DEKALB – Opportunity House in Sycamore wrapped up Direct Support Professional Recognition Week with events honoring staff who assist people with disabilities, including breakfasts, raffles, and more. Direct support professionals help clients with daily tasks, community activities, and personal goals, with paid training and certification offered by the agency.
“We’re always looking to add more DSPs to our team, direct support professionals, and you could go and visit www.ohinc.org and go to employment and that will get you started on the application process,” said Director of Development Marlene Ceja.
Case Manager Allie Mabins, who began as a direct support professional, added that the work is both rewarding and accessible.
“I will say from my experience, coming from a DSP directly into Case Management, I didn’t have the qualifications needed to be a Case Manager for Adults with Disabilities at the time, but Opportunity House gave me that opportunity. So they allowed me to take the courses needed, so now I’m able to directly help them,” Mabins said.