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Direct Support Professional Appreciation Week 2026
"When staff are a part of my day, it makes it more meaningful!"
Karis is celebrating Direct Support Professional Appreciation Week from May 10-16, 2026! We'd like to extend a warm and heartfelt thank you to all the DSPs for sharing their gifts and time with the wonderful people we support. Your careers have a positive impact on our communities.
"There is a great sense of purpose in being a DSP, whether it's the challenging or rewarding part of the job," said Jaron. "Every day there is an opportunity to make a difference in someone's life."
Jaron is a direct support professional (DSP) in Ontario, supporting people who live in Supported Independent Living homes and apartments, like Justin.
Jaron's favourite part of his career is seeing people - both people supported and fellow staff members - accomplish things they never thought they'd be able to achieve.
"I think it's cool that my job is quite literally helping people," Jaron shares with us. "My success is in watching others thrive and overcome obstacles. This has profoundly changed me and equipped me even in my personal life to find creative ways to overcome challenges and be a better person as I serve others in my life."
"I really enjoy doing this, getting to put smiles on people's faces," Shawntaeu said, reflecting on her role as a direct support professional, and now as an employment coordinator in Toronto, ON.
For three years, Shawntaeu supported people in group living and then supported people who use services at Karis Toronto Community Participation Supports. These days, Shawntaeu's time is split between Karis Toronto, supporting people through the job readiness program, and Humber College where she supports students in the Karis and Humber culinary and baking programs.
"My favourite part is interacting with the people we support. Getting to see what they enjoy, and getting to bring joy into their lives. Now as an employment coordinator, I like being able to help people in their pursuit to get a job," Shawntaeu said.
"This is God's calling to me," she shared. "Everyone is equal, even if others might not see it that way."
Happy DSP Appreciation Week to all DSPs whose careers help create communities where everybody belongs! Interested in learning more about becoming a DSP? Visit our careers page to see opportunities near you.