Celebrating the Next Generation of DSP II Graduates at Compass Inc.
On August 7th, Compass Inc.’s main office was full of excitement as we gathered to celebrate the latest cohort of graduates from our Direct Support Professional (DSP) II program. Over 75 guests, including graduates from previous cohorts and our management and administrative staff, joined us to mark this significant milestone.
The DSP II program is an initiative designed to elevate the skills of our DSPs, ensuring they are well-equipped to advocate for and empower the people they support. Through live class sessions, assignments, and self-paced online content, participants engage with topics such as advocacy, ethics, person-centered practice, communication, community inclusion, and more. This program extends beyond the standard training for direct support professionals, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with the people we serve.
As our graduates reflected on their experiences during the ceremony, a common theme emerged: the transformative power of the DSP II program. Many shared how the training has reshaped their approach to their work, teaching them to see beyond diagnoses and connect with the people they support on a more profound level. One graduate expressed this sentiment by saying, “Before I joined the DSP II program, I used to just go through the motions. But after taking the class, I learned a lot about how to plan with the people we support and how to truly be in the community with them. It’s changed me a lot.”
“Before I joined the DSP II program, I used to just go through the motions. But after taking the class, I learned a lot about how to plan with the people we support and how to truly be in the community with them. It’s changed me a lot.”
Another graduate expressed gratitude to Compass for its continued support, both during the training and throughout their career.
“Compass has been there for us, even when things were tough. I left during the pandemic and was home for three years, but when I came back, they opened their arms and welcomed me. I’m very thankful for that.”
The impact of the DSP II training extends beyond Compass. Several graduates shared how they’ve taken what they’ve learned into their communities, becoming advocates for people with disabilities in their hometowns. One graduate noted, “The DSP II program didn’t just teach me how to support people here; it taught me how to go back to my community and educate others.”
As we look to the future, the success of our DSP II graduates shows the importance ofcontinued investment in training and development. Our dedicated staff are the heart of Compass Inc., and their commitment to growth ensures that we can fulfill our mission tosupport people to realize their dreams and lead fulfilling lives as valued members of their community.
We are incredibly proud of all our DSP II graduates and excited to see the positive impact they will continue to make. Congratulations to all of them on this well-deserved achievement!
