Celebrating Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week

Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week: September 8–14, 2025

Every day, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) - also known as our professional providers! - show up with dedication, patience, and compassion to make life better for individuals with disabilities and their families. They are the hands and hearts behind habilitation, respite, and attendant care, supporting independence, building skills, and providing comfort when it’s needed most.

From September 8–14, we join the nationwide celebration of Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week. It’s a time to pause and honor the invaluable work DSPs do all year long.

Why Providers Matter

Providers aren’t just caregivers - they are teachers, advocates, mentors, and often extended family. They empower members to reach goals, participate in their communities, and live fuller, more independent lives. Their work may look like helping a child learn new communication skills, supporting an adult with daily routines, or simply being a steady, trusted presence for a family.

Voices of Appreciation

Families and members often describe providers in one word: life-changing. Here are some of the ways their impact shines:

• “Our provider has become like family. She celebrates every small victory with us, and those moments matter more than words can say.”

• “He helped my son gain confidence to try new things. Now, he looks forward to outings instead of feeling anxious.”

• “I can finally take a breath, knowing my daughter is cared for by someone who truly understands her needs.”

These stories reflect what we hear again and again: professional providers make the impossible feel possible!

Despite their essential role, providers often go unrecognized. This week is our chance to shine a light on their commitment and say thank you. Their work requires skill, creativity, and resilience. Every smile, every breakthrough, every step toward independence is shaped by their efforts.

How to Celebrate DSPs This Week

• Say thank you. A heartfelt note, message, or even a simple “I appreciate you” goes a long way.

• Share stories. Let others know how a provider has made a difference in your life.

• Advocate. Support policies and programs that value and uplift providers as professionals.

To every Kindness Evolves provider: we see you, we appreciate you, and we celebrate you - not just this week, but every week. Your work changes lives in ways big and small, and families couldn’t do it without you.

Happy Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week! 💙