Angela’s Experiences With The NADSP E-Badge Academy

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

Describe the story you shared in carrying out that competency:

In carrying out this competency, I shared a story about supporting a group of Self-Advocates who wanted to address the long-standing issue of inadequate disability income rates. They identified the problem, set the direction, and partnered with the local university. My role was to encourage their leadership, offer guidance when asked, and support them on organizing their committees and preparing to speak publicly. This story demonstrates the core of advocating with: walking beside people as they use their own voices and make their own decisions.

Why is this competency so important to DSPs?

This competency is so important to DSPs because it is a core part of ethical, person-centered support. By meeting people where they are and walking alongside them, this approach promotes inclusion, protect rights, and strengthens trust between DSPs and the people they support.

Have you used this competency in your work?

I use this competency by supporting people to lead their own advocacy, keeping their voice central, practicing person-centered support, and reviewing the Code of Ethics to ensure dignity, respect, choice, and professionalism.

How can other DSPs replicate your practices?

Other DSPs can replicate these practices by encouraging people to lead their own advocacy and keeping the person’s voice at the center of every decision. DSPs can help people build confidence, strengthen self-determination, and develop skills needed to speak up for themselves. Using person-centered support is also key. DSPs should tailor their approaches to each person’s communication style, preferences, and goals. Person-centered support ensures that advocacy reflects what matters most the individual. DSPs can regularly review and apply the NADSP Code of Ethics to guide their practice. The Code provides a clear framework for upholding dignity, choice, respect, and professional standards. By grounding their work in the Code of Ethics, DSPs are better prepared to navigate ethical dilemmas, maintain strong boundaries, and ensure their actions consistently honor the rights and autonomy of the people they support.

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

The NADSP E-Badge Academy strengthens my agency by building consistent, high-quality practice, recognizing DSP skills, and grounding staff in the Code of Ethics. It supports professionalism, improves service quality, and helps ensure people receive person-centered, rights-focused support.

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

The NADSP E-Badge Academy benefits the people I support by ensuring DSPs provide consistent, skilled, person-centered support grounded in the Code of Ethics. It leads to higher-quality advocacy, stronger relationships, and more respectful, rights-focused services.

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

My future involvement in the NADSP E-Badge Academy includes completing all the DSP levels plus the Frontline Supervisor badges.

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

The NADSP E-Badge Academy has strengthened my professional image by validating my skills and commitment to ethical, person-centered support. It reinforces that I am on the right path and highlights the value of the work I do as a DSP. It gives me opportunities to share my experiences so others can learn from them and strengthen their own practices. I’d like you to know that I’m committed to continuing as a DSP and using what I’ve learned to support others. The E-Badge Academy reinforces that I’m on the right professional path.

NADSP E-Badge Academy Earners Of The Month