Empowering Lives: How Direct Support Professionals Make a Difference

Josh (left) & Nathan (right)

Meet Nathan and Josh. Josh has been working with Nathan as his independent provider for over a year, however they knew each other long before that from attending the same church. When Josh became an independent provider, the two working together happened rather quickly.

Now, Nathan and Josh spend a lot of time together. Josh assists Nathan with his medical needs, transports him to different events, and grocery shops for him. “It’s great to be able to get out and do stuff now,” Nathan said. Prior to working with Josh, Nathan found it challenging to travel or participate in events without a dedicated provider. This year, Nathan has even joined the Pin Pushers bowling league.

“He’s a real friendly guy,” Nathan said when asked what he likes most about Josh. “He’s helped me gain more freedom. We even saw fireworks in Belle Center.” Having a provider like Josh has allowed Nathan to expand his horizons and try a number of new events and activities, like attending a Lima Locos baseball game, participating in the All Abilities Kayaking, and singing karaoke at Kessler Estates.

For Josh, becoming an independent Direct Support Professional has been life changing. “I love it, it’s my most favorite job ever,” Josh said. “I didn’t think I had the right mindset or personality for it, but I ended up trying it anyway… Now here we are, just hit a year and a half now of me being a provider.” When asked what his favorite aspect of working with Nathan was, Josh said, “He has the lightest humor, I could say anything and he just laughs. He has a great personality.”

What sets Josh apart as an excellent provider is his ability to quickly build connections with the people he works with. In addition to working with Nathan, Josh also supports six other people throughout the week. He is kind, personable and willing to go the extra mile to accommodate the desires of those he serves. Because of his outstanding care in the last year, Josh was honored as a DSP MVP at the Board’s annual DSP Luncheon on Wednesday, September 10. Both Nathan and Josh demonstrate the importance of a strong relationship between a person served and their provider in ensuring the individual leads an independent and fulfilling life.