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.
Last week, we shared words of encouragement from our colleague and friend Philadelphia Inquirer Journalist, Ronnie Polaneczky. She shared how grateful she is for direct support professionals and how important they are. This week, we reached out to our colleague Dr. Beth Mount, PhD. Dr. Mount is one of the honorees of the National Historic Recognition Project. Dr. Mount’s bio for the National Historic Recognition Project states, “For more than 30 years, Dr. Mount has provided consultancies throughout the US on person-centered systems, organizational change. During this time Dr. Mount has authored or co-authored numerous books and articles on person-centered planning, bridge building, direct support, transforming systems to be person-centered, school-to-work transition, and circles of support. Additionally, she promotes the use of graphics, photography, film, and fiber art as ways to help people to share their perspectives and stories through art.” For more by Dr. Beth Mount, visit her website by clicking here.
In Dr. Mount’s video, she discusses the experiences of direct support professionals in New York City and a message of hope. To watch Dr. Mount’s 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