A Rewarding Career
DSPs Change Lives, Including Their Own
The pandemic has forever changed our lives. Social distancing, wearing masks, the list goes on. It has also allowed us to pause and consider what is important to us, personally and professionally.
In a recent Prudential survey, 48% of respondents shared they are reconsidering what they would like to do in the future professionally. The survey also shows 53% of American workers, if given the opportunity, would be interested in training for a career in a different field or industry.
You may be one of those people exploring your career options.
Do you feel fulfilled when you help others achieve their personal goals? Are you often called a nurturer or natural helper? Would you like flexible hours so you can pursue a fulfilling career while continuing education or caring for your own family?
You may want to consider becoming a Direct Support Professional (DSP).
A DSP works with individuals who have developmental or intellectual disabilities. They provide support with daily living needs, assisting individuals in leading self-directed lives. This support could include direct care, active treatment, cooking, laundry, and transportation.
In addition to fulfilling work, DSPs are in high demand. The need is there currently and is expected to grow 36% by 2028. This growth will produce 1,185,800 job opportunities!
Of Echoing Hills’ current DSPs, just over 150 have joined the team since the start of the pandemic. Kelly Rubrecht and Cierra Cooper are two of those DSPs.
They had not been DSPs before starting with Echoing Hills. Kelly was a stay-at-home mom for a year and a half, working in the mortgage department of a bank for five years before that. Cierra worked with her husband at their flooring business. Both were ready for a change.
On becoming a DSP, Cierra shares, “It wasn’t in my plan to pursue becoming a DSP. Quite honestly, it was just a local employment opportunity for me. I wasn’t even sure what a DSP was or what it meant to be one.” She’s glad she took the leap of faith.
“My experience so far has been a positive one. I have met many wonderful people, from my coworkers to those I care for. I thoroughly enjoy spending time with the individuals and becoming friends with them. I’ve only been with Echoing Hills for three and a half months but have played cards with some of the best jokesters around, prayed with the most compassionate and caring people I’ve ever met, and I’ve even learned things about myself while serving others. It amazes me how they help me to grow as a person when I’m there to help them.”
Kelly describes her experience as positive as well, “I honestly love my job. I get excited to come to work and spend time with some of my favorite people in this world. I have enjoyed getting to know the individuals and building a relationship/friendship with them.”
Are you interested but worried about whether you could do the job? Kelly and Cierra encourage you to try!
“Just do it! You won’t regret it,” says Kelly. “It is a lot of work, but it is so rewarding. When someone learns a new skill, solves a problem, or does something helpful, their reaction is everything. They become so happy and proud of themselves. It is one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve ever had, aside from being a mom, of course!”
Cierra adds, “To anyone considering becoming a DSP, I would say it isn’t for the faint of heart, but there isn’t a more rewarding career. You may surprise yourself and make some amazing friends.”
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We encourage you to find out more about Echoing Hills and the DSP opportunities available by visiting our website. DSPs – a rewarding career that make a difference!
