Every September, Fello joins providers across the country in celebrating Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Recognition Week—a time to honor the people who make the biggest impact in the lives of the people we support and in the communities we share.  

From September 7-13, Fello will celebrate the more than 400 DSPs across our organization who show up every day with compassion, dedication, and a deep belief in what’s possible. They will be honored all week long for the essential role they play, not only in supporting people with disabilities but also in creating space for independence, belonging, and community. 

What Is a Direct Support Professional?  

At Fello, everything starts with connection, and no one builds connection quite like DSPs.  

A DSP is someone who works directly with people with disabilities to support them in living the life they choose. This can include support with daily routines, building skills for work and community life, providing transportation, coaching, and serving as a trusted partner in setting and reaching personal goals.  

DSPs are there for the big moments—moving into a first home, starting a new job—and the everyday ones, like cooking dinner together or going for a walk outside.  

At Fello, being a DSP is more than just a job—it’s a career rooted in empathy and respect. DSPs are trusted partners, advocates, and problem-solvers, supporting people to make choices, stay connected, and access the opportunities that matter most to them.  

Impact in Action: Lebrone’s Story 

Lebrone, a DSP at Fello, has long been committed to helping people with disabilities live fuller, more connected lives. His journey to Fello was inspired by an earlier experience in the field and a desire to make a difference in his own community.  

“I wanted to continue my efforts to assist the people in the community that I live in, to have a better opportunity of being involved in daily activities,” he explains. 

For Lebrone, the impact of his work goes far beyond daily tasks. One of his most meaningful moments came when the parent of the person he supports passed away.  

“They really leaned on me for emotional support and advice on how to cope with the loss. They looked at me as more than a worker, as a trusted friend,” he recalls. 

Being a DSP is not always easy, but it is a career Lebrone loves.  

“One thing I wish people understood more about being a DSP is the work is not always easy, but it’s rewarding to be able to help other people accomplish personal life goals that at one point may have seemed like a difficult task,” he says.  

The person he supports also shared how much this connection means. “Lebrone has taken me to different museums, and we travel to a lot of places I’ve never been before. He even tries to get me to eat new foods sometimes,” they said. Their favorite activity together is visiting the library. “Every day he picks me up, so I don’t have to stay in the house all day, and we do fun stuff,” they added. 

For Lebrone, these moments—big or small—are what being a DSP is all about: building trust, creating opportunities, and showing up for someone in ways that truly matter. 

Showing Our Gratitude  

Throughout DSP Recognition Week, we will be celebrating in ways big and small to show our appreciation. Fello will host three food truck days open to DSPs, the people they support, and all our employees who support and lead behind the scenes.  

Fello is also providing bonuses to DSPs as a thank-you for the incredible impact they make every day. These efforts are just one way we’re honoring the dedication and heart our DSPs bring to Fello. 

Join Us in Saying Thank You 

This week, and every week, we invite you to celebrate the DSPs who make a difference. Send a note, share a story, or simply say, “We see you, and we appreciate what you do.” 

To every DSP at Fello: Thank you for your commitment, your compassion, and your belief in what’s possible.