CASPER, WY — On September 16, Wyoming Community Service Providers gathered at The M in downtown Casper to celebrate the dedication of 16 direct support professionals (DSPs) from across the state. The banquet, featuring a plated dinner and refreshments, honored each honoree for their daily work with vulnerable individuals who rely on their care.

Recognizing the Lifeblood of Wyoming’s Care System

Bob Sell, CEO for regional services of Wyoming Community Service Providers, opened the ceremony by noting the organization’s nearly 50‑year commitment to advancing the community provider system and securing Medicaid reimbursement rates for providers. He emphasized that “direct support professionals are the lifeblood of our system and the key to receiving quality care.”

Sean Griffin, CEO of Community Injury Services, spoke passionately about the importance of the DSP role. He described the work as “nothing more important than a direct service professional in this field, working with people that are vulnerable, that depend on you, that become a part of your family.” Griffin outlined the breadth of responsibilities DSPs handle, from medication administration and severe‑behavior management to intimate hygiene, feeding, and tube feeding.

PRIDE Acronym Highlights Core Values

Griffin introduced the acronym PRIDE to illustrate the qualities DSPs embody:

• P – Patience with the people they serve.
• R – Respect for clients and coworkers.
• I – Innovation in improving lives.
• D – Dependability for clients and teammates.
• E – Empathy, understanding where people are coming from.

He reminded the audience that DSPs face unpredictable challenges, extensive paperwork, documentation, billing, and behavior‑plan development, yet they consistently uphold professional standards.

Elected Officials Praise the Workforce

State Senator Tim Salazar, Representative Trey Sherwood, and Representative Abby Angelos each delivered remarks underscoring the essential nature of the DSP workforce. Angelos quoted Mr. Rodgers, saying, “Look for the helpers; there, you will find hope,” and added that DSPs bring hope to individuals with disabilities, their families, and the broader community.

DSP of the Year Honored

Elizabeth Forslund, Section Administrator for Home and Community‑Based Services with the Wyoming Department of Health, highlighted the extraordinary dedication of the year’s honoree. She noted the recipient’s 17‑year tenure in a field known for high turnover, praising their innovative activities that promote real‑world independence in safe, supportive environments.

The ceremony concluded with a rousing ovation for Candice “Candy” Olson, who was named Direct Support Professional of the Year.

Looking Ahead

Wyoming Community Service Providers announced plans to continue advocating for higher Medicaid reimbursement rates and stronger support for the DSP workforce. The organization encourages community members to learn more about the event and upcoming initiatives by visiting wyomingcsp.org or calling 307‑760‑2087.

Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.