The Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota (ARRM) has announced eight outstanding Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) with awards, kicking off its DSP Recognition Week celebrations.
As Minnesota’s largest trade association for organizations providing home and community-based services for people with disabilities, ARRM established the “ARRM Cares Award” to recognize DSPs who go above and beyond in their roles at member organizations.
Kim Sirek of Mount Olivet Rolling Acres in Victoria was one of eight honorees in Minnesota this year.
“DSPs are the industry’s front line. When we talk about supporting people with disabilities to live full and meaningful lives, it’s DSPs who show up and make that possible every single day,” said Sue Schettle, CEO of ARRM. “None of us could do our jobs without DSPs.”
All awardees demonstrate a commitment to quality service and are the best the disability services field has to offer. Each winner receives a $1,000 award from ARRM in addition to a commemorative plaque.
“Many ARRM members look forward to DSP week and the announcement of ARRM Cares winners each year,” said ARRM Board President Anna Hegland. “It’s important that we all set aside time to recognize those whose efforts drive our industry.”
Founded in 1970, ARRM lead positive industry reforms that support Minnesotans with disabilities.
About ARRM
ARRM is a nonprofit association of nearly 200 provider organizations, businesses and advocates dedicated to leading the advancement of home and community-based services supporting people living with disabilities in their pursuit of meaningful lives. Founded in 1970, ARRM continues to lead advocacy and training for positive industry reforms that support Minnesotans with disabilities through supporting community inclusion and representing home and community-based services providers.
About DSP Week
Direct Support Professional Recognition Week highlights the dedicated, innovative direct support workforce that is the heart and soul of supports for people with disabilities. Per ANCOR, the nationwide association for home and community-based service providers, “Your celebrations of the DSPs at the heart of our field are part of a nationwide party we throw every year to showcase the amazing and often unsung work of these incredible professionals and mark just a small fraction of the recognition that they deserve throughout the year.” On September 5, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed a proclamation declaring September 7-13 “DSP Recognition Week” in the state.
About the ARRM Cares Award
The ARRM Cares Award was established to recognize professionals from ARRM members who provide direct care and demonstrate a commitment to quality services. All nominees are recognized by ARRM and their employers as demonstrating outstanding and extraordinary dedication, innovation and skill. The Rising Star Award was developed in 2021 and recognizes DSPs with three or fewer years of experience. All winners receive a $1,000 award and are celebrated in a special ceremony.
