Everyday champions: The true impact of direct support professionals

This piece is sponsored by DakotAbilities.

For Ashley, who works closely with direct support professionals, “my favorite DSP makes me feel important,” she said. “It also helps that she is hilarious.”

As DakotAbilities prepares to celebrate Direct Support Professionals Week from Sept. 7–13, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the extraordinary role DSPs play in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These professionals are the backbone of community support providers and everyday champions for the people who depend on them, bringing patience, compassion and encouragement into every moment of their work.

Direct support professionals do far more than provide essential supports like personal care, meal preparation and medication management. They are teachers, coaches and cheerleaders who bring empathy and a sense of camaraderie to their roles.

“Our DSPs are the heart of what we do,” said Nathan Stallinga, executive director of DakotAbilities. “They aren’t just meeting needs — they’re helping people discover what’s possible for their lives.”

For the people they support, that impact is personal.

“My favorite DSPs help me through my bad days and ask what they can do to help,” said Stacey, another person supported by DSPs.

“They teach me new skills and encourage me. They ask me how I am and really care about my life and accomplishments.”

For Marty, it’s about the daily guidance that keeps him on track.

“My favorite DSP means a lot to me because she’s helpful and gives me reminders to stay on top of things,” he said. “She helps me plan my activities, takes care of my electronics and helps me cook.”

Beyond these individual moments, DSPs serve as bridges to the wider community. They make sure someone gets to work on time, cheer on players during Miracle League baseball games and walk alongside individuals as they volunteer their time and talents. These connections ripple outward, strengthening not only the lives of the people supported but also the neighborhoods, workplaces and civic spaces where they belong.

A critical part of the work is skill-building. DSPs encourage people to try new recipes, practice job skills or master transportation challenges. Each success contributes to greater independence.

“When someone learns a new skill, it’s more than a checkbox on a plan; it’s a step toward greater independence,” Stallinga said. For businesses, these skills often translate into reliable employees who bring unique perspectives and a strong work ethic to the workplace.

DakotAbilities believes in celebrating the champions who make all this possible. Each month, the organization hosts its Living the Mission recognition, giving employees the opportunity to lift up their peers with stories of resilience, teamwork and compassion.

“When staff lift each other up, it’s powerful,” Stallinga said. “It builds a culture where people know they are valued, not just by leadership, but by the colleagues who work alongside them every day.”

The work of DSPs is physically, emotionally and mentally demanding. Too often, it is under-recognized in the broader business world. But at DakotAbilities, one truth is clear: Their impact is immeasurable. By empowering adults with disabilities to live, work and fully participate in society, DSPs strengthen the entire community.

As Stallinga put it: “Supporting DSPs is smart business. Their work makes our communities stronger, and everyone benefits from that strength.”

To learn more about DakotAbilities’ services and career opportunities, visit dakotabilities.org.