Stay Informed
Did you know that 23% of adults in Rhode Island reported having a disability? That equates to almost 1 in 4 of all adults. (BRFSS, 2020) The Rhode Island State Workforce Initiative is here to create a sustainable, comprehensive and diverse DSP workforce who will have the knowledge and skills to provide high quality services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities. Use this page to learn about DSP workforce efforts and monitoring outcomes, see the latest announcements, and give us your feedback!
Stay Engaged
Interested in getting involved in a workgroup? This page will tell you everything to know about engagement as well as when and where the next webinar, peer action call or office hours will take place! You can also access recordings and materials from past events, as well as letting us know your thoughts via a quick survey.
DSP Workforce Resource Hub
Do you know how to properly recruit for an open DSP position? What are key things to include, and what should you avoid? What is considered a realistic DSP job preview? Get all these questions answered and more by looking at our Rhode Island Briefs. You can also take a look into our SWI, General, and Topical Workforce Resources to get a better understanding training and development aspects of the initiative.
Becoming a DSP
Did you know that the starting wage for a DSP professional in Rhode Island was recently increased to $20/hour with no college degree required? Join in on the efforts by becoming a DSP! Learn about what the job entails and determine if you would be a good fit.
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Testimonials
"Being a DSP is fun and exciting! Each day is a new adventure when you're helping someone live their best life. Being a DSP is difficult and hard - it causes you to grow better as a person. There isn't a better way to spend your work day."
-- Britney, DSP in Rhode Island
“My job [as a DSP] is to help the ones I serve to achieve the goals they want to achieve.”
--Kia, DSP in New York
“You are directly affecting another life in a positive way.”
--Kenneth, DSP in Massachusetts
“DSP role is complex. Sometimes you are a teacher, a role model, a confidant, or a mentor.”
--Dorothy, DSP in Maryland