RHA Health Services Celebrates Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) as Part of DSP Week 2022!

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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.

DSP Week Spotlight: Gabby G. in TN

Gabby has been a DSP with RHA for two and a half years. She has been in the professional care field for eight years.

What do you love most about being a DSP?

“I love the relationships I’ve formed with different individuals — each one is unique. I love everything about them… I love what I do. I love going into work because even if one of the people I support is having a bad day — everyone has bad days, so we’re just going to work through it. It’s so rewarding.”

What do you think the most important part of your job is?

“Helping [the people I support] to realize that they can do anything that they want to. Some of them may have to try harder at it, but the encouragement I can give them to help them reach their goals and see them light up when they meet them is something special.”

What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a DSP at RHA?

“It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and patience to do this job. If you can get through all of that, though, it’s one of the best, most rewarding things you can experience.”

 

Gabby was nominated by Melissa Bartlett, IDD Administrator in TN, who said:

“She always goes above and beyond for [the people we support]. Gabby has also spent several weekends coming to the assistance of staff in other locations. Even though she was not as familiar with the unit/home/persons supported in those locations, they all had nothing but wonderful things to say about her when she arrived and worked there.”

DSP Week Spotlight: Hassan M. in PA

Hassan is a Recovery Support Professional with Salisbury Behavioral Health, a Division of RHA Health Services in Pennsylvania. This is his first direct support role, and October will mark his first work anniversary with the company.

What do you love most about being a DSP?

“I find it very rewarding, and it’s definitely not boring.”

What do you think the most important part of your job is?

“I think the most important part of my job is focus. I have to be aware of what I’m doing. It’s important to be cautious.”

What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a DSP at RHA?

“It is a very rewarding position. It’s a very fun job, or at least I find it to be one. I work with a really great team and everybody I work with is genuinely a team player.”

Hassan was nominated by Ashley Blum, Personal Care Home Administrator in PA, who said:

“Without Hassan’s help since October, I don’t know where we’d be. Hassan constantly steps up and helps when no one else wants to and does it with a smile. He still comments how happy he is to be here and volunteered to work overnight full time for the 12 weeks our primary overnight staff is out on leave. He is amazing and I am grateful every day for him!”

 

 

DSP Week Spotlight: Carrie S. in NC

Carrie S. has been a DSP with RHA for many years.

What do you love most about being a DSP?

“The unique challenges and opportunities as well as the positive impact I make helping each individual achieve their goals of working towards independence makes every day fulfilling and rewarding…this is what I love most about being a DSP.”

What do you think the most important part of your job is?

“The most important part of my job is helping each individual conquer the daily obstacles and challenges they face to live a deep, meaningful, and fulfilling life.”

What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a DSP at RHA?

“This job isn’t for the halfhearted. This is so much more than a job. You will have the opportunity to make a real difference and contribution in the lives of others. This job is so rewarding and filled with so much love and a true purpose of giving back in this world. It’s far from predictable — I enjoy never knowing what each day will hold. If you’re patient, adaptable, understanding, loving, dedicated, and passionate, then come join our team and discover a much more meaningful purpose in life, filled with endless rewarding days.”

Carrie was nominated by Michelle Robertson, IDD Operations Vice President in NC, who said:

“While Carrie goes above and beyond to help out from a coverage perspective, she is also such a strong advocate. Not just about things the people she supports need, but in making sure that they get to have opportunities. She thinks outside of the box and ensures that we have supplies necessary for them to try new things, go places, do things. She is the epitome of what we look for in a staff member and has all the qualities that you don’t necessarily read in the job description, but that make her the perfect person for the role.”

DSP Week Spotlight: Becca S. in NC

Becca has been a DSP with RHA for over a year. This is her first professional DSP role.

What do you love most about being a DSP?

“Helping take care of the guys every day. If I can bring a smile to their face, then I’m doing something right.”

What do you think the most important part of your job is?

“Being able to be there for the guys.”

What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a DSP at RHA?

“They need to put not themselves first, but others first. They need to be able to put their feelings aside. A lot of these folks have intellectual disabilities, and we need to be their ears, eyes, and voice. For most of them, we are the only voice they might have. We need to be able to be that for them.”

Becca was nominated by Cindy Myers, IDD Operations Vice President in NC, who said:

“Becca takes each day and makes the best of it. She is an amazing advocate for the health and safety of the people we support, always looking for ways to make their lives better. Becca radiates positivity and passion throughout her workday. Becca truly wants to learn and rise to new challenges so she can be the best support she can be for the people supported at Wildcat.”

DSP Week Spotlight: Theresa R. in PA

Theresa has been a direct support professional with Growth Horizons, a Division of RHA Health Services in PA, for 18 years.

What do you love most about being a DSP?

“I’ve done it my whole life. I like the hands-on aspects of the job. I like watching the individuals be able to accomplish their goals and complete them, and to experience the joy with them when they do. It’s just something I’ve always enjoyed. There’s just a joy in working with people that you get to watch grow, and accomplish things, and do things—they become family to me. It’s not just a job.”

What do you think the most important part of your job is?

“Protecting my individuals, providing them with what they need, taking care of all their daily needs, and making a safe environment for them.”

What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a DSP at RHA?

“Come in with an open mind and know that there’s just not a simple job description. Whatever’s handed to you, you have to do it. It’s not ‘you work so many hours, then you go home,’ you know? Be open to change. You know, I’ve been with my individuals for a long time, and they’ve changed—they’ve aged. You have to go along with the aging process.”

Theresa was nominated by Beth Davidson and Nicholas Whitfield. Nicholas said:

“[Theresa] has been with us for 18 years. During the pandemic, she has made the health and safety of the people she serves her highest priority. She wouldn’t think of calling out, and never has. Her three individuals that she serves have some extensive medical needs, she takes their care very seriously. Amidst all this you would think she would voice a complaint or two, but she has only said how lucky she was to be able to serve these individuals during this time.”

DSP Week Spotlight: Janet L. in NC

Janet has been with RHA since 1994! This is the only DSP role she’s ever held.

What do you love most about being a DSP?

“I love assisting others with doing things that they wouldn’t be able to do by themselves. I love establishing a rapport with them, so when they hear me, they smile.”

What do you think the most important part of your job is?

“Making sure that we provide all-inclusive support for people. I have a lot of important things though—more than one. Other important things include making sure they eat properly, and their medications are administered properly.”

What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a DSP at RHA?

“It’s a good job, and you learn a lot. You have to be patient. You have to be a leader, not a follower. You have to take initiative, and you have to be sociable. I enjoy my job. Never take anything to work with you — if you’re having a bad day, the people we serve will feed off that. So always go to work with a positive attitude, even if you’re having a bad day.”

Janet was nominated by Jan Herring, IDD Operations Vice President in NC, and Samantha Scott, IDD Administrator in NC, who said:

“Janet is passionate about the people she assists every day, and her passion is demonstrated with every task completed and every outcome achieved. Janet readily shares her vast store of knowledge and experience with coworkers as well as new hires for other homes. Janet is one of the employees that stepped up during this trying year and displayed her commitment to the people we support and the company.”

DSP Week Spotlight: Amanda A. in GA

Amanda A. has been a Direct Support Professional with RHA in Georgia since July 2020. This is her first DSP role.

What do you love most about being a DSP?

“It’s the people I support. Trying to put it into any other words…. I really don’t even know how. It’s one of their laughs, it’s the way the other one has to have a hug any time she sees me. It’s them and the joy that they bring to me.”

What do you think the most important part of your job is?

“For me, it’s treating the individuals as if they were my family—the way I would want my family to be treated if they lived in a home like this.”

What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a DSP at RHA?

“It takes a special kind of heart [to be a DSP.] It’s not for someone who just thinks that it’s an easy paycheck. It’s a job for someone that really cares.”

Amanda was nominated by Debbie Stehling, IDD Operations Vice President in Georgia, who said:

“Amanda consistently goes out of her way to make those we serve and support at RHA feel empowered and are cared for every second of every day. Amanda is compassionate and sincere in all interactions with those she supports, she puts them first with a willing and cheerful smile. Through the day-to-day interactions Amanda has with people supported, it is evident how much she cares for the individuals we serve at RHA. We are so thankful for Amanda and her love for supporting those we serve.”

Two RHA Direct Support Professionals Recognized by The Council on Quality and Leadership During DSP Week

Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, September 8 to 14, 2019

During Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, we thank and celebrate all the Direct Support Professionals in our RHA family, who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of people with intellectual, physical and developmental disabilities every day. Direct Support Professional Recognition Weeks is presented by the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), The Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL) and the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP).

This year, The Council on Quality and Leadership has recognized two RHA Direct Support Professionals who are going above and beyond to support the people they serve in setting and meeting goals and pursuing their dreams. Read excerpts of their stories below and click the links to read the full articles on the CQL website.

Beth Triplett: A Positive Source of Support

Beth Triplett works as a Direct Support Professional for RHA Health Services, a CQL-accredited organization providing a broad range of person-centered, integrated, and high-quality supports to thousands of people in Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

Beth has used the Personal Outcomes Measures® as a valuable tool to gain a better understanding of individually defined outcomes and then use that information to help support opportunities for a more meaningful day. Beth has made such a difference in so many lives, one in particular being Tammy.

Read Beth and Tammy’s full story on CQL’s website.

 

Carla Garrision Greene: Outcomes on the Ballot

Carla Garrision Greene never tells the people she supports that they can’t pursue their dreams. Instead, Carla works to empower people to make their dreams come true. Carla is a Direct Support Professional for RHA Health Services, a CQL-accredited organization providing a broad range of person-centered, integrated, and high-quality supports to thousands of people in Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

During a Personal Outcome Measures® interview with Mary, a person receiving supports through RHA Health Services, Carla discovered Mary’s passion for the election process. After observing campaign activities and at one point being turned away from a voting site, Mary made clear in her interview that she wanted to vote in local and national elections.

Read Carla and Tammy’s full story on CQL’s website.

 

 


Interested in pursuing a career as a Direct Support Professional with RHA?
Visit our Direct Support Jobs web page for full details.

The Council on Quality and Leadership is a leader in working with human service organizations and systems to continuously define, measure, and improve quality of life and quality of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, psychiatric disabilities, older adults, and youth. CQL offers accreditation, training, certification, research, and consultation services to agencies. RHA is proud to be a CQL-accredited organization.