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Every September, we celebrate Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week. In a busy industry where many of us are getting through the day hour-to-hour, it’s important to take the time to recognize the essential work and tireless dedication of DSPs. Without their efforts, our industry would be unable to provide people with disabilities with the opportunity to live full, self-directed lives. These professionals are the heart of our services, showing up every day with compassion, creativity, and strength.  

Whether you’re a small provider agency or a large organization, there are meaningful ways to recognize your team and show how much they’re valued. As organizations begin planning DSP week celebrations, ARRM has a few suggestions to inspire and guide these efforts. 

1. Personalized thank-you notes. Whether from leadership, residents, or families (or some combination of the three!), handwritten thank-you notes are always meaningful. Where possible, refer to specific times that a DSP has gone above and beyond, or to specific things that a DSP does that makes things better for their colleagues and/or the individuals they serve. The little things really make the difference here! Pro tip: Over the course of the upcoming year, keep a running document with things you can include in thank-you notes for DSP Week 2026! 
2. Tell DSP stories. Feature individual DSPs on your website or social media, highlighting their efforts and the impact they’ve made on your organization. Where possible, include quotes from colleagues or supervisors as well as the individuals a DSP serves. In fact, even a short collection of words of praise for each DSP from various people can be enough content for a whole post. Just add some pictures and you’ve got a great shoutout!  
3. Encourage professional development. Whether a DSP has been on the job for three decades or three months, professional development is often a welcome break from the daily routine and an opportunity to deepen skills or refresh memories. You can invite speakers to your organization for a lunch-and-learn-style session or take advantage of the professional development offered by ARRM throughout the year. Leadership, self-care, skill building, and program inspiration are all topics that can be a good fit for DSPs, depending on your organization.  
4. Give gifts. If you have the budget for things like gift cards or DSPs' favorite treats or snacks, that’s great! If not, try reaching out to local businesses to see if they would be willing to donate discounted services or gift cards for DSPs. 
5. Host a thank-you event. A thank-you event could take multiple forms, whether it’s ordering a meal for each shift at a group home, or getting the whole team together at once for a more elaborate event. Regardless of the format, ensure that it’s thoughtful and inclusive, respecting food sensitivities or any religious observances. 
6. Get involved. As you know, Medicaid cuts and budget shortfalls are a concern for the entire industry, and the rising cost of living is a difficult reality for many people outside of work. Share with DSPs what your organization is doing to advocate for them at the state and federal levels. Start making a plan to have your organization represented at ARRM’s grassroots events and Disability Services Day at the Capitol. 

Celebrating DSP Recognition Week doesn’t require a big budget, just thoughtful planning, appreciation, and a willingness to shine a light on your team’s incredible work. However you choose to honor your DSPs, make sure they feel seen, heard, and celebrated. Their dedication makes all our work possible, and this is the perfect moment to return the favor. 

ARRM would love to see how your organization is celebrating DSP week! Send your pictures and stories to mpetersen@arrm.org and we may feature you on our social media!