The appalling low wages of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) has created a turnover crisis. Because of these unfair wages, real people are suffering. Not only are we subjecting workers in a noble professional to an unfair standard of living, this crisis jeopardizes the lives of people with disabilities that they serve. Learn more about the importance of DSPs and the turnover crisis below.
Meet Jeanette. Jeanette is the proud mother of Raymund, a young man with a disability. Before seeking assistance, it was difficult for Jeanette and Raymund to do the things they wanted to do. Today, Raymund lives independently thanks to daily supports-help with meals, dressing, medications, mobility, etc.--from dedicated Direct Support Professionals.
View this clip to hear one mother's story about how Direct Support Professionals are improving the quality of life for millions of Americans with disabilities and their families.
Meet Rica. Rica has worked as a Direct Support Professional and manager of Direct Support Professionals since graduating from high school. While proud of her long and rewarding career working with people with disabilities, Rica admits that poor wages, even as a supervisor, have made things difficult. Rica notes that many Direct Support Professionals stay in their jobs for less than a year, wreaking havoc on the stable, consistent supports people with disabilities deserve..." if we keep having these problems with turnover, we will jeopardize the services we provide...people want to come into the field [of direct support], but just can't stay because of the wages. It's really sad."
Please watch Rica’s video to hear an example of the independence people with disabilities realize with the support of committed Direct Support Professionals. Daily activities that many of us take for granted can be extraordinarily meaningful to people who have never had opportunity to live independently.
