We’re celebrating Direct Support Professional Week (September 10-16, 2023) by highlighting our outstanding DSPs.

RHA’s marketing team recently reached out to administrators in Georgia, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee with a simple request: help us identify DSPs who are blooming at RHA. They identified over fifty DSPs who are going above and beyond to provide quality care to the people we support.

Below are some of their stories, words of wisdom, advice, and more.

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What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP has the heart to take care of and assist others. 

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I enjoy the opportunity to make a difference in someone‘s life. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
While staying at the NC Start East Center, a person I supported improved their health by learning coping skills, exercising, and eating healthy meals. 

What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Understand the population we serve and why it’s important that DSPs create positive experiences for them. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP understands all that is required to fulfill their duties and obligations. 

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I enjoy gaining knowledge and understanding. I am thankful for my training in medical care and the people I’ve met and formed friendships with. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory was feeling respected by my coworkers when I was named DSP of the Year. I’ve also loved watching the progress made by the people I’ve supported throughout my 13 years with RHA. 

What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
It’s hard work, but very fulfilling. Your hard work pays off when you receive love and respect from your people supported, coworkers, and management. I feel blessed to have been hired at RHA. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP always puts people supported first and cares for them to the best of their abilities. 

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I enjoy just being around all the individuals. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory as a DSP was taking the kids to the Marbles Museum. Seeing them enjoy the different activities made me happy. 

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Working as a DSP is a fun experience, and all the people supported have been loving. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP loves helping people. They show respect to the people supported and receive respect in return.    

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I love helping the people we support. It makes me happy when they’re happy! I try to go above and beyond my duties, and I enjoy helping out my peers.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One of my favorite memories was the RHA talent show. The people supported enjoyed it and talked about it for a long time.      

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them it’s a very rewarding, satisfying job. I enjoy it and can’t picture myself doing anything else.   

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
I’m beyond flattered to be nominated again for DSP Week. Every day, I try to be an outstanding DSP by setting an example for others; I give this job my all and hope others will be inspired to do the same. It is humbling to be nominated. I will continue to represent those values and make RHA proud. Kobe Bryant once said, “Rest in the end, not in the middle.”  

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I enjoy making a difference in people’s everyday lives. I take pride in seeing the people I support make personal progress, obtain employment, improve their health, and find their own voice. It’s important for me to end each day knowing I’ve made a difference that goes beyond my paycheck. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
We make lots of good memories every day! A recent favorite memory is seeing a person I supported get a new job after years of waiting. The look on his face when he got his first paycheck and jumped for joy made the hard work worth it! 

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Make sure you’re here for the right reasons. Show compassion and empathy and try your best to be very patient. Staying Zen will help you overcome anything. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP has compassion and patience. They treat the people they serve with dignity and help provide them with opportunities.  

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy being a part of people’s milestones and showing them the acceptance they deserve. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One of my coworkers hosted an annual fish fry for staff and the people we support. We would cook each other’s favorite dishes and spend quality time together. 

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell someone considering becoming a DSP that the job requires compassion, patience, and relationship-building skills. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP shows empathy and patience and has great communication skills. 

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I love helping people achieve their goals, whether they are as simple as making a purchase at the grocery store or as complex as planning a beach trip. I love helping them improve their self-confidence and exceed their own expectations.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
Recently, I accompanied three people we support on their very first boat trip. We explored Norris Lake and delivered ice cream to other people on the lake. Taking this trip was a goal they had set for themselves, and they achieved it! I will never forget the smiles on their faces. 

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I highly recommend RHA to anyone considering working with individuals with intellectual disabilities. It’s a very rewarding job that helps you develop humility, patience, kindness, and compassion. Serving and being responsible for someone other than yourself allows you to grow and develop your character in ways you don’t get the chance to working other jobs. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP goes above and beyond to provide the best care possible.  

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy knowing what I do brings joy and happiness to others. You never know what battles a person is fighting and how it affects their quality of life. You never know what can turn someone’s day around! 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One of my favorite memories was running into someone at the grocery store that previously was in our day program. He was pushing shopping carts and was excited to tell me he moved into his own place and was taking college courses.  

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them working for RHA is a pleasure and a very rewarding career choice. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
I truly love what I do and being able to provide the people I support with what they need. I can’t see myself doing anything else. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy making a difference in people’s lives – helping them live the lives I would want for myself or my family.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
In Colorado Springs in the early 90’s, when I first started working with this population, they weren’t well accepted by the community. I would take the people I supported to the same places over and over, and I remember feeling the community begin to welcome us. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I feel being a DSP is an easy job when you have the heart for it. I have worked other jobs but didn’t feel as fulfilled as I do working as a DSP. I guess it’s my calling. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP has a lot of patience and understanding. They help the people they support be as independent as possible and make sure they receive the care they need.  

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
The most enjoyable part of being a DSP is watching the people we support become more independent, and seeing the excitement and happiness they experience when they learn something new. I also enjoy celebrating their birthdays. The excitement it brings just melts my heart. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memories come from watching the people I support achieve their personal goals. I love watching them volunteer with Meals on Wheels, helping others in the community. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them it’s very rewarding to be able to show love and care to the people we support. You have to be devoted. You will create a lot of great memories and have an amazing time working here. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It is an honor to be recognized as an outstanding DSP. To be able to help others in need is a great job! 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy being able to help others reach their goals and seeing them smile every day. I’m thankful for the great support team I have in my coworkers and manager.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I cherish the memories of grocery shopping, taking van rides, and just going different places with the people we support. Seeing them help with washing their own clothes is also a joy. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them you must have the heart to help others in need. If you are understanding and caring, and have love and patience, then this job is for you. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
Being recognized as an outstanding DSP makes me feel proud of my work. I love being of service to the people we support at RHA. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy taking care of the people we support, making sure their needs are met, and making a difference in their lives. It means a lot to know they trust me. When I receive the smiles, the hugs, and the “I Love You’s,” how could I not enjoy being a DSP? 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I still think about one of my first memories as a DSP. I was helping a person get ready for bed and had to use the lift. I knew she needed to trust me first, so I reminded her that I would take good care of her. I asked her to trust me, and she agreed. When I laid her down in her bed, she had the biggest smile on her face. I’ll never forget that moment when she knew she could trust me. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing the people I support can depend on me. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Always remember: safety first. Get to know the people you support. Don’t take anything personally – the people we support have good and bad days, like anyone else. You may face challenges as a DSP, but anything worth having is worth fighting for. This job isn’t for everyone, but if you’re compassionate, empathetic, and patient: Welcome to my world! Come find your niche supporting people.  

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP listens to the people they serve, ensures they are advocated for, and supports them in meeting their own needs. I try to be an outstanding DSP by loving and valuing what I do. It is not just a job; it is a chance to help others and be a part of a supportive community. I truly value all the people I support and am so happy to know my work makes a difference in their lives. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy working with people with different backgrounds, needs, and experiences. We all learn from each other. My experience as a caregiver and mother helps me know how to fight for opportunities to improve the lives of the people I support. As a DSP, I enjoy being a team player, bringing out the best in the people I serve, and being part of a community that fosters positive discussions and engagement.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
A child I supported hit me on the back of the head while I was driving. After safely stopping the car, I tried several techniques to understand his frustration. The child could not communicate with words. I asked yes or no questions, maintained eye contact, used flash cards, watched his body language, encouraged him to gesture and point, and used sign language. With patience, I understood that he had dropped his toy on the floor. After I gave it back to him, he hugged me and smiled. This is one of my favorite memories because I was able to utilize and improve my communication skills and the child did as well.  

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Without a doubt, I recommend RHA as a place to work. RHA is a company dedicated to employee and client satisfaction and morale, supervisors are knowledgeable and caring, and RHA has great benefits. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP is helpful, dependable, and a team player. I’m proud and pleased to be considered “outstanding” in this field. It shows that my work and efforts don’t go unnoticed. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy supporting people and witnessing their achievements, progression, and growth. It’s so rewarding to be a part of that process. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memories come from the relationships, laughs, accomplishments, and sometimes even failures. They are just some of the many steps unique to each individual’s progress. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
This job is fulfilling. Be genuine, compassionate, considerate, have integrity, and be willing to learn. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To be nominated as an outstanding DSP is such a privilege and honor. An outstanding DSP provides the people we support with the care they need to succeed and grow.  

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy creating meaningful memories with my coworkers and the people we support. As time passes, my team has felt like my family, and there’s nothing better than a family-like work environment.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One of my favorite memories is the Spring Fling. The Spring Fling takes place in the community and gives the people we support an opportunity to meet others outside of RHA and to have some fun while doing it.  

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would say go for it! RHA offers great benefits and supports not only the people we serve, but their employees.  

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP works to increase the quality of life of the people they support. They create an environment where people can blossom and reach their full potential in their homes and communities.  

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy interacting with the people I support. Coaching them to achieve their personal goals is gratifying on many levels. I also enjoy putting smiles on their faces. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
On an outing to the park, I observed the people I support smiling and laughing as ducks approached them. They fed the ducks some oats and frozen veggies. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
My one piece of advice for someone considering becoming a DSP is to evaluate their capacity for caring. The key to success as a DSP is to genuinely care for the people we serve. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP is caring, passionate, patient, and advocates for the people they support. They have knowledge and understanding of intellectual and developmental disabilities. They go the extra mile to help the people they support as well as their peers. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy helping people improve their quality of life, enhance their skills, and reach their goals. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memories are celebrating holidays and birthdays. I love seeing the excitement it brings to the people we support. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
This is a very rewarding job. Come join us if you are caring, passionate, patient, and are willing to learn about the people we support. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It’s a privilege and an honor to be recognized as an outstanding DSP. The recognition reinforces my resolve to do my very best to serve the people we support. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy providing the necessary skills and assistance for the people we support to become independent and improve their quality of life. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memories come from learning from the people I support every day. I’ve learned from them the attitude of love, humility, and gratitude. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
The Scripture says if you serve your fellow man, you’re serving God. Nothing is more fulfilling and rewarding for me than serving those who need our voices, skills, and assistance. If you are loving, patient, and tolerant, RHA is the place for you. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To be nominated means a lot to me; it tells me I’m doing my job well and I’m appreciated. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I love supporting people as they work hard to meet their goals. I enjoy seeing how they get excited about learning and having fun.    

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One of my favorite memories is the talent show. I love watching the people we serve entertain each other and have fun. It’s so sweet and enjoyable.  

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I love my job. We not only help the people we serve, but we also help one another. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It means a lot to me to be recognized for the work that we do.  

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy making a difference in the lives of the people I serve. They make a difference in my life too, because I’ve learned a lot from them.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memories come from seeing people in the community that we used to support. They recognize me like they never left. That lets me know I did my job well. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Come join our team! Have an open mind because every day is different. We are all here to learn from each other. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
An outstanding DSP provides the best support possible, physically, mentally, or emotionally.  

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I’m honestly passionate about my work. I enjoy advocating for those that cannot advocate for themselves. I enjoy helping people reach goals that some may believe are unreachable. 

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One of my favorite memories was taking the people we support to Zumba. They had so much fun, and it warmed my heart to see the joy on their faces. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
RHA is one of the best companies I’ve worked for in this field. My time here has been enjoyable. My team is supportive and hardworking, which makes everything run smoothly. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
I try to be an outstanding DSP by coming to work with a smile on my face, ready to make a positive impact in the lives of the people we support and my coworkers. When I’m helping people with their personal hygiene, feeding them, cleaning their wheelchairs, etc., I try to give it my all, even if I’m the last person to clock out. One of my favorite scriptures is Galatians 6:9, ‘‘And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.’’ It means do not get tired of doing the right thing because at some point (usually when you least expect it) you will receive a reward if you don’t give up.   

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
As someone with a disability, many people helped me get to where I am today. I enjoy being a part of someone else’s journey to becoming the best version of themself. I believe a disability is a different ability.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memories are witnessing the people we support meet their personal goals; for example, one person progressed from being a “two–man lift” to a “stand and pivot”.” I also love seeing their excitement when their families visit. 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them to have compassion, patience, empathy, be eager to learn, and be a team player. Being a DSP is not the prettiest job, but knowing you are making a difference is very rewarding. 

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
I’m grateful for those who see me that way. I come to work, do my best, and I have fun while doing my job.  

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I love supporting our individuals.  

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One favorite memory was taking a person I supported to the park for the first time. I was so excited when I found out she knew how to swing! Another favorite memory was helping a few people make a poster for Nurses Week. They did an awesome job making the poster! 

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Ask yourself if you have empathy, compassion, love, understanding, and dedication for the individuals you would support. 

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Thank you to the DSPs who participated in this feature, as well as all of the incredible DSPs working each day to help the people we support live life to its fullest potential! It is because of you that RHA continues to be a place #WhereHumansBloom.

If this article has inspired you, or you know someone who may be a good fit in a Direct Support role, please visit rhajobs.com to view available positions near you.

Direct Support Professional Week is Sept. 11-17th 2022, and we’re celebrating by highlighting DSPs across all four of our service states.

RHA’s marketing team recently reached out to administrators in North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Pennsylvania with a simple request: help us identify DSPs who are blooming at RHA. With their help, we were able to identify nearly thirty DSPs who are going above and beyond to provide quality care to the people we support.

Below are stories, words of wisdom, advice, and more from some of those DSPs.

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North Carolina

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To be recognized as an outstanding DSP is such an honor. However, I am just doing a job that I absolutely love. I have been in the healthcare field for over 26 years, and being a Direct Support Professional is the best job I have ever had.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I enjoy working with the people we support on life skills that help them become more independent. This is not just a job to me, as it is so rewarding and fulfilling.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I have so many memories but the best ones are watching all of the people we support hit their goals and be proud of themselves- as they should be.

What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell anyone that is considering becoming a DSP to do it if they have patience, compassion to assist others, adaptability, reliability, attentiveness, good communication, and a willingness to be a team player. This isn’t just a job; it is a fulfilling, rewarding career with a great company with a mission to provide a safe and healthy environment while creating opportunities for personal outcomes.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To be an outstanding DSP you have to have humility and put the needs of others before yourself.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I enjoy spending time with the people we serve, particularly doing different activities like dancing or having a spa day. Who doesn’t love to be pampered?

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I have so many. I enjoy making their birthdays special; I’ll cook their favorite meal or prepare their favorite snack.

What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
If you have a love for helping people and a heart full of patience and kindness, then this is the perfect role and the perfect company to work for.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To be an outstanding Direct Support Professional, it takes patience and understanding to help the people we serve prosper and become the best they can possibly be. Safety also plays a huge part of preparing them for the outside world.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
The most enjoyable part of being a Direct Support Professional is watching the people that we serve reach all of their goals. The warm smiles that we get when completing their objectives and helping them achieve goals and skills that allow them to become a unique part of our society.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them that it is a joy helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities become integrated into their community.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
I feel that an outstanding DSP is responsible for the health, safety and wellbeing of the people we support. We are also responsible for supporting their identity and and helping them work towards personal outcomes that go along with their personal care plans.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I love being a DSP because I get to take care of individuals with intellectual disabilities. I get to assist them in achieving their goals and helping them perform tasks in the outside community.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
Some of my favorite memories are watching my clients achieve their goals and reach their full potential. I also enjoy taking them on trips and outings.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
The clients make the job; it is all about the clients. You get to help them become more independent within society, as well as network with new people.

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Tennessee

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To me it means putting the individual’s needs before your own and always going above and beyond for their happiness- and letting them experience things in the outside world.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
What I enjoy most are the bonds we have built together and the memories we have made. I also enjoy knowing that I have changed so many lives forever.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory would be when we took the trip to Dollywood! The individuals had never been to Dollywood, so it was a new experience for them and they all looked so happy and excited to try out the roller coasters and water rides. They also loved staying in the big castle and said it felt surreal. They all still talk about that trip to this day, and ask to go back all the time.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them to be caring and understanding of the individuals, and treat them as your own family. Go out of your way to build meaningful bonds with everybody, and always be flexible and adaptable because things happen all the time that we may not expect but you have to roll with it!

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
Being an outstanding DSP entails being a member of a team that functions efficiently and cooperatively. I couldn’t do this job without the amazing support of my coworkers, nurses, and management. It also means being passionate and committed to providing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the tools they need to overcome obstacles in areas and activities that might otherwise keep them from being independent, and enabling them to live the best lives possible.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I take pride in being an advocate for the people I serve by understanding their unique circumstances and identifying the best possible solutions for their goals and needs. I also love taking them on community outings, like trips to the park or local events.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
Taking the people I support to Dollywood is by far one of my favorite memories! Particularly at the water park; we had a ton of fun. I enjoyed seeing the joy on their faces! To this day, they still talk about that trip.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I have worked for RHA for over three years. One of my favorite parts of being a DSP is seeing how much my clients look forward to seeing me, and how if I wasn’t there they made an effort to find out where I was. Learning that I made an impact in their lives is very rewarding. If you are thinking about becoming a DSP, you should know that it can be highly fulfilling role and will provide you with a great opportunity to see the need for, and importance of, DSPs.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
Being an outstanding DSP means being their microphone and not their voice. It means advocating for that person whether it’s in regards to their health, their interests, or their relationships.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
The impact relationships make in a person’s life is immeasurable. Not only am I talking about relationships with peers, family, friends, or people in their community, but also spiritual connections. When a person supported wants to explore their faith, I enjoy inviting them to church. Watching them develop and define their own relationship with God has brought so much joy to my life.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I have been working in this field for close to 20 years. My favorite memories revolve around when my individuals are at the yearly Special Olympics just seeing them out on the field having a good time smiling and laughing.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Any job in healthcare can teach you how to keep someone safe, but a select few companies like RHA will also support you to help them thrive and live a robust life.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
Being an outstanding DSP means that you are passionate, dedicated, and reliable and you get to help care for others in away that directly impacts their lives while also helping you grow and learn as a person.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy being able to help individuals, especially cooking for them. Being able to cook a meal for them that takes them back to their childhood makes my heart so happy.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One of my favorite memories would have to be dressing up the girls, doing their hair and makeup and then taking them to our local Christmas parade and the lights at Bristol Motor Speedway.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Being a DSP is a very rewarding job that requires your full attention and patience. Patience is really key.

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Georgia

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It is an honor, and it makes me feel like I am doing an outstanding job. It is a good feeling and I love being a part of the lives of those we support.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
Witnessing the pride the people we support take in themselves when they meet a goal or overcome a situation. To see how happy they are when they accomplish something that means something to them.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory as a DSP is when we celebrated the birthday of a person we support. She was in her fifties and she said it was the best birthday party that she had ever had… It really meant a lot to her. At that age, a small celebration was the best birthday she had ever had. It makes you think about the things we take for granted; just dancing and cupcakes was something big to her.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
It is a very rewarding role. You just need to celebrate the small victories and know that though they may be small to you, they are huge to the people we support. RHA really treats their employees well and acknowledges them through bonuses and compensation for your hard work. Our efforts are recognized, and that is a good feeling.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It makes me feel proud, very proud…  like dreams do come true. It makes me feel like my work is acknowledged and that people do see me, and what I do.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
It is very gratifying to help others. Even though it is challenging, it allows me opportunities to solve problems and do real world thinking. It makes me a better problem solver, and allows me to be creative in my thinking.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory is Super Saturday Halloween; we had a Halloween party for people supported, and seeing them dancing and having a good time was great. I got to meet other people that do the same work as me and see others do really great things. I remember the decorations, the smiles… it was iconic, and I loved that night.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them to make sure you are compassionate and you treat people with integrity. Be devoted, too, because the people you support depend on you.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It means a lot to me to know that I am helping people that need help, and it means a lot that someone has noticed my work. That in itself means a lot.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy the relationships that I build with the people I support and knowing that I am helping them and that  I am doing something good by helping them.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
When I was working at one of our group homes, we had Family and Friends Day, and seeing all the people dancing and enjoying their family members was great. We had such good community involvement, and all of the people supported were having a good time.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them that it is a good job and gives you a chance to help people that really need help. It is just a good way to give back and feel good about what you do every day. I really like RHA, they are a good company.

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Pennsylvania

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
I take a lot of pride in making sure my members get all the care they deserve and need. It’s an honor to get noticed, and to be chosen for this. It reflects on what I do for the people we support & I will continue strive for excellence.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy putting smiles on the faces of the people we support. I enjoy making priceless, countless memories with them.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
There are way too many to choose from…. going camping with them, going to the YMCA, playing video games with them, going outside to shoot hoops together and such. If I had to choose just one, I would probably say going to a live WWE/WWF wrestling show. The people I support have dreamt for so long of attending a live wrestling show & just to be able to get in there to watch the show, and then sit really close to the wrestling ring…. Seeing all of the people I support in awe, amazed, and with so many smiles and laughter… It makes all of the team effort worth it. It is something I will never forget and I’m pretty sure the people supported will remember that forever, especially given how often they still talk about it.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell anyone that being a DSP is like being at home. I promise they will create many new, unforgettable memories. They will be able to go on cool trips, and new activities with the people they support. Plus, it’s so nice to have full access to other members of the Deaf community by working here, and to make a good living from it. Every day does not feel like “work” because we are too busy having fun and making memories and a difference in the lives of the people we support, and that makes this a place worthy of working for.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It means that you’re willing to go the extra mile.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
Making the people we support happy.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
Throwing a surprise birthday party for one of the people we support.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
You have to have patience! Patience and a kind heart.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
For me, being an outstanding DSP means you always keep your focus on the best interests of the individuals we serve.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
Knowing that I impact the people we support in a meaningful way by supporting their interests along with their health and medical needs.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I have so many good memories, and it’s the bond I created with individuals and the trust they give me that make me the happiest. It’s the unexpected, positive moments that I will always cherish. The one thing I will never forget is the smiles and pure joy on their faces.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
If they take value in enriching the lives of people who need support in many areas, this may be the job for them.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To me, it means that I am very hardworking, and a good role model to people supported. It means having a good, strong relationship with members in order to meet the needs of their communication level. At my home, all of the people we support are Deaf and have strong fluent American Sign Language, and I am Deaf too. I enjoy being involved in their journey, and giving advice when they feel they need an advocate. I always give my full support and make them feel more comfortable. I always show up for work on time, and I’m willing to pick up extra shift as needed. I am a strong supporter for the people we serve, and I practice good teamwork with other staff members. I’ve been working here nearly nine years and the people here are like my family.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I really enjoy taking people supported out into the community and seeing their faces happy and having fun. I enjoy giving advice to members, and watching them learn from me.  I also enjoy cheering up the people we support, and making them laugh.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory is going out in the community with people supported, especially to Kennywood Amusement Park. I enjoy going on the rides with them; it makes them happy.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would say that being a DSP builds up your skills, and you learn a lot when working with people supported. Working with the people we support also helps build your self esteem.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
The DSP title was challenging to me at first because of my past experience with different high-level counseling roles, but I have learned so much since becoming a DSP. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy counseling the people we support and guiding them towards the best opportunities for their future. Helping them live better lives has really opened my eyes.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My best moments have been empowering the people I support, and helping them to develop their abilities and their independent life skills.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I will encourage people with the right skills to step into a DSP role, and to appreciate the opportunities and experiences and it will bring to their team.

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Thank you to the DSPs who participated in this feature, as well as all of the incredible DSPs working each day to help the people we support live life to its fullest potential! It is because of you that RHA continues to be a place #WhereHumansBloom.

If this article has inspired you, or you know someone who may be a good fit in a Direct Support role, please visit rhajobs.com to view available positions near you.