NorthPointe Celebrates Direct Support Professional Recognition Week

[ZION, IL] –From Sept. 10-16, NorthPointe joined in on the national celebration of Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week, honoring the tens of thousands of workers who enable individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be healthy, safe, valued, and participating members of their communities.

“Through their compassionate care, DSPs give life to the programs and services that are available at NorthPointe. It’s important for our employees to understand the vital support they provide to individuals,” stated Linda Balsamo, VP, NorthPointe Human Resources. “Direct Support Professional Recognition Week was one way that we could continue to recognize their hard-work and dedication, but we truly appreciate all that they do for our organization all year-round.” NorthPointe celebrated their DSPs with daily raffle prizes, appreciation activities, and an employee car wash staffed by executive team members.

Direct Support Professional Recognition Week is part of the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) National Advocacy Campaign. “DSP Recognition Week is one way we try to say, “thank you” to the people who turn the intentions of our laws and regulations written to provide opportunities for people with disabilities into actions,” said Barbara Merrill, CEO of ANCOR. “It’s also a very important reminder to our legislators and policymakers that this workforce is essential, and their wages and training deserve attention as states set rates for IDD services.”
Recently, Illinois approved a state budget that provided a 75-cent per hour raise for Direct Support Professionals. This is one step forward, but there is still a lot that our communities can do to ensure this issue becomes a priority, and to help DSPs receive the recognition that they deserve. In conjunction with the They Deserve More campaign, NorthPointe Resources hopes to continue moving forward with progress. To learn more about what you can do, visit, www.theydeservemore.com.

To learn more about all of the work DSPs do, and to apply for available positions at NorthPointe Resources visit, www.northpointeresources.org/home/career-opportunities

Established in 1953, NorthPointe Resources is a premier provider of a full range of award-winning programs for people with disabilities and/or mental illness living in northern Illinois, supporting approximately 500 people annually. To learn more please visit www.northpointeresources.org.

NorthPointe Resources
3441 Sheridan Road
Zion Illinois 60099
8478721700

This release was published on openPR.