Celebrating the DSPs Who Make a Difference Every Day
Honoring the People Behind the Everyday Moments
During DSP Appreciation Week, we’re taking a moment to recognize the Direct Support Professionals who show up every day to support, encourage, advocate for, and stand alongside the people we serve.
Being a DSP is about much more than completing daily tasks. It’s about building trust, celebrating accomplishments, listening when someone needs to be heard, encouraging independence, and being there through both the challenges and the joyful moments.
Across REACH, our DSPs make a difference in countless ways, often through moments that may seem small but mean so much to the people they support.
This week, we’re honored to share a few words of appreciation from the people and teams who see that dedication every day.
A Message of Appreciation from Mendenhall Woods
Dear Mendenhall Woods staff,
The residents at Mendenhall Woods and I would like to take this time to express our appreciation for all the hard work you do! When faced with daily challenges, you all support and work together to help the residents achieve their daily goals and live their best lives. Whether that's assisting them with preparing their meals, encouraging them stay on task with their daily routines, being a good listener and advocate when they are frustrated, sad or having a hard time expressing how they feel.
Your teamwork and dedication to the residents show everyday through the residents when they're excited to tell me all the fun things they did on DH or when they finished their chores for the day. You are truly the backbone of this company!! Thank you for all you do!!!!
Sincerely,
AnJo, NiJo, JaLe, KaEd and Chelsea Kelly
The Heart of Steelhead House
Sometimes it's the little things that make the biggest difference, and the team at Steelhead House does those things every single day.
A huge thank you to Chris, Vey, Feng, Kiwi, and Don for the care, dedication, and heart you bring to the people we support. You consistently go above and beyond, whether that means picking up an extra shift, staying late when needed, or simply taking the time to make someone's day a little brighter.
Because of your commitment, Steelhead House is more than just a home. It's a safe, fun, and welcoming place where individuals feel supported, valued, and cared for. The long hours and extra effort you put in never go unnoticed, and it's clear that everything you do comes from a genuine desire to help others live their best lives.
Thank you for all that you do. Your compassion, teamwork, and dedication make a real difference every day, and we are incredibly grateful to have each of you on our team. 💙 Chris, Vey, Feng, Kiwi, and Don, thank you for being the heart of Steelhead House!
Kim Jones
Steelhead Group Home Manager
Recognizing the Mark Alan Team
Every DSP brings their own strengths, personality, and commitment to the people they support. At Mark Alan, three team members were recognized for the meaningful ways they contribute each day.
April Hotchkiss
April is one of the residents' strongest advocates. She consistently encourages them to step outside their comfort zones by trying new activities and foods, often leading to positive experiences and growth.
Agnes Elizarde
Agnes has been a dedicated member of the Mark Alan team for many years. She regularly steps in to cover shifts and support our 24-hour staff, helping ensure consistent care and coverage. Her flexibility and willingness to help whenever needed are greatly appreciated
Harmony Ryan
Harmony builds strong, meaningful relationships with each resident and makes every interaction personal. We can always count on her to help make birthday celebrations and house parties fun and memorable for everyone.
Cassandra Bulard
Group Home Manager
Thank You to Our DSPs
These messages are just a small glimpse into the impact DSPs make every day.
From helping someone work toward a personal goal to creating a memorable birthday celebration, from providing encouragement during a difficult moment to stepping in when extra support is needed, DSPs are present for the everyday moments that help people live with greater choice, independence, and well-being.
Their work requires patience, flexibility, compassion, teamwork, and a commitment to seeing each person for who they are and what they can achieve.
To every Direct Support Professional at REACH: thank you.
Thank you for showing up.Thank you for listening.Thank you for advocating.Thank you for encouraging independence.And thank you for being part of the everyday moments that make a difference.
Happy DSP Appreciation Week!
