A Message from Commissioner Baer on National Direct Support Recog...

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

This week - September 7-13, 2025 - we proudly celebrate National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. It’s a meaningful time for all of us at the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, our provider agencies, and most importantly, for every person and family who depends on our direct support professionals (DSPs) to live fuller, more independent lives.

Direct Support Professionals are the heart of our mission. Their compassion, dedication, and tireless efforts enable people with developmental disabilities to thrive.  We owe them our deepest gratitude, not just this week but every single day of the year.

I am proud to watch our work to elevate and support the DSP profession gain momentum in New York State.  Through our #MoreThanWork campaign, we have partnered with non-profit agencies across the state to strengthen recruitment and retention—ensuring that those who choose this meaningful work are supported and valued.  At the same time, thousands of DSPs across the State have been earning credits and credentials through our partnerships with the National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) and SUNY.  In fact, for the first time in years, NADSP has chosen to host its annual conference right here in New York State, a clear recognition of the progress we’re making together.  At the conference this week, OPWDD will share our innovative statewide approach to workforce development with DSPs and developmental disability agency leadership from around the Country.

This week, I encourage you to join me in celebrating these incredible professionals. If you see a DSP, please take a moment to say thank you.  Let them know how much their work matters—to people with developmental disabilities, their families and communities, and to all of us.

To the DSPs reading this, please know that your dedication and commitment continues to inspire us. You enrich the lives of New Yorkers with developmental disabilities every day.  We see you, we appreciate you, and we celebrate you.

Happy Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week! Enjoy the recognition and celebration you so richly deserve.

With Gratitude,

Willow Baer 
Commissioner