PLEASE NOTE: The Register Now buttons on this page are for making a contribution to our event, not registration for the event itself

Registration for the event is completely free.
To register to join the event taking place on September 17 via Zoom, click here to visit the event landing page.

The direct support professional (DSP) workforce provides critical supports making it possible for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live, work and thrive in their communities. As you know, this work requires specialized skills and competencies that are not reflected by the low wages, limited access to benefits, and lack of professional recognition.

At no time in our history has the value of this workforce been more clearly demonstrated than during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the pandemic continues the uncertainty with in-person events, once again this year in lieu of our regional DSP Conference, we will celebrate DSPs virtually on Friday, September 17, 2021. Registration is complimentary for all. Presentations will be recorded and available on the DSP Conference Landing Page following the event. Visit the Landing Page for more information about other initiatives celebrating DSPs.

The event will include the following presentations and a DSP award presentation:

Friday, September 17 At 10:00AM

You Don't Know Me Until You Know Me

Presented by Dr. Mykee Fowlin, Psychologist, Performer and Poet

You Don't Know Me Until You Know Me takes the audience on an experiential journey, having them reexamine core precepts that were taught to us from as early on as 1st grade. He uses many of his gifts – humor, performance art, poetry, storytelling, psychology, theatrical monologues, and his personal journey – to create a moving experience for all who are open to this evolution.

Friday, September 17 At 11:00AM

What Keeps You Hopeful As A Direct Support Professional In These Times

Presented by John Raffaele, NADSP & Edgardo Velez, Heartshare Human Services

Join John Raffaele from the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals and Edgardo Velez from Heartshare/NYC as they explore how to remain hopeful in times when the stress of our work life is heavy.  Several direct support professionals will join in a conversation about the things they do to stay positive, remain hopeful and refill their “wells” during a pandemic.  We will dig deep into what drives us and what sustains us as we commit to our profession to support people with disabilities. 

Friday, September 17 At 12:00PM

Annual DSP Awards Presentation

Join us at 12:00PM to celebrate the incredible work of DSPs. During this time, the NY Alliance will honor all of the DSPs across the State including the more than 175 nominees we received. Each region will showcase two winners who will receive a certificate and a $100 gift card.

Let's Celebrate!

Be a Contributor for the 2021 NY Alliance DSP Celebration Event

As we celebrate DSPs in this virtual format, agencies will have the opportunity to be recognized as a Contributor to this event.  As a Contributor, your support will cover the cost of DSP participation along with prizes to be given. In turn, your agency will be listed as supporting the event. Agencies can send as many DSPs as you would like to attend the event and we can provide a link to the recorded event so that DSPs that are working can view the presentations at their convenience. 

We are excited about this event and the format for celebrating DSPs.  We look forward to you being an integral part of it.  It will be a great time for all, and we believe DSPs will value it and your contribution in celebrating them. If you'd like to make a contribution, click the Register Now button above or below. If you have any questions or comments on how you can help to make it more spectacular, please feel free to contact me at [email protected].

The Register Now buttons on this page are for making a contribution to our event, not registration for the event itself

Registration for the event is completely free.
To register to join the event taking place on September 17 via Zoom, click here to visit the event landing page.