This
February
at MOKA!
 
An innovative approach to DSP education, advocacy opportunities, and uplifting staff shout-outs—read for the latest on MOKA's Direct Support Professionals. Plus, mark your calendars for an event you won't want to miss!
 
Dear First name / Partner in Progress
 
More than 350 Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are part of the MOKA family. They are some of the most hard-working, compassionate, and dedicated individuals on earth. Through the ups and downs of life, DSPs care for our loved ones with disabilities with grace and integrity. DSPs are skilled in care at a medical and social level, often acting not only as caregivers, but also friends and confidants to the people we serve. They work every day to create an environment where the people we serve can live their most empowered, independent, autonomous lives. Read on to learn more about the DSPs at MOKA and how you can support advocating for them in this challenging fiscal landscape. 

GRCC Training program:

 
MOKA is honored to play a part in the creation of a DSP Certification Program at GRCC in partnership with other area providers: Benjamin's Hope, Heritage Homes, and Harbor House Ministries. The creation of this program is a positive step toward recognizing the the importance of DSP work and professionalizing the career.
 
Do you know anyone seeking a rewarding career making a difference in the lives of people in our community?  Explore the Grand Rapids Community College Direct Support Professional (DSP) Training Program! DSPs play a pivotal role in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This course provides the fundamental knowledge and clinical skills necessary to be an effective DSP. Watch the below video to learn more about this important program!
 
 

DSPs: People who care

 
Each day, MOKA's Direct Support Professionals do important, lifechanging work to support the people we serve. They go above and beyond every step of the way. Enjoy some peer-to-peer testimonials showing their caring nature—a fundamental part of who DSPs are.
 
The Team at Forest trail
"A DSP cannot show up to work and give 50% effort. Forest Trail Staff show up every day ready to embrace what the shift will bring with all of their energy. They give 100% to the people we serve by personalizing outings in the community, supporting personal interests in crafts, maintaining relationships important to them, and promoting health & wellness with regular exercise."
Allie E.
 "…is the epitome of grace. She is something like an Olympian the way she navigates around obstacles we face every day in the home. It seems as if she was made for the field, and it makes others stop and reevaluate themselves and how to be even better."
Dan O.
"Rain, snow, sleet, or shine, Dan will grill for the residents because he knows how much they enjoy helping him. Even if weather is bad, he will take the grill to the garage and have the residents come out to help him."
annie m.
"…is the most dedicated, hard working person to ever have entered the home. Her vast knowledge helps others improve to be the best they can be, not only in the workplace, but overall. If everyone had even one third of her capabilities, they would still be over qualified."

show DSPs the love they give everyday: advocacy opportunities

DSPs need your help!  It is absolutely essential for Michigan to ensure a $20/hour starting wage for the state’s 50,000 DSPs in the behavioral health system in the Fiscal Year 2025 state budget. 
 
 

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