Frontline Initiative Direct Support Professionals

Well, here it is! Another issue of Frontline Initiative hot off the press. It is so jam-packed with useful information, you won’t be able to put it down, from stories written by Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who are working on the front lines supporting individuals with disabilities to stories about quiet heroes and resources for those seeking more knowledge and skills.

In our lead story, Voices of DSPs, Diana takes a look at how Easter Seals Lacey helps employees manage stress. Make sure you read her story.

We have included several articles for DSPs in search of more knowledge and skills in this issue. Consider Susan O’Nell’s article about using the College of Direct Support (CDS) to create a Direct Support Profession. CDS is an on-line training curriculum specifically designed to teach DSPs the skill and knowledge they need to be the best they can be. Also check out Tim Lister’s story in our In Action column, about how CDS is making a difference in the supports he provides. Or perhaps you are interested in the Certificate in Disability Policy and Services offered by Institute on Community Integration at the University of Minnesota. Continuing with our education opportunities, read about InfoUse a training program on CD-ROM for personal assistance services in person centered planning and consumer choice options. And finally, for those of you who read the first part of the article Supporting Cultural Shifting in our last issue, you may want to finish learning how to build bridges and support more community inclusive opportunities for the individuals you support.

On a more personal note, meet quiet hero, Erica Stevenson from Baltimore, MD. She sought special help to secure a job after graduation from college and was successful because of the support she received from The League for People with Disabilities. Don’t miss her story! We hope you enjoy the stories and information you find in this issue of Frontline Initiative. As always, we encourage our readers to share their own stories.