New Hope of Indiana Asks Community to Recognize Frontline Caregivers

INDIANAPOLIS – New Hope of Indiana is asking Hoosiers this week to thank underrecognized frontline caregivers serving the 40,000 Indiana residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities every day. These caregivers, or Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), have continued to do their jobs despite the COVID-19 pandemic. This week is National Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week. ​

DSPs empower those with disabilities to live, learn and be a part of the workforce. They assist the individuals they serve with daily living activities, transportation and general behavior support. They also help create a feeling of home while building friendships with those they serve.  DSPs enable family members of those with disabilities to take a break, go to work or school, or care for their other children.

“These caregivers have worked around the clock throughout the pandemic to serve our most vulnerable neighbors,” said New Hope of Indiana CEO Allison Wharry. “They worked nonstop when the rest of the world stayed home to ensure that Hoosiers with disabilities were comfortable and felt loved. That’s why we’re asking the community to show their gratitude to them this week.”

New Hope is asking Hoosiers to send notes of gratitude and encouragement to DSPs via email to the address social@NewHopeofIndiana.org. They can also honk when they pass by a group home or other service location or donate to the organization in honor of DSPs and their dedicated work.

“The smallest gestures mean so much to these hard-working, selfless caregivers,” said Wharry. “Whatever you can do to show these frontline workers that you support them this week will be appreciated.”

New Hope of Indiana provides community-based residential services and a variety of therapy, day, vocational and transition services for Hoosiers with developmental disabilities.
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For over forty years, New Hope of Indiana has supported individuals and families, encouraging them to live their most independent lives. Through services for individuals with disabilities, counseling for families in the child welfare system and advocacy efforts, New Hope of Indiana is making an impact in our communities every day. For more information, visit www.newhopeofindiana.org.