Robert with his daughter.
Over the past few weeks, we have shared Words of Encouragement from from some of our colleagues As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads throughout the world, news, social media and work can be overwhelming. We’ve committed to sharing resources for taking care of yourself but we’re not alone. Many of our colleagues want to share words of encouragement. In the past few weeks, NADSP has shared videos from our partners each week with words of encouragement for direct support professionals. We want you to know that as you continue your essential work in supporting people with disabilities, you are not alone and you are valued for the incredible work you do.
This week, we are pleased to share a “Father’s Day” words of encouragement from Robert Curriden. Robert is a practicing licensed mental health counselor and former direct support professional (DSP) of over 10 years residing in Syracuse, New York. He has three daughters, the youngest of whom was diagnosed at 2 years of age with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Direct Support and the incredibly important work of DSPs that make up the profession, have been an integral part of his family’s life. The work of direct support professionals support a level of independence he once feared to be impossible for his daughter. Robert can be reached by clicking here.
In Robert’s video, he thanks direct support professionals for the work they have done during the pandemic and reflects on fatherhood. To watch the video, click the video below.
Looking for additional support during this time? Please note the resources below:
Self Care Resource Page for DSPs (webinars, handouts and additional resources: https://nadsp.org/covid-19resources/
On-Boarding New DSPs in A Crisis (Code of ethics Webinar Series, Competency Webinar Series, Additional Resources): https://nadsp.org/onboarding-in-crisis/
If you have additional resources to share, please connect with us at ndama@nadsp.org.
NADSP recognizes the invaluable work that Direct Support Professionals all over the world are doing during this unprecedented time. We appreciate you. We hope you remain safe and well.
Thank you,
The NADSP Team