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.
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.
A healthcare executive with almost 30 years of experience in both growing and managing community-based healthcare companies, Mickey’s career started as a CPA and CFO. During these years, he managed all financial aspects of the company, along with acquisitions and legislative efforts.
Jerry Howell, 
Describe your role with RHA and overall industry experience.
Tell us about a time you made a difference in someone’s life through your work.
We truly have the best nurses. They demonstrate exceptional compassion and dedication, going above and beyond to ensure we’re providing high-quality care for the people we serve.
B
