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National Direct Support Professional Week officially is observed September 9-15, 2018, but at Easterseals we appreciate and recognize the contributions of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) every day.

Jack Witzman knew something was not right when he and his wife, Jackie, were driving home from the store one day and, suddenly, Jackie did not know where she was going. Jackie was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, confirming his suspicion.

Easterseals is meeting the needs of their community through their life-changing Children’s Therapies, including Applied Behavior Analysis therapy (ABA). Before ABA, five-year-old Efe Ozer, of Wilmington, DE, was unable to communicate his needs and rightfully so, became frustrated. His mom, Sel Ozer, was so grateful to find Easterseals services to give their family the tools they needed to help Efe.

A diagnosis does not define who you are or what you can be. Kirstin and Matt learned this when their son, Bryson, was born with TAR syndrome, a genetic condition so rare that even the doctors did not know what to expect.

Below is a list of common questions we hear at Easterseals, and their answers.

When Gabriela “Gg” started attending Camp Fairlee she was afraid of heights and unsure of herself. As she stepped off the edge of the zipline climbing tower her heart was pounding, but as she flew through the air, all of her worries disappeared.

Easterseals Camp Fairlee, which kicks off in a few weeks, is a place where children and adults, like Jake can grow as individuals, make lifelong connections, and find independence. Jake is able to soar on a zip line, sing his heart out in “Fairlee’s Got Talent” and savor new foods in a safe and nurturing environment. Meanwhile, his parents, Jen and Frank, get the break they need.

Video Resources for Families and Caregivers

People with disabilities, like Jamie, are among the hardest working employees in the workforce. Yet, often, they are overlooked. Thankfully, with the help of Easterseals Supported Employment program, Jamie, is employed in a job he loves.

Brian brings determination to his job where he works five days a week as a member of a supportive team in the Village Café. During the summer, when Brian is not working at the cafe, he enjoys his days at Easterseals Adult Day program where he is able to connect with other friends and volunteer in the community at places like the Modern Maturity Center.

Stevie has been bringing smiles to the faces of staff and fellow participants at his Easterseals Adult Day program in Georgetown since 2007. The program not only gives him the opportunity to socialize with his peers and remain a part of his community but also gives his parents a much-needed break from full-time caregiving.

For twelve-year-old Joel, who uses a wheelchair, the week he spends at Camp Fairlee every summer is the highlight of his year. He is able to experience independence and adventure at Easterseals fully accessible camp.