This week is National Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Week, and New Hope is celebrating the nearly 200 staff members who provide life-changing care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DSPs assist with daily living needs, encourage employment opportunities, and promote independence and community connection. Collectively, New Hope’s staff represents more than 1,400 years of service. New Hope CEO Jenn Quigley says, “DSPs make New Hope possible. They are the hands, hearts, and voices of our mission, showing up every day with compassion, creativity, and dedication. Whether it’s supporting daily routines, celebrating personal milestones, or helping someone achieve a dream job, DSPs enrich lives in ways that inspire all of us. We are deeply grateful for their work and the values they live out every day.” To celebrate, New Hope is hosting theme days each day this week, including Superhero Day on Monday, Team Spirit Day on Tuesday, Heart of the Mission Day on Wednesday, Good Vibes Only Day on Thursday, Make It Happen Day on Friday, and Comfort and Care Day on Saturday. New Hope will close out the celebration the following weekend with a free showing of “Unseen,” a documentary about the challenges caregivers can face. The film begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Fridley Theater in Carroll. Immediately afterward, they’ll host a community discussion with caregiver experts. At 1 p.m., the community is invited to New Hope’s main Carroll campus for its annual Color Round walk/run at 1 p.m. and Superhero Bingo in the activities building. The family-friendly event will feature bubbles, balloons, and confetti. National Direct Support Professionals Week runs Sept. 7-13.
