Happy Direct Support Professional Week!
Celebrating Our Amazing DSPs.
Celebrating our amazing DSPs on their special week! Now introducing Linda.
For over a decade, Linda has exemplified the highest standards of service, professionalism, and person-centered support. Her unwavering commitment to the individuals she serves is evident in every interaction – marked by empathy, respect, and an intentional focus on each person’s goals, strengths, and individuality.
Linda’s approach to person-centered supports is thoughtful, empowering, and deeply impactful. She takes time to understand the unique needs and aspirations of each individual she supports. By celebrating progress and encouraging autonomy, Linda fosters confidence and long-term growth for those she serves.
Linda also plays a vital role in helping individuals expand their presence in the community. Her contagious enthusiasm and deep-rooted community connections open doors to rich and varied experiences—from simple coffee outings to larger local events. Her presence brings both comfort and encouragement, creating an environment where individuals feel safe exploring new settings. One individual captured Linda’s essence perfectly when they said, “Linda isn’t afraid of anything, and she makes me feel safe.” Beyond participation, Linda champions advocacy and independence in community life. Whether helping someone navigate public transportation, engage in social opportunities, or build daily living skills, she emphasizes dignity, inclusion, and growth.
We thank you, Linda, for the many years of incredible service.
Happy Direct Support Professional Week!
Celebrating Our Amazing DSPs.
Celebrating the work of our awesome DSPs! Let’s hear from Missy.
For the last five years, Missy has served the individuals of her community with unwavering dedication and outstanding commitment. Missy is an exemplary individual whose unwavering dedication to person-centered care, leadership, and innovative problem-solving sets her apart as a true asset to our organization.
Missy’s commitment to understanding each individual’s unique needs and desires is what truly sets her apart. She takes the time to thoroughly review each person’s Individualized Service Plan (ISP), ensuring that she is equipped to offer tailored support that enhances their well-being. Missy cares deeply about the individuals she supports and strives to foster positive, authentic relationships that allow them to feel comfortable, valued, and heard. She has a special ability to understand both their challenges and their aspirations, and she works tirelessly to create opportunities that allow them to grow and thrive.
We spoke with Missy regarding her DSP career, and her insight was invaluable. Missy first mentioned that her drive to help people is what led her on the DSP career path. She finds her work as a DSP rewarding knowing that she gets to meet so many incredible individuals and learn about their life and experiences.
Thank you, Missy, for all your incredible work. You truly hold the Imagine mission close to your heart.
Happy Direct Support Professional Week!
Celebrating Our Amazing DSPs.
Happy Direct Support Professional Week!
Celebrating Our Amazing DSPs.
Celebrating our amazing DSPs during their special week! Next up, Jody Brown!
Jody is new to Imagine, having been a Direct Support Professional in Region 4 for about a year. Jody’s work ethic can be described in two words: Person-Centered. Jody’s approach with individuals is unmatched. He is a dynamic problem solver, extremely trustworthy, and has compassion for everyone around him. He is tentative with all individuals, monitoring likes, dislikes, emotions, and more to be able to provide adequate services for each person. Jody’s ability to speak and address situations in a comforting tone has allowed him to become a client favorite; as many feel he is approachable and trustworthy no matter what.
Jody frequently encourages community activity and helps show the individuals served the importance of forming positive relationships with neighbors, local businesses, and more. He often orchestrates community events, even if it is as simple as walking around town, to help the individuals integrate. He also helps individuals connect with family, friends, and guardians by encouraging positive contact when they are able.
Overall, Jody’s caring and compassionate heart has made him an excellent DSP in a short time frame. His ability to speak with respect, kindness, and sincerity towards his clients has made him a favorite in the office and around the homes. He is an example to his colleagues, with many agreeing he is the kind of peer, friend, and person you would likely want to surround yourself with.
Thank you, Jody, for truly embodying the Imagine mission in all you do.
Happy Direct Support Professional Week!
Celebrating Our Amazing DSPs.
Honoring the work of our amazing DSPs! Next up, Janet.
With over 14 years of dedicated services to individuals with disabilities – eight with our organization and several years prior in another organization – Jan is a shining example of what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and person-centered values. Jan has built a reputation as someone who shows up not just physically, but emotionally and wholeheartedly for the individuals she supports.
Jan believes deeply in the potential of each individual served, and she takes the time to learn not only names, but also the unique needs, preferences, and personalities of the people we serve. She fosters independence, encourages decision-making, and helps build the kind of confidence that stays with a person beyond the moment.
We spoke with Jan to hear more about her perspective as a Direct Support Professional. When asked about what motivated her to become a DSP, Jan replied “I previously worked in nursing, and I missed working with clients. I wanted to get back and help clients see there protentional and help them accomplish their goals.” During her time as a DSP, Jan has accomplished just that, stating that helping clients experience things they never had before is one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.
We thank Jan for the incredible work she has done. Your dedication to our mission is invaluable, and your hard work does not go unnoticed.
Happy Direct Support Professional Week!
Celebrating OUR Amazing DSPs.
Shining light on our incredible DSPs for their special week! Next up, Adrienne.
With remarkable dedication, positive energy, and intentional leadership over the last four years, Adrienne has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the individuals she serves. Her dedication to person-centered care, innovative problem-solving, and mentoring of fellow staff members make her a truly outstanding DSP. In all she does, Adrienne works diligently to create a positive, engaging environment where the people we serve feel valued and empowered.
We wanted to hear more from Andrienne and how she chooses to embody the Imagine mission each day. When asked about a typical day in her role, she explained the importance of empowering individuals to reach individual achievement. This can look like grocery shopping, taking them to appointments, cooking, getting outside, and much more! Andrienne gave us her thoughts on what makes an outstanding Direct Support Professional. She said, “Someone with a good heart and [who] works for the individuals.” She also added that her favorite aspect of being a DSP is watching the individuals she supports reach true happiness.
Thank you, Andrienne, for your incredible work as a Direct Support Professional.
Happy Direct Support Professional Week!
Celebrating Our Amazing DSPs.
Shining light on our amazing DSPs for their special week! Next, we’ll hear about Jenny Kress!
Jenny has been a Direct Support Professional in Region 3 for the last 3 years. Each day, Jenny takes pride in assisting our individuals with meeting their goals, learning new life skills, and connecting with their community. She has been described by her colleagues as “compassionate” and “kind” and always approaches daily tasks and reminders with a smile. She recently transferred to a different location but has quickly established a positive rapport with the members she works with. Jenny is attentive to everyone, assisting them with meal planning, making their grocery lists, and helping them throughout their shopping experience. Jenny takes pride in working with each member to provide a unique and personalized service to each of them. Jenny’s ability to listen and create a substantial plan for the individuals she serves is admirable, and many of her colleagues have noted Jenny as someone to look up to.
We spoke with Jenny to hear more about her experiences as a DSP. When asked what motivated her to step into the role, Jenny replied “I always wanted to be a nurse and thought this would be the best way to help people.” That caregiving spirit is what has motivated Jenny to become the incredible DSP she is today. Her favorite aspect of the job is watching the individuals she serves accomplish their goals, adding that its rewarding nature motivates her to continue her relentless advocacy.
We are thankful for the years of hard work and dedication Jenny has poured into her role as a Direct Support Professional.
Happy Direct Support Professional Week!
Celebrating Our Amazing DSPs.
Sharing the stories of some of our incredible DSPs! Let’s hear from Lori Elsner.
Lori is a true example of workplace dedication; having been with Imagine for 35+ years. She has seen policy changes, leadership changes, mergers, and more, yet one thing with Lori has remained constant: her love for her job and the individuals she serves. It takes a special kind of person to dedicate a life’s work to the caregiving field, and Lori is just that. She has been described by her colleagues as motivated, diligent, focused, compassionate, trustworthy, and a lifelong learner. Some even look up to Lori as a mentor, commenting on her natural ability to teach and lead. Due to this extensive experience, she is often called upon to guide new staff and assist with problem-solving when necessary. In this capacity, Lori is described as soft-spoken, easy to talk to, genuine, and helpful. These characteristics have made her a significant figure in the office and homes.
We sat down with Lori to hear about her experiences as a Direct Support professional. Here’s what she had to say. When asked what motivated her to become a DSP, Lori replied “Knowing the satisfaction one received when helping others at my work. [Knowing] that I can make a difference in their lives by providing safety, security and wellbeing. With the help of training, teamwork and skills, build a bond that gives them independence and accomplishment.” Lori also stated that the most rewarding aspect of her DSP career is the ability to provide a healthier and happier life for the individuals she serves. “Giving them the best quality of life that I can provide is rewarding to me.” When asked about the skillset needed to succeed as a DSP, Lori checks all boxes. “Being supportive, respectful, showing compassion, patience, understanding, communication, teamwork and trainings that build knowledge and confidence in oneself.”
We are thankful for the decades of service Lori has dedicated her life to. It is individuals like her that truly embody the Imagine mission, helping to create a more inclusive society for all.
Gearing Up For DSP Week!
Our final question of the day: Why is the role of DSP so important?
Our answer: DSPs empower people to reach individual achievement across the spectrum of their life. They assist in their independent living journeys, employment opportunities, community integration, goal setting, and much more. They act as advocates not only for the individuals they serve but for the disability service field as a whole. This may look like promoting inclusion in their communities, ensuring rights are met, and enabling those around them to reach their full potential. Without their critical support, many individuals would face significant challenges like loss of independence, social isolation, and increased reliance in institutions.
We are so thankful for the incredible individuals who dedicate their lives to the direct support field. The difference you make in the lives of the individuals you serve and your community is invaluable. You will always be appreciated at Imagine as the heartbeat of our organization. 
Gearing Up For DSP Week!
We’re gearing up for DSP Week next week, so in preparation, we’re covering all things DSP! This week, Imagine is focusing on education and awareness, sharing the ins and outs of the profession and its importance. 
Our next question of the day: What types of training do DSPs go through?
Our answer: Depending on the specifics of the role, training may look different. However, basic DSP training models include CPR and First Aid, behavior management, assisting with daily living activities (such as bathing and hygiene), communication skills, and community integration. Key areas of training often include Health and safety, Behavior Support, Daily Living Skills, Communication, Community Integration, Individual Rights and Self-Determination, and Legal and Ethical Practices. Specific trainings may vary, but continuous learning and skill building is something all DSPs practice!