What is a Direct Support Professional (DSP)?

Direct Support Professionals work directly with people with physical and/or intellectual disabilities with the aim of assisting the individual to become integrated into their community or the least restrictive environment.

Direct Support Professionals are more than just service workers- they become part of members’ lives and serve as advocates to help ensure people with disabilities have what they need to increase their independence. They encourage integration and improve cultural attitudes about people with disabilities. A DSP may provide supports to a person with a disability at home, work, school, church, and other community places.

CAU’s professionals are currently serving 350 people with developmental disabilities and youth-at-risk living in 60 residential programs throughout Union County, NJ, with another 1,000 individuals and families served in the community.

CAU DSPs are frontline heroes during the coronavirus pandemic- they are going above and beyond the call of duty to support members through the major disruptions caused in their lives this year. We recognize their tenacity and commitment in meeting these challenges to provide the very best support to members.

Our DSPs assist members with daily life activities and ensure they have access to virtual and in-person services such as day habilitation, employment services, behavioral supports, assistive technology and more. These vital programs have continued through the pandemic with their assistance and input.

DSP Appreciation week is a week-long celebration of our outstanding Direct Support Professionals!

Help us celebrate them with a shout out for the amazing DSP in your life on Facebook using #DSPRW2020 and tag CAU!