The following article is part of an ongoing series about the NADSP Competency Areas. The NADSP Competency Areas offer DSPs the opportunity to address challenges, work on issues identified by the person they support, or assist a person in pursuing a particular goal. Each Competency Area has corresponding skill statements that describe the knowledge and skills DSPs must have to demonstrate competency in each area.

This blog is about the skill statement “The competent DSP implements individual supports regarding community activities,” within the NADSP Competency Area: “Building and Maintaining Friendships and Relationships.”

Inside The Competency Area

Building and Maintaining Friendships and Relationships

The NADSP Competency Area of Building and Maintaining Friendships and Relationships focuses on the ability of a direct support professional (DSP) to foster meaningful, respectful, and professional connections between the people they support, their families, colleagues, and the broader community. This competency emphasizes trust, empathy, effective communication, and consistency in interactions. For DSPs, fostering strong relationships is crucial because it directly impacts the quality of care and support a person receives. Positive relationships promote collaboration, enhance understanding of individual needs and preferences, and create a safe and supportive environment where people feel valued and heard.

By maintaining these connections, DSPs help people build social networks and increase community inclusion. They can assist people to achieve personal goals. Ultimately, they are helping to contribute to their well-being, independence, and life satisfaction with social expansion and relationship-building guiding the way.

Inside The Skill Statement

The competent DSP implements individual supports regarding community activities.

The DSP’s implementation of individual supports for community activities is essential because it ensures that participation is meaningful, personalized, and aligned with each person’s interests, goals, and comfort level. By thoughtfully planning and facilitating involvement, DSPs remove barriers, provide encouragement, and help people with disabilities adapt to environments so they can engage safely and confidently. This promotes social inclusion, skill development, and personal growth.

DSPs can help people to experience independence and fulfillment as well as connect with other people in their community and social circles. When community activities are supported in a person-centered way, they can become opportunities for connection rather than mere attendance. This improves overall quality of life and the fostering a sense of belonging of which we all strive to feel!

The Impact On People Receiving Services

When DSPs plan and facilitate community-based activities people with disabilities can be empowered to explore new experiences and build social connections. They can develop skills in navigating human relationships. This can support a sense of accomplishment and reduce barriers that might otherwise limit participation.

DSPs must ensure that people feel safe, valued, and included. Ongoing meaningful community involvement can also foster non-paid social relationships. By embracing these relationship-building, competency-based actions, this expands networks and enhances overall well-being for people supported. Rather than simply attending activities, people can experience genuine engagement and interaction. These opportunities contribute to personal growth, increased self-determination, and a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, this skill ensures that community participation is not just a task, but a pathway to empowerment, inclusion, and expanded human connections for each person receiving services.

Putting It All Into Practice

DSPs can apply this skill by first taking the time to understand each person’s interests, strengths, and goals. This involves active listening, observation, and engaging in conversations to identify meaningful activities that align with the person’s preferences and comfort levels. DSPs can research and plan community experiences that are safe, accessible, and enjoyable. This might include local classes, social events, volunteering, or recreational programs – the list is really endless.

DSPs must implement supports by preparing for each activity. This involves arranging transportation. It includes gathering necessary materials and supplies. There is often lots of coordinating with community partners, organizations, and businesses. During participation, DSPs provide encouragement and guidance. They will ensure that accommodations needed are supplied, while also promoting independence rather than doing tasks FOR the person. DSPs monitor engagement and adjust supports as needed, ensuring the person remains comfortable and included. The DSP will help protect the person they support from anything that may be exploitive or dangerous, and advocate in the event there is anything like that detected.

Communication is crucial. DSPs should regularly check in with the person before, during, and after activities. They need to reflect on experiences and make adjustments for future participation. Collaboration with colleagues, families, and community members further enhances opportunities and ensures a supportive environment.

By consistently applying this skill, DSPs transform community activities from passive experiences into purposeful, empowering opportunities. People benefit from increased social connection, personal growth, and confidence. Understanding and using this competency as a guide can help the DSP promote independence, inclusion, and a richer, more fulfilling life with more opportunities for non-paid relationships and friendships for the people they support.

Quick Tips

How can you help embrace this skill statement and implement it? Here are some quick tips!

• • Help people adapt to environments so people with disabilities can engage safely and confidently
  • Research and plan community experiences that are safe, accessible, and enjoyable
  • Ensure that people have the opportunity to make informed choices in safely expressing their sexuality
  • Regularly check in with the person before, during, and after activities
  • Refrain from expressing negative views, harsh judgments, and stereotyping of people close to those you support
  • If you are unable to separate your own beliefs and preferences in a given situation, remove yourself from the situation and seek the assistance of a qualified co-worker

Relevant Resources

• Frontline Initiative: Supporting Healthy Relationships
• AAIDD: Community Living and Participation for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• Spellers & Allies: How To Be An Ally To Non-Speaking People
• ADA National Network: Contact Your Region/ADA Center