Governor’s Proclamation Celebrates Direct Support Professionals as a Critical Part of the Human Services Workforce

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has proclaimed Sept. 10-17 as Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, a national celebration that highlights the dedicated, innovative direct support workforce that is the heart and soul of supportive services for individuals in need of care.

Direct support professionals include direct care staff, personal care attendants, in-home support workers, and many others who are on the frontline of providing community-based support and services.

Gov. Healey issued a proclamation stating, “The Commonwealth recognizes the important role direct support professionals play in improving the quality of life and care of people across Massachusetts.”

“DSPs are committed to keeping the people they support engaged with their families and their communities,” said The Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers (ADDP) President and CEO Ellen Attaliades. “They have a tremendous social impact, and also have an economic impact as their work enables family members and others to hold jobs or attend school knowing their loved one is being professionally supported and treated with dignity and respect.”