BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week runs now through September 13th to celebrate and raise awareness for the vital work of direct support professionals who help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live, work, and connect within their communities.

The Open Door Center in Valley City plans special events throughout the week to recognize and thank our superhero DSPs for their amazing work.

What is a Direct Support Professional (DSP)? Often referred to as DSPs, these employees provide long-term support and services to individuals with disabilities. DSPs offer necessary assistance with daily living activities, job coaching, community access, and enable independence.

There are approximately 5,300 direct support professionals (DSPs) in North Dakota. Open Door Center employs nearly 190 direct support professionals. We were recently notified that one of our very own employees, Melissa Meyer, has been selected as a 2025 NDACP Direct Support Professional of the Year!
Melissa was one of 12 DSPs selected state-wide for this honor. Melissa exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding DSP through her dedication, professionalism, creativity, advocacy, and accomplishments. We are honored to recognize the positive impact she makes every day in the lives of those she supports.

Open Door Center Executive Director Tracey Zaun said, “the Open Door Center simply would not exist without our valued direct support professionals. On behalf of persons supported, Board of Directors, family, friends, and staff of the Open Door Center, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Open Door Center DSPs and those throughout North Dakota for their commitment to excellence. DSPs are real superheroes said Tracey Zaun.”