Unsung and Overlooked: How Direct Support Professionals Shape Lives Every Day

By: Chris Laubis, CEO of Opengate, Inc.

Each morning at Opengate, I see special moments that remind me of why our work is so important and meaningful. Jennifer, one of our dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), is helping Susan, a resident in one of our community-based homes, get ready for her day by making sure she has her bus pass and knows her route. It’s these small acts of support that help Susan and many others feel more confident and live each day with dignity and purpose.

Jennifer is part of our team at Opengate, with whom I am proud to work. Every day, our DSPs prepare meals, help people get around, teach life skills, offer comfort, and celebrate achievements. They help each person live a meaningful and self-directed life.

DSPs Are Too Often Overlooked Without Recognition

At Opengate, our DSPs help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities grow and feel valued. Through developing daily routines and sustaining an environment of encouragement and compassion, DSPs truly make a difference in many lives.

It may surprise you to know that, even though they do so much, DSPs are not officially recognized by the federal government. Because they do not have their own job category in the federal system, their important role is often overlooked.

The estimated 110,000 DSPs employed by non-profit agencies in New York are currently grouped in with Home Health Aides, which fails to give them credit for their specific skills and duties. Without a unique job classification for DSPs, it is much harder to understand and address issues such as fair pay, worker turnover, and staffing shortages.

These problems affect not only DSPs but also the people and families who rely on them every day. Almost 40% of new Direct Support Professionals quit each year due to low pay, lack of recognition, and insufficient staffing that causes fatigue and burnout on the job. This instability upsets lives and makes it harder for people with disabilities to bond, trust and feel safe in their own homes.

A Policy Solution Is Possible

Congress can help. The Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act(H.R. 6137 / S. 3211) would establish a formal job category for DSPs. This change would let us gather important information and help more people understand this important work. It is a first and very crucial step toward better pay, training, career growth, and improved staff retention.

Support the Work of DSPs: It’s Time to Act

At Opengate, I can see every day how investing in our DSPs leads to stronger community connections, more independence, and better lives for the people we support. H.R. 6137 / S. 3211 is gaining momentum, but Congress still needs to hear from everyone.

Now is the time to act. Please contact your representatives and ask them to support H.R. 6137 / S. 3211. You can also visit Opengate’s website to sign our petition. By recognizing DSPs at the federal level, we honor their work and help secure a more promising future for everyone they support.