10-03-2022 12:12pm

WCBDD celebrates Direct Support Professionals with 4th annual Appreciation Dinner

LEBANON, OH -- The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) recently held its 4th annual Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) Appreciation Dinner to honor and celebrate the many contributions made by DSPs towards enhancing the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

DSPs assist people with developmental disabilities in leading lives that are more independent, productive, and integrated, thereby enabling them to fully participate in their communities.

“The work of the DSP does not go unnoticed,” said WCBDD Provider Development Coordinator Lindsay Graves. “The work they do needs to be celebrated,” she added.

Graves is one of two WCBDD employees whose primary responsibility is to ensure DSPs are supported and equipped with the resources necessary to support those they serve. Such responsibilities include training, certification, recruitment, billing, and the annual DSP Appreciation Dinner, referred to by Graves as one of the best parts of her job.

Over 100 DSPs attended the rock-and-roll themed appreciation dinner, entitled: “DSPs Rock,” organized by Graves and her colleague, Angela Brinker.

The evening boasted rock star decorations, a selfie station, agency swag, gift card door prizes, and dinner and dessert prepared by Shoelaces Catering. Additionally, both WCBDD Superintendent Megan Manuel and Ohio Provider Resources Association (OPRA) Operation Director Scott Marks offered sentiments on the integral role DSPs play in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

September 11 – 17, 2022, marked Direct Support Professional Appreciation Week. Throughout the week WCBDD extended its gratitude and acknowledgement toward DSPs, topped off with the DSP Appreciation Dinner.

“I love honoring and recognizing the DSPs in Warren County and hope that they felt seen not only this week, but each and every day,” beamed Graves. “Warren County DSPs really do rock!”