professional Recognition Week is part of the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) National Advocacy Campaign, whose mission is to enhance the lives of all people with disabilities who rely on long-term supports and services by obtaining the resources to recruit, train and retain a highly qualified and sustainable workforce.
“DSP Recognition Week is one way we try to say ‘thank you’ to the people who turn the intentions of our laws and regulations written to provide opportunities for people with disabilities into actions,” said Barbara Merrill, CEO of ANCOR. “It’s also a very important reminder to our legislators and policymakers that this workforce is essential, and their wages and training deserve attention as states set rates for IDD services.”
Direct Support Professional Recognition Week is celebrated annually across the country with special events and ceremonies earmarked to honor the tens of thousands of workers who enable people with intellectual, developmental and other significant disabilities and their families to live healthy lives in their communities.
