Get ready for a new way to recognize the exceptional Direct Support Professionals in your life
Direct Support Professionals work hard to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s helping out with daily tasks, overcoming obstacles or being passionate advocates, they regularly go above and beyond to provide around the clock support to people who need it — but they don’t get the kind of public recognition they deserve.
So, we’ve created an opportunity for us all to come together and show support for the people who support us, the people we love, and our community.
Alongside Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, we’re introducing a brand-new initiative, the DSP of Distinction Awards.
Show your support by nominating an outstanding DSP today! To show them how much of a difference they’re making for people in their community, each winner will receive a $250 Visa gift card donated by the sponsor organizations and will be acknowledged in social posts as well as potential press releases for the initiative.
Awards Categories:
There are five (5) awards categories for the DSP of Distinction Awards, to help us recognize one (1) individual in each category for being shining examples in the industry, exuding some of the key skills that make a great Direct Support Professional.
Adaptability Award
This DSP accepts every challenge thrown at them, making a special effort to step outside of their comfort zone and tackle unexpected obstacles.
Positivity Award
This DSP brightens the room, boosts morale and inspires smiles with their positive outlook and can-do attitude.
Empathy Award
This DSP is known for leading with their heart. Sensitivity, vulnerability and a willingness to listen are their greatest strengths.
Advocacy Award
This DSP raises their voice, has a deep sense of justice and the bravery to speak up in service of others.
Community Award
This DSP has a talent for bringing people together, creating connections that build villages in benefit of the people they support.
How to Nominate a DSP:
Submissions are currently closed.
How we’ll select a winner:
One (1) recipient will receive an award (and a prize!) for each of the five (5) categories to recognize their outstanding effort in supporting others.
Representatives from Abilities Manitoba and the Alliance of Direct Support Professionals of Manitoba will review the award submissions and and so long as they meet the basic criteria, the DSP will be entered into a draw. Our representatives will contact employers of those shortlisted for an award. Winners must be in good standing with their employer at the time of the announcement.
To ensure the awards reflect DSPs’ presence in the entire province, we will give preference to representing winners across basic geographic regions of the province, i.e., Winnipeg, South-East Manitoba, Western Manitoba, Northern Manitoba.
Each winner will receive a $250 Visa gift card donated by the sponsor organizations and will be acknowledged in social posts as well as potential press releases for the initiative.
Winners will be announced during Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week — Sept 11-15, 2023
We thank everyone for submitting a nomination, but only those who are selected will be contacted.
Let’s show Direct Support Professionals what it means to us that they show up for others every day. Show your support by nominating an outstanding DSP today!
The DSP of Distinction Awards are an initiative of Abilities Manitoba in partnership with the Alliance of Direct Support Professionals of Manitoba.
Funding Provided by: The Government of Canada | The Manitoba Government