DSP Talk

Lindsay Anne Murry is a long-time employee of AHRC NYC, with 19 years of experience in the organization. Lindsay has held various positions within AHRC NYC, including assistant manager, human rights committee coordinator, staff trainer, executive assistant, and program manager for special initiatives. Monique Robinson has been with AHCR NYC for a little over a year. She started as a direct support professional, then was promoted to employment community support coordinator. Shortly after Monique was promoted to community support supervisor. Dayvina Robinson heard about AHRC NYC through a friend. She started her career at AHRC right before the pandemic. Dayvina is passionate about learning and applying her love for psychology when working with the people she supports as a community support professional. Scott Diaz started as an intern at AHRC NYC. Advocacy work runs in his family, so he gravitated towards work that supported others. He started his career at AHRC in 2017 working in a day habilitation setting, but during the pandemic transitioned to residential. Since participating in the NADSP E-Badge Academy, he’s had the opportunity to network, build relationships with peers, and grow in his profession.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews four employees, Lindsay, Monique, Scott, and Dayvina, from AHRC NYC, who have taken advantage of the career pathway opportunities offered by the organization. Lindsay provides an overview of AHRC NYC and the services it provides for individuals and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She also discusses the various career development opportunities available to the direct support workforce, including trainings, certifications, and leadership programs. Monique, Scott, and Dayvina share their personal experiences and the impact these opportunities have had on their careers. They discuss the challenges they have faced, such as managing time and implementing new practices, as well as the rewards of supporting the people receiving services and making a positive impact in their lives.

Key Takeaways:

• AHRC NYC offers a wide range of career development opportunities for the direct support workforce, including trainings, certifications, and leadership programs.
• The NADSP E-Badge Academy is highly recommended for DSPs as it provides valuable knowledge and skills for supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Time management can be a challenge for DSPs, but the benefits of career development and networking outweigh the difficulties.
• The most rewarding part of the job is the opportunity to support and make a difference in the lives of the people receiving services.

Notable Quotes:

• "The most rewarding part of it is really the people that I support. They are just some of the most genuine people I've ever met in my life." – Dayvina Robinson
• “I was always asking for other ways to learn and develop my career and network. So, I was super proactive in trying to find these opportunities.” – Lindsay Anne Murry
• “You’re gonna have to want to do this, you’re going to want to be someone that is an ally…the passion shines.” – Scott Diaz
• “It [NADSP E-Badge Academy] teaches you so much. A lot of stuff that you thought, you know, and you really don't know.” – Monique Robinson

Resources:

• AHRC NYC website: hrcnyc.org
• NADSP E-Badge Academy: https://ebadge.nadsp.org/

Listen to the full episode of DSP Talk to learn more about AHRC NYC's career pathway opportunities and the experiences of staff members in the Direct Support Profession.

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BJ Stasio is an advocate and activist based in Buffalo, New York. He is passionate about advocating for disability rights and improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. BJ relies on personal care attendants and self-direction support staff to support him in his daily activities and advocacy work. He is dedicated to giving back to the community and believes in the power of storytelling to create positive change.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews BJ Stasio, an advocate and activist who receives support from a provider organization in Buffalo, New York. BJ shares his interests, such as football and taking naps, and discusses the supports he relies on to live the life he wants. He highlights the importance of having dedicated direct support professionals (DSPs) who understand his advocacy work and respect his autonomy. BJ also emphasizes the need for better wages and recognition for DSPs in the caring field. Throughout the conversation, BJ's passion for advocacy and his appreciation for the DSPs in his life shine through.

Key Takeaways:

• BJ Stasio relies on personal care attendants and self-direction support staff to support him in his daily activities and advocacy work.
• A great DSP is someone who understands the importance of advocacy, supports the individual's goals, and encourages self-care.
• DSPs should not speak for an individual but rather provide support in the background, allowing the individual to advocate for themselves.
• Wages and labor classification for DSPs are important issues that need to be addressed to recognize their value and contribution to the caring field.
• Advocates should tell their stories and work together to create positive change for individuals with disabilities.

Notable Quotes:

"One thing that is important for [you] to say now is, thank you for what you do for me. It’s important to know [they/DSPs] are valued.” - BJ Stasio

"[My DSPs] are dedicated to my mission of advocating for others, but at the same time, helping me realize that I need to take care of myself, too, because self-care is important." - BJ Stasio

“I always believe it's important to give back because of all those people who have helped me have the life that I want” - BJ Stasio

"Important issues that are on the table, of course, are the wages and the labor classification that DSP should have with the federal government to be recognized as a part of the caring field." - BJ Stasio

"The future for me is limitless… Tell your story, because it does matter." - BJ Stasio

Resources:

SANYS: Self-Advocacy Association of New York State - SANYS: Self-Advocacy Association of NYS

The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities Self-Direction - Self-Direction | Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (ny.gov)

The Regional Center for Workforce Transformation - Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation | Code of Ethics & Core Competencies for Direct Support Professionals

To listen to the full episode and gain more insights from BJ Stasio's advocacy journey and the importance of DSPs in his life, tune in to the DSP Talk podcast. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and discussions on disability support.

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Ed Bartz is a 61-year-old man living successfully with cerebral palsy. He has strived to live independently and has been a strong advocate for self-direction programs. Ed uses an augmentative communication device to convey his thoughts and feelings, and he is known for his social nature and sense of humor. He hires direct support professionals (DSPs) to assist him with personal care and live the quality of life he desires.

Wilson Pickett has been a DSP for over 0 years. He started his career working with individuals with autism and later transitioned to working with individuals with more complex needs. Wilson has been supporting Ed Bartz for 14 years and has developed a strong bond with him. He values the individualized support he can provide through self-direction and finds fulfillment in helping individuals live their lives to the fullest.

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews Ed Bartz, a man living with cerebral palsy, and his DSP, Wilson Pickett. Ed shares his journey of striving for independence and the challenges he faced in finding support that aligned with his vision. He emphasizes the importance of self-direction programs and the role of DSPs in helping him live the quality of life he desires. Wilson, who has been supporting Ed for 14 years, discusses his experience in the field and the unique bond he has formed with Ed through self-direction. The episode highlights the importance of compassion and the desire to help others in becoming a DSP.

•  Ed Bartz has successfully lived with cerebral palsy and has strived for independence.
• Self-direction programs have allowed Ed to choose his own support and live the life he desires.
• Direct support professionals (DSPs) play a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives.
• Direct support professionals (DSPs) sometimes get to do things out of the ordinary.
• Becoming a DSP requires compassion and a genuine desire to help others.

Notable Quotes:

•  "My disability has made me the person I am." - Ed Bartz
•  "Being able to laugh and joke is important, at least in my opinion." - Ed Bartz
•  “My history in striving to live on my own took many twists and turns. Not only the physical but getting others to believe in my vision.” – Ed Bartz
•  “Through the years we’ve [Ed and I] learned each other.” – Wilson Pickett
•  "Just helping a person live their life and do what they need to do, that's what I would think you need first." - Wilson Pickett

Resources:

Augmentative Communication Devices & Other Assistive Technology - Assistive Technology, Environmental Modifications, and Vehicle Modifications | Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (ny.gov)

The ARC of Rensselaer County - The Arc of Rensselaer County - The Arc of Rensselaer County (renarc.org)

The Regional Center for Workforce Transformation - Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation | Code of Ethics & Core Competencies for Direct Support Professionals

The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities Self-Direction - Self-Direction | Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (ny.gov)

Listen to the full episode of DSP Talk to gain insight into the experiences of Ed Bartz, a man living with cerebral palsy, and his dedicated DSP, Wilson Pickett. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and valuable discussions on the 

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Valerie Largent is a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and Team Leader from the ARC of Monroe County. With over 12 years of experience in the field, Valerie is dedicated to assisting individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities in obtaining the necessary skills to obtain employment. She is passionate about empowering individuals, promoting inclusion in the community, and integrating people with diverse abilities into workplaces.

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews Valerie Largent, a DSP and Team Leader from the ARC of Monroe County. Valerie shares her journey into the field of disability support, discussing how she transitioned from viewing her work as a job to a fulfilling career. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the abilities and potential of individuals with disabilities, rather than focusing solely on their limitations. Valerie highlights the impact of high turnover rates on the individuals receiving support and sees the benefits of having a diverse workforce that can enrich the lives of those receiving services.

Key Takeaways:

• Valerie Largent's journey from viewing her work as a job to a fulfilling career in disability support. 
• The importance of recognizing the abilities and potential of individuals with disabilities.
• Building trusting and collaborative relationships with the people being supported.
• The impact of high turnover rates on individuals with disabilities and the need for consistent support.
• The qualities of a great DSP, including compassion, flexibility, and dedication.

Notable Quotes:

•  "A lot of times, people believe that when you see a person with a disability, you're only focused on what they can't do, not realizing all the amazing things that they can do." - Valerie Largent
• "It's remembering that you're there to assist them and not to do it for them." - Valerie Largent
•  "If you have the compassion and the drive to give people the best lives that they can have, if you believe that every person deserves a fair chance, then this is the field for you." - Valerie Largent

Resources:

The ARC of Monroe - The Arc of Monroe | Supporting Those with Intellectual and other Developmental Disabilities (arcmonroe.org)

The Regional Center for Workforce Transformation - Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation | Code of Ethics & Core Competencies for Direct Support Professionals

To listen to the full episode and gain more insight into Valerie Largent's experiences as a DSP and Team Leader, tune in to the DSP Talk podcast. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and valuable perspectives in the world of disability supports.

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Danielle Neff is a Senior Direct Support Professional (DSP) at a provider organization in Long Island, New York. Danielle supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is passionate about helping these individuals achieve their goals and live independent lives. Danielle's career in the field of disability support started as just a job, but it quickly became her calling. She finds purpose and fulfillment in her work, and considers the individuals she supports as part of her extended family.

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews Danielle Neff, a Senior Direct Support Professional (DSP) from Long Island, New York. Danielle shares her journey into the field of disability support and how it has become more than just a job for her. She discusses the importance of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving their goals and living independent lives. Danielle emphasizes the strong relationships she has developed with the people she supports, considering them as part of her family. She also highlights the qualities that make a successful DSP and offers advice to those considering a career in this field.

Key Takeaways:

• Supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is more than just a job; it is a fulfilling career that gives purpose and meaning to DSPs.
• The individuals supported by DSPs are like family, and strong relationships are formed based on empathy, care, and mutual respect.
• Successful DSPs are empathetic, caring, observant, and hardworking individuals who genuinely care about the well-being and goals of the people they support.
• Taking a chance and entering the field of disability support can lead to a rewarding career that makes a difference in the lives of others.

Notable Quotes:

• "I feel like I have my family that I have now and that I grew up with and everything, and then I have my work family. And the individuals we support are all a part of my family." - Danielle Neff
• "The people we support…each and every one of them are just so different and have these amazing personalities and abilities and talents. And that's really why the work matters, because it's really just all about them." - Danielle Neff
• "It's the one job that I actually didn't feel miserable in. I enjoyed doing it. I felt like it mattered, and I felt like it was making a difference." - Danielle Neff

Resources:

East End Disability Associates, Inc. 

Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation 

Listen to the full episode of DSP Talk to gain valuable insights into the field of disability support and the rewarding career of a DSP. Discover how Danielle Neff found purpose and fulfillment in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and learn about the qualities that make a successful DSP. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on DSP Talk.

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Peter Leonard is the father of Kevin Leonard, who receives support and services from New Horizons Resources, a provider organization in Hudson Valley, New York. He appreciates the direct support professionals who have made a positive impact on Kevin's life and continue to help him blossom.

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews Peter Leonard, the father of a son with developmental disabilities. Peter shares his experiences with the support his son receives from New Horizons Resources and the direct support professionals who work with him. He emphasizes the importance of direct support professionals in helping individuals with disabilities thrive and become active members of their communities. Through personal stories, Peter highlights the positive impact these professionals have had on his son's growth and independence.

Key themes discussed in the episode include the significance of direct support professionals in providing meaningful support, the importance of creating a sense of belonging and community for individuals with disabilities, and the transformative effect of person-centered care.

Key Takeaways:

• Direct support professionals play a crucial role in the lives of individuals with disabilities, providing meaningful support and helping them thrive.
• The support of direct support professionals can help individuals with disabilities develop a sense of independence and identity.
• Direct support professionals create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to be active members of their communities.
• The work of direct support professionals is rooted in values of equality, dignity, and respect for the individual.

Notable Quotes:

• “People who work with my son, every single one of them, over a 12 or 13 year period, everyone has been extraordinary and really made a difference for the good in his life.” - Peter Leonard
• “I think what direct support professionals do at their best is they provided the circumstances for [Kevin] to take place within his community.” - Peter Leonard

Resources:

New Horizons Resources

Listen to the full episode of DSP Talk to hear Peter Leonard's inspiring story and learn more about the impact of direct support professionals in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from DSP Talk.

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Joseph Macbeth is the President and CEO for the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). He has been working in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1983. Macbeth is recognized as an international leader in the advocacy movement to recognize direct support work as a profession. In 2022, he was awarded the Service to the Field Award from the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. President Biden appointed him to a two-year term as a member of the President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.

In this episode of DSP Talk, host Gina Scarpa interviews Joseph Macbeth, the President and CEO of the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). Macbeth shares his insights on the origins of direct support work, the shift from institutional care to community-based support, and the evolving role of direct support professionals (DSPs) in people's lives. He emphasizes the importance of DSPs in helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live fulfilling lives and become valued members of their communities. Macbeth also discusses the need for recognition of DSPs as professionals and the challenges they face, including low wages and inadequate training. He highlights the opportunity presented by the COVID-19 pandemic to advocate for better support and career opportunities for DSPs.

Key Takeaways:

• Direct support professionals (DSPs) assist people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in realizing their full potential and becoming valued members of their communities.
• The origins of direct support work can be traced back to the closure of large public institutions in the 1970s, which led to the opening of group homes and community-based support.
• DSPs play a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities in various settings, including residential, day programs, employment, and self-directed services.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the essential nature of DSPs and the need for better recognition, wages, training, and career opportunities in the field.
• Advocacy efforts are underway to secure professional identity for DSPs through standardized occupational classification and to improve the overall perception and compensation for the profession.

Notable Quotes:

• "Being a direct support professional was the most challenging job I have ever had. It was the most energizing job I ever had." - Joseph Macbeth
• "Direct support professionals are ultimately seen as ambassadors or mentors or coaches to the people that they support, walking side by side on their own life's journey." - Joseph Macbeth
• "Our job is to get out of the way, help people build those relationships, help people contribute to their communities, and then fade away and be there if you need us." - Joseph Macbeth

Resources:

National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) 

Thank you for listening to this episode of DSP Talk. To gain more insights into the world of direct support professionals and disability support, be sure to listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from DSP Talk.

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Welcome to DSP Talk, the podcast that's exploring the complex world of disability support.

Join us as we speak to direct support professionals, people receiving services and support, family members, and other field experts, as they delve into the diverse and dynamic world of disability support, navigating the challenges, sharing uplifting stories, and shedding light on the impactful human experience within the direct support profession.

Our episodes highlight the journey towards community inclusion, the significance of a competent workforce, and the vital role direct support professionals play in the lives of those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Whether you're a dedicated direct support professional, a recipient of support services, or just someone eager to make a difference, DSP Talk is your go-to platform for inspiration, enlightenment, and advocacy.

Get ready to challenge stereotypes, broaden your perspective, and join the movement towards acknowledging this essential group of professionals.

Welcome to DSP Talk! 

Regional Centers for Workforce Transformation | Code of Ethics & Core Competencies for Direct Support Professionals

Brought to you by: The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation

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