Direct Support Professional Recognition Week (September 10 – 16) is an annual celebration of direct support professionals or DSPs. Throughout the week, organizations nationwide highlighted the dedicated, and innovative direct support workforce that provides essential support to individuals with disabilities, helping them stay connected to the community and live a quality life people with disabilities.

MOHR was one of many disability service organizations honoring support staff, noting that direct service providers empower individuals with disabilities, allowing them to be active in the community, socialize with their peers, build their skills, enter the workforce, and explore recreational opportunities.  

The 2023 DSP Award winners are: 

Lisa Hartman – PAI 
Michael Walker – Phase – Industries, Inc. 
Ashton Pappas – Opportunity Partners 
Jill Belland – Functional Industries, Inc. 
Cheryl Ray – Trillium Works! 

The MOHR Inspire Award Winner is Tim Schmutzer – Phase – Industries, Inc. “Nothing in this world fills me more than being a part of somebody else’s growth and success. We help people discover themselves and opportunities,” said Schmutzer, executive director of Phase-Industries. 

Mike Walker, who has worked with Phase-Industries for 14 years, said, “Over the years, I see clients change from their shoulders slumped forward to walking around with more of a swagger. I love being a part of that process where we help people find themselves and be happy with what they’re doing.” Mike’s program, Heritage Barnwood, has been an extremely valuable addition to his community.”