Essential:  crucial; absolutely necessary; indispensable; extremely important.

That is the definition of essential.  During this pandemic we have heard about “essential employees” and their role in keeping the world moving when many people were asked to stay home.  Our Direct Support Professionals, Program Coordinators, Program Managers and Nurses have been essential in helping us continue to provide supports during this crazy time in our country and the world.  That definition describes perfectly how we feel about our Direct Support staff. 

Whereas some professions suddenly became known as essential by the general public, we have always known how essential our direct support staff are to our mission.  We are now, and always will be, grateful for our DSPs.  They have filled all the shifts; they have helped to reduce the boredom of being stuck at home; they have helped to keep everyone we support COVID free-until today.  They are our ESSENTIAL HEROES!

During the week of September 13 - 19, we celebrate them during Direct Support Professional Recognition week.  We do this annually, but I believe this year requires that we do everything that we can to let our DSPs know that individuals supported by Bear Creek Services have the best quality of life because of their dedication.

I hope that you will find the time to thank them and let them know just how essential they are!

Linda Driessen
Executive Director
Bear Creek Services