It's National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week and we're celebrating by shining the spotlight on some of our staff members. Read on to hear their stories...

Kathleen Sutphin can thank her parents for some valuable advice that she puts into use every day on the job as a Direct Support Professional (DSP).

Kathleen Sutphin, left, with Lisa, a resident of NIPD/NJ's Westwood Apartments.

"My parents always taught me that you can't fail if you never stop trying," Kathleen says. "I encourage the individuals I support at my program to think that way, too."

Kathleen is part of a team of DSPs who provide 24/7 support at the National Institute for People with Disabilities of New Jersey's (NIPD/NJ) Westwood Apartments, home to 16 individuals.

She is among thousands of DSPs throughout New Jersey on the front line helping individuals in their homes, apartments, on the job, in the community. The week of Sept. 9, 2012 marks the start of National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week.

"I have learned that we as DSPs have an impact in this field on a daily basis," Kathleen said. "This job isn't just dispensing medications or bringing the people we support to appointments; it's being a role model, an advocate, and a counselor to our guys. I think it's one of the most important jobs out there."