Leslie’s Experiences With The NADSP E-Badge Academy

The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) recently asked Leslie about her experiences with the NADSP E-Badge Academy. The questions covered how she carries out her work as a direct support professional, the skillsets she demonstrates on a daily basis, the impact that the E-Badge Academy has had on her professional recognition, and how she gets credit for competency.

Describe the story you shared in carrying out that competency:

To earn this badge I was asked to describe a situation in which I used the NADSP Code of Ethics to guide my decision making. To assist me in my decision making I referred to the NADSP Code of Ethics where it states “I will encourage growth and recognize the autonomy of those receiving support while being attentive and energetic in reducing the risk of harm” and to “partner with each person and their network to identify areas of risk and create safeguards specific to these concerns.”

 I shared the story an individual I support as his Services Coordinator in a vocational setting.  The individual I support wanted to work in a restaurant setting however, I was concerned that the restaurant may not be a good fit for him as he had difficulty managing his polydipsia (excessive thirst).  Instead of depriving this individual of this opportunity to work in the restaurant I met with his support network which included the individual, his mother, his home manager, and the physician to develop a plan that would minimize his risk of accessing beverages at the restaurant. The individual was informed of the risk of drinking beverages at the restaurant and informed he should always ask his DSP before getting a beverage. Once he was informed of the risks of him drinking to many beverages he agreed to adhere to the guidelines of asking his DSP before drinking any beverages at the restaurant, the individual was given the “green light” to work at the restaurant and has thoroughly enjoyed his experience there.

Why is this competency so important to DSPs?

It is essential for the DSP to follow the NADSP Code of Ethics because the DSP is faced with making decisions daily that affect the lives of those they support. It is necessary for the DSP to be able to refer to the NADSP Code of Ethics as a guide when making ethical decisions to ensure that the DSP is promoting person-centered support, independence and justice to those they support.

How have you used this competency in your work?

I use the NADSP Code of Ethics daily in my work and decision making.  Using the NADSP Code of Ethics as a guide ensures that I am committed to person-centered support and I am partnering with the person I support to facilitate their expression of choices and values.

How can other DSPs replicate your practices?

Every DSP should have access to or a copy of the NADSP Code of Ethics. The DSP should read it and refer to it frequently. When making decisions regarding an individual they support, a DSP should ask is it person-centered, promoting the wellbeing of those they support and are they acting with integrity.

How does the NADSP E-Badge Academy benefit your agency?

The NADSP E-Badge Academy benefits New Horizons Rehabilitation Services by having Direct Support Professionals trained to understand and navigate complex situations using best practices. The NADSP E-badge Academy provides the opportunity for DSPs to exemplify the highest standards of ethical practices allowing New Horizons to be best-in-class for Direct Support Professionals.

How does NADSP E-Badge Academy benefit the people you support?

The NADSP E-Badge Academy benefits the people I support by providing well trained and skilled Direct Support Professionals. The individuals I support have a Support Professional who has had extensive training and therefore has more knowledge, insight and tools to navigate familiar and not so familiar situations always promoting the values of those I support.

What does the future hold for your involvement in the NADSP E-Badge Academy?

I have earned my DSP-I certificate and I am working towards my DSP-II certification. I plan to always advance my knowledge and skills because I value continuous improvement and lifelong learning.

How has NADSP E-Badge Academy affected your professional image?

As a DSP-I, I have received recognition from my Branch Manager, Administration and Board of Directors. My coworkers have also congratulated me on my accomplishments. As a DSP-I, feel a strong professional identity as I help other DSPs move toward certification.

The NADSP E-Badge Academy has greatly improved my skills and understanding on how I can best partner with the individuals I support to help them enjoy a rich and fulfilling life.

How has NADSP E-Badge Academy given you credit for competency?

The NADSP E-Badge Academy has given me credit by awarding me badges for hours of online accredited learning and by awarding me badges for testimonials that demonstrate my competency and skills in the field of Direct Support.

Well Wishes from Leslie’s Agency

Congratulations on being selected as the NADSP E-Badge Earner of the Month! We are thrilled to recognize your outstanding performance in this program and in our agency. This great honor reflects your dedication to our mission and the people we serve. On behalf of myself and our Board of Directors, thank you for your hard work and congratulations once again! – Tim Hatfield, President/CEO, New Horizons Rehabilitation Services, Inc. 

Congratulations Leslie on being recognized as a NADSP E-Badge Earner of the month for February 2024! I, as your manager, am absolutely thrilled but not at all surprised to hear the news of this wonderful and deserving recognition from NADSP. I also know the rest of everyone else here at New Horizons Novi are rooting for your continued success in the program. We are all very proud of you, Leslie, for both your involvement in the certification program and for this amazing recognition of your E-Badge Earner of the month achievement! Leslie’s ability to implement what she’s learned from the DSP Competencies as well as the Code of Ethics is very evident in her persistent advocacy for person served, she supports here in Novi each day. Great Work, Leslie!”

– Taylor Wilhelm, Branch Manager, New Horizons Novi

Leslie, I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on achieving the NADSP’s February E-Badge Earner of the Month. Your dedication, hard work and commitment to excellence have truly paid off and I couldn’t be prouder of your accomplishment. Your achievement not only reflects your personal determination and perseverance but also underscores your unwavering dedication to providing exceptional care and support to those in need. Your expertise and professionalism serve as inspiration to our colleagues and exemplifies the highest standards of service in our organization.

As you continue to grow and excel in your career, know that your contributions make a meaningful difference in the lives of others every day. Your passion for enhancing the well-being of individuals with disabilities is commendable and truly valued. Once again congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. I look forward to witnessing your continued success and the positive impact you will undoubtedly make in the future.

– Kimberly Pietrylka-Miller, Vice President, New Horizons Rehabilitation Services, Inc.

Congratulations, Leslie! I am thrilled to hear that you have been selected as the E-Badge Earner of the Month for NADSP. Your hard work and dedication have paid off, and this recognition is well-deserved. Your commitment to learning and self-development is an inspiration to us all. Keep up the great work! – Andrea Davis, Manager of Operations and Staff Development, Local Admin (E-Badge Academy), New Horizons Rehabilitation Services, Inc.

Congratulations, Leslie! What an honor to be chosen as NADSP’s February E-Badge Earner of the Month! Your exceptional commitment to those we serve and your genuine dedication to New Horizons are truly appreciated. It’s an honor to have you on our team, and we are all incredibly proud of you.

– Jason Kaszubski, Director of Human Resources, New Horizons Rehabilitation Services, Inc.

NADSP E-Badge Academy Earners Of The Month