DSP APPRECIATION WEEK CELEBRATION

Last September, we took a moment to honor the incredible individuals who make a difference every single day — our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Whether offering a steady hand, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement, DSPs are the unsung heroes helping pave the way to greater independence, dignity, and inclusion.

In celebration of DSP Appreciation Week, we held our first Staff Appreciation Drawing and presented gifts to all our DSPs as a heartfelt thank-you for their dedication. Congratulations to Jennifer Bellman, the winner of our drawing!

The celebration continued at Whale Park with a joyful DSP Appreciation Event, where our DSPs came together to enjoy good food, great company, and a well-deserved moment of recognition. Thank you to all our DSPs — your compassion and care truly make a world of difference at REACH!

DSP Appreciation Week Spotlight

Felicitas Roman Cruz, DSP - Support Services

“Fely is an exceptional Service Provider and Employee of REACH. Fely is always willing to collaborate on issues, follows directions, and is about as person centered as you can be in this line of work. She is a model employee, and if I could clone her, I would.” - Tim Wilson, Support Service Manager

Anthony Lopez, DSP Lead - Mendenhall Woods

“Anthony goes above and beyond to help the residents at MW, his co-workers and I. He comes into work every day with a positive attitude and a smile. He has easily built a great relationship with the residents and they look forward to the days that Anthony works. Anthony is also a huge advocate for the residents and encourages to speak up for themselves and teaches them how when they struggle.” 

- Group Home Manager

Sequoia Kasnick, DSP - Northland Group Home

“Sequoia is an amazing worker. Her work ethic is phenomenal. She is punctual, highly motivated, and very dependable. The care that she provides is up and above what is required of her. She does not show up to simply work her shift, she shows up to pour love and compassion into the individual that she serves. ” - Group Home Manager

Matthew Talley, Job Coach - Supported Employment

“Matthew has always been a huge asset to the SE team. He consistently does his notes on time. Is always willing to cover a last minute shift or train a new employee. He is informative of things that happen out in the community. He is eager to do more for the department which shows great initiative” - Laurel Stafford

Jennifer Bellman, DSP - Glacier Woods

“Jen goes above and beyond. She accomplishes things that are well above what is required of her, with no prompting at all. She takes initiative. When there are a lot of things that need to be completed for the house to run smoothly, such as calling in/picking up meds, doing the Costco/Fred's shopping, picking up shifts that become available last minute, taking/picking up individuals at work, etc., 

She ensures that all of our individuals are well taken care of, taken to appointments when needed, and she advocates for the individuals to the best of her ability.” - Group Home Manager

Harmony Ryan,DSP - Mark Alan

“Harmony brings so much value to the Mark Alan team. Despite being part-time, she consistently goes above and beyond, stepping in wherever needed to ensure the individuals we support receive the best care possible. Her reliability, positive attitude, and team-first mindset make her a true asset. We’re incredibly grateful for her dedication and flexibility” - Group Home Manager

April Hotchkiss, DSP - Mark Alan

“April is a true team player who consistently encourages the individuals we support to advocate for themselves, building confidence and independence. She’s always ready to take on hands-on projects like building and installing shelves to improve someone’s living space. Though she’s part-time, April’s dedication is full-time. Her willingness to step in and fill scheduling gaps makes her an essential and deeply valued member of the team.”

You Make the Difference: A Thank You to DSP

You show up with heart, with hands that uplift,

Each day that you give is a powerful gift.

With patience and strength, and compassion so true,

The world is much better because it has you.

You listen, you guide, you teach and defend,

You’re more than support — you're a mentor, a friend.

You help others rise, take steps they once feared,

You celebrate victories, wipe away tears.

Through long days and nights, in silence or cheer,

You are the constant that stays ever near.

In every small act, your kindness is loud —

You make quiet impact that stands out so proud.

So here's to the hands that gently empower,

The hearts that show care every minute, each hour.

This week we salute you, but truthfully too —

Every day, DSPs, the world thanks you.