Celebrating the Heart & Soul of CBS: Direct Support Professional Week

At Community Based Services (CBS), the week of September 8-14 holds special significance. It's a time when we come together to honor and celebrate the incredible individuals who form the backbone of our organization - our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).

Recognizing Dedication and Innovation

DSP Week is an annual national event that shines a well-deserved spotlight on the dedicated and innovative team members who tirelessly support individuals with autism, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. Often, their profound impact can go unnoticed, but their role is immeasurable.

“One of the most remarkable aspects of a DSP’s role is their ability to build genuine and trusting relationships with those they support. These connections are the cornerstone of empowering individuals to share their dreams, set goals, and work towards achieving them,” says Director of Residential Services Keith Segalini. 

Going Above and Beyond

Our DSPs go above and beyond, working around the clock to ensure that each person receives the highest level of care and support. They are the unsung heroes in the journey of those they support to live their fullest potential.

Our DSPs have even taken the people they support on epic vacations, so that they may enjoy life and create lasting memories. For instance, this past summer, staff brought people to Rocking Horse Ranch for horseback riding, swimming, and unforgettable activities. 

Celebrating with Gratitude

At CBS, we take this week as an opportunity to express our gratitude in tangible ways. In our residential and day programs, DSPs are celebrated with special meals, gift bags filled with their favorite snacks, and positive message boards to uplift their spirits.

In some homes, celebrations take on a more personal touch with barbecues that allow both residents and team members to come together in joyous camaraderie. Families have even joined in by generously contributing funds for CBS-branded gear, like water bottles, vests, or coffee mugs, as tokens of appreciation.

This year, Director of Day Programs Betty Rivadeneira organized multiple events to punctuate DSP week. On the first day, Day Hab DSPs met at Cultivating Dreams Farm for a scavenger hunt thanking them for their support. They left for the day’s work with thoughtful gifts in hand. The next day, they were treated to delicious breakfast to go. On Wednesday and Thursday, staff were invited to destress with their choice of a yoga class, unwind with a painting class, or take an invigorating karate class, all held at the Hudson Valley InterArts Center. 

Employee of the Year: A Special Recognition

One of the highlights of DSP Week is the nomination and announcement of the Employee of the Year. DSPs from each program cast their votes in secret, selecting the team member they believe best embodies the mission of our agency. It’s a moment of great honor and pride for both the recipient and the entire CBS family. Check back to discover who will hold that honor this year. 

A Heartfelt Thank You

To all our Direct Support Professionals, we extend our deepest thanks. Your boundless compassion, creative spirit, and unwavering work ethic form the bedrock of CBS. You transform lives, inspire dreams, and make our community a better place.

We look forward to the year ahead, anticipating the accomplishments, growth, and shared moments of triumph it is sure to bring. Together, we’ll continue to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Thank you, DSPs, for being the heart and soul of CBS!

Want to Join Our Team?

Working at CBS isn’t just a job. It’s a life-changing career that changes lives. Our direct support professionals are the heroes in the stories of those they support. They help the people they care for live their best lives. It’s fun and rewarding work.

We want you to live your best life, too. DSP week is just one of the many ways CBS values and appreciates staff. In addition to benefits, we offer a great life/work balance with flexible scheduling and opportunities to advance yourself through our training program. Visit our Career page to learn more. 

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