Congratulation to the Winner of the DSBunny Basket.
Thank you to Halea from the Autism Project for drawing the winner. We had a great time at the egg hunt. So glad we got to attend and meet new people.
Thank you to all the DSPs and agencies that have donated. As well as all the local business through the hard work of DSPs spreading the word.
Interested In Becoming A Direct Support Professional - DSP?
We are excited that you are interested in working with individuals with developmental disabilities!
There are two primary ways you can provide services: Independent and Agency
What Is an Independent DSP?
An Independent DSP is a self‑employed individual who delivers services directly to people with developmental disabilities.
- Work for themselves — they cannot hire employees to deliver services on their behalf.
- Play an important role in supporting individuals in their daily lives.
- Are responsible for maintaining their own documentation.
- Must stay current with Ohio DODD (Department of Developmental Disabilities) requirements.
- Must complete and maintain all required annual and ongoing training.
- Handle their own taxes as self‑employed workers.
- Are not employees of the State of Ohio, DODD, or the County Board of DD.
Qualifications to Become an Independent DSP
To apply as an Independent Provider, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Have a State of Ohio ID or a valid driver’s license
- Have a high school diploma, GED, or college transcript
- Be able to read, write, and understand English well enough to meet all requirements of Ohio’s administrative rules
- Have — or be able to obtain — CPR and First Aid certification
Working Through an Agency
Are you interested in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities while working for an agency rather than as an Independent Provider?
Scioto County has several local agencies that provide services and are frequently hiring.
The link below will take you to a list of local agencies, including:
- Agency bios
- Services they provide
- Hiring requirements
- Contact information
This resource will help you explore your options and connect with the agency that best fits your interests and skills.
Starting an Agency
Starting an agency to support individuals with developmental disabilities can seem like a challenging process—however, the reward is absolutely worth it. Agencies play a vital role in helping people live meaningful, independent, and fulfilling lives.
Among other requirements, agencies must submit:
- A Certificate of Good Standing from the Ohio Secretary of State showing the agency’s status as a for‑profit corporation, non‑profit corporation, LLC, or LLP.
- Proof of an unencumbered line of credit in the agency’s name for at least $10,000.
- An Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS.
The link below will provide more detailed information about the process and requirements.
About DSP PROUD
Our History
Our Partners
Our History
DSP PROUD was established in response to the growing need for stronger training, recognition, and professional development for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who support individuals with developmental disabilities. From its inception, this organization has been committed not only to strengthening the DSP workforce but also to educating the broader community about the essential and often overlooked role these professionals play.
A core part of our mission has been to elevate the status of Direct Support Professionals and reinforce the fact that DSP work is a true profession—built on skill, compassion, and specialized knowledge. DSP PROUD aims to shine a light on this “hidden industry,” bringing visibility and respect to a field that has long operated behind the scenes.
For many years, DSPs have been the backbone of support services, yet they have frequently lacked access to affordable, high‑quality education and meaningful opportunities for advancement. DSP PROUD was created to address these gaps by expanding access to training, promoting professional growth, and raising public awareness of the critical work DSPs perform every day.
Our Mission
Our Partners
Our History
DSP PROUD is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening, supporting, and empowering Direct Support Professionals who serve individuals with developmental disabilities. Through education, advocacy, and community partnership, DSP PROUD works to elevate the DSP workforce and enhance the quality of care received by the people they support. DSP PROUD provides comprehensive training, resources, and professional development opportunities designed to help DSPs expand their skills, grow in their careers, and confidently meet the diverse needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. By removing barriers to education and offering supports that make learning more accessible, the organization helps ensure DSPs can attend trainings, pursue advancement, and maintain professional excellence.
Our Partners
Our Partners
Our Partners
We are proud to partner with Scioto County DD, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities through high‑quality services, advocacy, and opportunities for meaningful inclusion.
Together, we work to ensure that every person has the support, respect, and resources they need to live a fulfilling and self‑directed life.
Our partnership strengthens our shared commitment to:
- Promoting independence and personal growth
- Providing compassionate, person‑centered supports
- Creating inclusive communities where everyone belongs
- Encouraging collaboration between families, providers, and the people we serve
Through this partnership, we continue to uplift Direct Support Professionals, enhance quality services, and transform lives across Scioto County.
💜 Why Invest in DSP PROUD?
Empowering the Workforce That Transforms Lives 💜💜
When you invest in DSP PROUD, you invest in the people who make independence, growth, and meaningful community participation possible for individuals with developmental disabilities. Direct Support Professionals are the heartbeat of quality care — and your support strengthens their skills, confidence, and long‑term success.
💜 Strengthen the DSP Workforce
Your investment helps provide training, mentorship, and recognition that keeps great DSPs engaged, supported, and prepared to deliver exceptional care.
💜 Elevate Quality of Services
When DSPs feel valued, equipped, and empowered, the people they support experience better outcomes, increased independence, and greater life satisfaction.
💜 Build a More Inclusive Community
By investing in DSP PROUD, you help create a community where everyone is respected, included, and given the opportunity to thrive.
💜 Support Long‑Term Stability
A strong DSP workforce reduces turnover, maintains continuity of care, and strengthens relationships that matter most to the individuals served.
💜 Join Us
Partner with us to empower Direct Support Professionals, uplift the individuals they serve, and strengthen the future of our community.
Together, we can transform lives — one DSP at a time. 💜
DSP PROUD in Pictures
Contact Us
Invest in the Future of DSP PROUD to change Lives
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Downloads
How do I become an Independent Provider - update 09.03.2024 (pdf)
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