'A Work of Heart': Mosaic Recognizes Direct Support Professionals

Act now—your donation to local news ensures a brighter, more informed tomorrow. WAUKON, Iowa — Mosaic in Northern Iowa is observing National Direct Support Professional (DSP) Week, Sept. 7–13, by recognizing staff who support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Direct Support Professionals help individuals with IDD live at home and participate in their communities. The role often includes assistance with daily living tasks, such as dressing, mobility, and personal care. "We want to raise awareness and recognize the important work DSPs do supporting people to live the life they choose. Their work makes Mosaic's mission statement to 'relentlessly pursue opportunities that empower people' come alive. It is truly a work of heart, which is our theme for this year's awareness celebration," said Mosaic Area Director, Sonya Middleton. "Mosaic and other service providers couldn't do what we do without them." While Mosaic in Northern Iowa serves many people with a higher degree of independence, it also supports those who require assistance with activities of daily life. The organization continues to advocate for higher pay for DSPs, whose wages are tied to government funding. "Provider organizations across the nation are still experiencing staffing crises like none before," said Cheryl Wicks, Mosaic's Vice President of Government Relations. "States and the federal government must remedy the decades of chronic underfunding so wages for DSPs can increase, and people with disabilities have the support they need." According to Middleton, "For most Direct Support Professionals, their work isn't a job, it's often a calling. We have some DSPs who have loved and served people with IDD for years because they know they're making a positive difference for others. It's a selfless act–and that's why they should be held up, celebrated and rewarded." Mosaic, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, provides services in 12 states and more than 750 communities, supporting nearly 5,000 people with disabilities, mental and behavioral health needs, autism, and aging adults. The organization is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and is a member of Lutheran Services in America. For more information about Mosaic in Northern Iowa, visit mosaicinfo.org/locations/iowa/northern-ia or mosaicinfo.org.