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by | Sep 8, 2025 |

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.

by | Sep 5, 2025 |

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 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. 💙

by | Sep 4, 2025 |

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!

by | Sep 3, 2025 |

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: When did the role of Direct Support Professional become formally recognized?
Our answer: “The role of Direct Support Professional gradually gained traction in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but the profession was often referred to as “caregiving” rather than support professional. Due to the nature of the DSP role, the caregiving term is too vague, as it does not allow space for ever-changing disability services. As the shift began from institutional care to community-based services and supports in the late 90’s-early 2000’s the term “Direct Support Professional” began to take off. In 2003, the U.S Congress passed the Direct Support Professional Recognition Resolution, which defined DSPs and recognized their vital role in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Most recently in 2024, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act (S. 1332). This legislation represents crucial progress toward establishing a standard occupational classification (SOC) for direct support professionals (DSPs).
The bill urges the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to create a unique SOC code specifically for DSPs.” (From ANCOR American Network of Community Options and Resources)
In conclusion, the role of Direct Support Professional is ever-changing! The progress that has been made over the years is outstanding, and we have incredible community advocates to thank for it.

by | Sep 2, 2025 |

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 skills do DSPs need?
Our answer: It is important for DSPs to possess patience, empathy, communication, and problem-solving skills. They need to be great listeners, flexible, and able to think on their feet. It’s crucial for them to be observant of verbal and nonverbal communication, because being detail-oriented helps them catch potential issues early on. DSPs often benefit from continuous learning and training to make sure they are up to date on best practices. And of course, a smile and a positive attitude are always welcome! 😄

by | Sep 2, 2025 |

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. 💙🫂
Kicking off the week is our question of the day: What exactly is a Direct Support Professional?
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) help individuals with disabilities live their best lives by assisting with daily tasks, offering emotional support, fostering independence, setting goals, community integration, and much more! DSPs work in various settings, including homes, Day Habilitation Centers, or community centers, to name a few. They assist in things such as personal care, medication management, and social activities. They’re all about empowering individual achievement! DSPs are also vital in advocating for the rights and needs of the individuals they support. They’re there to help foster understanding and promote inclusion in their communities. It’s a career that makes a real difference in people’s lives! 🌟

by | Aug 27, 2025 |

Impact Stories: Phil

There is power in community and strength in teamwork. While intervieweing Phil, an indiviudal receiving services from Imagine, we saw just how impactful these supports are. We are grateful to have heard from Phil, as his story-as well as many others-continues to motivate us to empower individual achievement.

Phil is a life-long Iowa resident and has spent many of his years with Imagine. During his time, he has made a significant impact on his community, deepened his love of fishing, and formed lasting relationships with members of his care team. When asked about his current living arrangements, Phil explained, “I’m totally happy with everything I have now…It’s my home.” He expressed that the level of care and comfortability provided by his team has made a significant impact in his life, and he is appreciative of everyone in his circle. “I’m really happy with my team. I like the way things are set up now.” Of course, it wouldn’t be a conversation with Phil if a couple of jokes weren’t cracked. “We [Phil and his team] sneak off and let everyone know that we are!” The ruminating laughter of Phil’s team and other Imagine members was proof of the direct impact made on the lives of individuals at Imagine the Possibilities. We thank Phil for his time and for the laughter we shared.

by | Jul 25, 2025 |

Unlocking Potential. Unleashing Joy. 

Day Habilitation

Day Habilitation is intended to grow and develop life skills for people with disabilities. The primary focus of this service is to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to learn and develop skills necessary to become and stay impactful members of their communities. This service gives individuals the opportunity to explore skills that interest them and encourages growth from their current ability level. Day Habilitation is an organized program of activities designed to foster the acquisition of skills, while building positive social behavior and interpersonal competence, greater independence, and personal choice. Here, individuals can be active and access their community through communication and socialization activities.  

Furthermore, Day Habilitation services enhance the individual’s intellectual function, physical and emotional health and development, language and communication development, cognitive functioning, socialization, community integration, functional skill development, behavior management, responsibility, self-direction, daily living activities, self-advocacy skills, or mobility.  

 Day Habilitation Services are developed through an Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) for each person served. The IDT is comprised of the individual receiving services, service providers, Case Manager, family members, and anyone the individual deems important towards their success. Through discussion, the team designs goals and objectives based upon the desires, abilities, and specific needs of the individual receiving services. Service schedules are based on the needs of the individual, and they are monitored by the Community Integration Coordinator/Programmer who communicates with the individual’s Case Manager and guardian. 

 

by | Jul 24, 2025 |

Real Jobs. Real Support. Real Results.

Individual Placement and Support 

Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is the most extensively studied model of employment services for people with mental illnesses. IPS is individualized and focuses on a person’s strengths, using a multidisciplinary approach involving the individual’s mental health team. Its core belief is that work promotes wellness and recovery. Evidence shows people in IPS attain employment faster, hold jobs longer, and work more hours. IPS is more effective than alternative vocational approaches regardless of a variety of client background factors (e.g., ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status). (Iowa IPS Research).  

IPS is broken into 8 core practice principles, each playing an important role in the overall success of the individual. 

Zero Exclusion: Eligibility is based on choice and interest in working. People are not excluded because of diagnosis, recent hospitalizations, criminal justice history, or perceived issues with work readiness. 

Worker Preferences: IPS Specialists and job seekers establish preference of job type, wage, distance, hours worked/work schedule, work environment, and job supports. The job search is based on these individualized preferences, strengths, and experiences, and not on a pool of readily available jobs.  

Rapid Job Search: As soon as a job seeker is referred, services start. Waitlists are discouraged. IPS Specialists and job seekers begin looking for work within a month of service provision. 

Benefits Planning: Certified Work Incentives Counselors (CWICs) are available for clients interested in knowing how their benefits are affected by working. Incentives for workers with disabilities are also shared. 

Integrated Services: IPS Specialists, mental health practitioners and vocational rehabilitation counselors work together to help job seekers achieve recovery goals through successfully supporting employment. 

Systematic Job Development: IPS Specialists build relationships with employers based on the job seekers’ preferences to learn the business needs, environment, and job requirements to make successful job matches. 

Competitive Employment: A full or part time job in the community earning minimum wage or higher, open to everyone, where coworkers don’t necessarily have disabilities. 

Time-Unlimited Supports: Supports are provided by IPS staff for as long as the worker wants or needs, typically up to a year after becoming employed. Natural and clinical supports are built up in this time for support upon successful completion of IPS. 

IPS empowers people living with mental illnesses, substance use disorders, and other disabilities to work at jobs they choose and enjoy. Benefits of IPS Employment include increased income, improved self-esteem, increased social and quality of life, better control of symptoms, reduced substance use, and reduced hospitalization. 

In 28 studies, IPS was successful for 55% of people, versus 25% for other employment programs. This means people with mental illness or co-occurring disorders find jobs they prefer in the community in which they prefer and/or live more frequently than in any other employment program.  

Imagine the Possibilities offers IPS Services in Washington, Louisa, Jefferson, Henry, Des Moines, and Lee County.  

by | Jul 23, 2025 |

Your Home. Your Community. Your Care.

Home and Community Based Services 

Home and Community Based Services, often referred to as HCBS, is a community for individuals with disabilities to live, grow relationships, and maximize independence. Our focus is to encourage and equip individuals to reach individual achievement. Staying closely connected with an individual’s Care Team can help define what maximized independence looks like for their abilities, needs, and goals. The skills developed in an HCBS setting help individuals learn how to take care of their home, cook healthy meals, budget their resources, prioritize personal health and safety, and be actively involved in their own community. 

Home and Community Based Services are developed through an Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), which consists of the individual receiving services, the service providers, family members, and anyone the individual deems important towards their success. The team then designs goals and objectives based on the needs and desires of the individual receiving services. These services are monitored though administrative level staff. These team members supervise the direct support staff and participate in the delivery of services through coordination of IDT meetings, counseling, medical appointments, etc. Service schedules are based on the needs and goals of the individual.