REM Ohio Honors Its Own During National Direct Support Professional Week

AKRON, OH – It is a core belief at REM Ohio, a service provider to adults with developmental disabilities (DD), that everyone should have the same rights and opportunities as all persons, to live, work, and find recreation in the communities where they live. For many individuals with DD, their ability to live fulfilling lives is dependent upon the support they receive from Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in their home, work, and education environments. REM Ohio recognizes the important role DSPs play in supporting the independence and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities into their communities and neighborhoods. In honor of National DSP Week, REM Ohio has selected six employees, from many nominations received throughout the year, to honor as their 2011 Outstanding Direct Support Professionals and Supervisors.

Outstanding Direct Support Professionals, Northern Ohio Region
Willa Edwards, Direct Support Professional
Kay Erbes, Program Coordinator

Outstanding Direct Support Professionals, Eastern Ohio Region
Cindy Squire, Direct Support Professional
Linda Hahn, Program Coordinator

Outstanding Direct Support Professionals, Central Ohio Region
Janet Stoneking, Program Coordinator
Joy Kerek, Area Director

These outstanding employees have provided life changing opportunities to the individuals they serve. This is a shared mission of all Direct Support Professionals, yet some excel in their dedication and level of service to others.  A DSP is a person who assists an individual with a developmental disability to lead a self-directed life and contribute to the community. They often extinguish misguided information and celebrate positive successes that embrace community inclusion. A DSP also acts as a faithful advocate, in assisting the individual they serve to communicating their needs, wants, self expression and life goals. These six employees are a shining example of advocacy, teaching, and development of life-long friendships with the individuals they provide services to.

“DSPs enable our most fragile citizens and their families to live healthy and productive lives as valuable and respected members of their communities,” says Carla Parker, REM Ohio Executive Director. “Our DSPs provide services to over one thousand individuals with disabilities and their families’ everyday throughout the State of Ohio. National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week is but one way we all can demonstrate gratitude for what they unselfishly do for so many,” Parker continued.

If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of those with developmental disabilities or would like to learn more about Direct Support Professionals or services with REM Ohio, please visit our website at www.rem-oh.com