PWS Association

September 13 to September 19, 2026, is Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week. While we recognize and are grateful for direct support professionals everyday, this week offers a perfect opportunity to share a special message. Thank you, DSPs for all you do for our loved ones living with PWS! About: Direct Support Professional (DSP) is an umbrella term that includes many different titles and functions, including direct care, direct support worker/specialist/assistant/counselor, habilitation specialist, residential counselor, activities of daily living specialist, relief staff, apartment worker, developmental disabilities specialist, job coach, employment specialist, community bridge-builder, paid friend/neighbor, family care provider, family support services aide, community companion, personal assistant, etc. Regardless of what title they have, they are the backbone of paid supports for individuals diagnosed with intellectual/developmental disabilities. You can learn more about National DSP week at https://www.pwsausa.org/national-direct-support-professionals-week-2022/.