RHA Health Services Celebrates DSP Week!
September 14, 2026
We’re celebrating Direct Support Professional Week (September 13-19, 2026) by highlighting several RHA DSPs, nominated as outstanding team members by their coworkers.
Venisha Frazier, Direct Support Professional in GA
“Being a DSP is more than just a job. This position allows you to make a real difference in the lives of people who need a little more assistance. You get to give them a chance to meet their goals and enjoy life to the best of their potential.”
What do you love about being a DSP? “I like being able to make a positive difference in someone’s life. I enjoy building relationships with the individuals I’m supporting and helping them with everyday tasks.”
What is your favorite memory of working with RHA? “I love connecting with individuals we support and coming together with coworkers to communicate, laugh, and share memories about the people we support.”
Venisha through the eyes of her team: “Venisha ensures the people she supports receive healthy, well-balanced meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with nutritious snacks. She actively involves them in meal planning by offering choices and encouraging independence in their daily lives. One of Venisha’s greatest strengths is her creativity and patience. We supported an individual who was very limited in the foods they would eat, but Venisha took the time to gradually introduce new meals in a positive and encouraging way. Because of her efforts, they expanded their eating habits, developed a healthier appetite, and became more willing to try nutritious foods.” – Shanta Luster, Group Home Supervisor
Jocland Johnson, Direct Support Professional in GA
“I started out being a DSP because I had previous experience in medical facilities — mostly as a medical scribe or transporter. I often do part-time work as a substitute teacher with special needs children of all ages, so this job was a great fit for me. I wanted to be a part of a community where I could grow while building close friendly relationships with the people I served. I like helping people accomplish their daily goals and set new ones. Working with individuals with disabilities has taught me patience and to value life itself.”
What do you love about being a DSP? “I have a strong desire to do meaningful work and to help people with disabilities live independent, fulfilling lives.”
What is your favorite memory of working with RHA? “Every day I make new memories, whether we go out to community events or just simply listen to the people we support tell stories to help time pass by.”
Jocland through the eyes of her team: “Jocland is a wonderful person with a great spirit! She loves helping and takes joy in providing love and understanding. She is a great employee and very dependable for all of the people we serve.” – Erica Jackson, Direct Support Professional
Heather Montanez, Direct Support Professional in PA
“I am a wife, mother of four, grandmother of four, caregiver for my mother-in-law, and I am a huge animal lover with two amazing pitbulls; I never stop working! As a DSP, I remember that a small task can be so meaningful and make someone’s day — whether I’m helping with a phone call, playing a card game, assisting with a shower, even helping put on those fitted sheets… if it makes them happy, then I’m happy.”
What do you love about being a DSP? “I genuinely want the best for the individuals in our care. Every resident has been through difficult times, and when they know they can depend on me, showing up and supporting them means so much to me.”
What is your favorite memory of working with RHA? “I love when our team comes together, even in unfortunate and unexpected situations, and makes impossible things happen for the people we support!”
Heather through the eyes of her team: “When we had to relocate, Heather did everything she could to support our staff and people served. She made the entire process less stressful than it was. Heather spent her days off supporting our administrator with anything she needed. She even took the time to make homemade food for the people we support. Heather is a rockstar!” – Adriana Ortiz, Direct Support Professional
Brianna Myers, Direct Support Professional in TN
What do you love about being a DSP? “I love my position as a DSP because it gives us the opportunity to get our own experience with the individuals we support. We believe in them and make them feel like they have people they can lean on.”
What is your favorite memory of working with RHA? “My favorite memory as a DSP was the Special Olympics! It gave the people we serve a day to laugh and compete in runs and walks, just like they see on their television at home.”
Brianna through the eyes of her team: “Brianna has taken the initiative to learn all about each of the people we support — not just in the main home she works at, but others as well. When you see Brianna, you see how she truly cares and wants what is best for those she supports. She is a true advocate and enjoys providing new opportunities through community outings and new ways to learn daily living skills. Brianna is dedicated to her job and has shown that over and over again. She has also flexible and a helping hand more times than I can count.” – Brianna Berger, IDD Qualified Professional ICF
Charlotte Sumpter, Direct Support Professional in NC
“RHA has given me the opportunity to grow, learn, and be part of a team that is dedicated to making a positive difference. I am truly thankful for the experiences, friendships, and memories I have gained along the way. To the individuals we support: thank you for trusting me and allowing me to be a part of your lives. You have taught me just as much as I hope I have helped you.”
What do you love about being a DSP? “What I love most about being a DSP is the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. Being a DSP is more than just a job. It is about building relationships, providing support, encouraging independence, and being there for individuals as they work toward their goals. The smiles, laughter, progress, and special moments shared along the way are what make this career so rewarding.”
What is your favorite memory of working with RHA? “My favorite memories come from the relationships I have built with both the individuals we support and my coworkers. There have been so many moments of laughter, growth, and teamwork that I will always cherish. Seeing someone accomplish something they have been working toward, no matter how big or small, is a reminder of why I love what I do.”
Charlotte through the eyes of her team: “Charlotte’s commitment extends far beyond her assigned responsibilities. In addition to her role at RHA, she operates her own catering business. When the unit celebrates special occasions, she generously donates her time, cooking expertise, and catering equipment to help make those events memorable for everyone. Her willingness to give back reflects her generosity, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to both the individuals she supports and her coworkers. After more than two decades of outstanding service, Charlotte exemplifies the values of RHA and is truly deserving of this recognition.” – Tammy Oliver, IDD Vocational Center Supervisor
Thank you to the DSPs who participated in this feature, as well as all 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 “Where Humans Bloom.”
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.
