AHRC New York City is one of 17 New York-based organizations selected to participate in a pilot credentialing program organized by the National Association of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). Through an agreement with the NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, grants have been established to provide human service organizations with the opportunity for their employees to pursue NADSP Certification through the NADSP E-Badge Academy, without having to pay its associated costs during the grant period. This project is the result of funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, passed in 2021. 

“A strong workforce is essential for our ongoing quality,” said Elizabeth Lynam, AHRC NYC’s Chief Program Officer. “This program with NADSP will provide AHRC NYC direct support professionals and front-line supervisors with the knowledge and skills to continue advocating for people who are neurodiverse to lead full and equitable lives.” 

The pilot project will allow the 17 participating groups, all of whom employ DSPs, to offer some of their staff members with the opportunity to receive NADSP Certification, providing national recognition for the contributions and competence of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who apply for and meet the certification standards.  

AHRC NYC and NADSP have previously partnered in the Advance and Earn program, a Department of Youth and Community Development initiative that in part assists people 18 and over with a high-school degree or equivalency in obtaining NADSP certification while interning at AHRC NYC programs. Now, as many as 80 DSPs and frontline supervisors will have the chance to be certified as well. 

Staff members from AHRC NYC will be accepted into the program on a rolling basis to allow for the maximum number of participants. The agency intends to use a cohort-based model, allowing a group of learners to progress through their goals together. Participants will use online communities such as Microsoft Teams and SharePoint to facilitate a collaborative learning environment. The agency will provide laptops and other technology as needed to allow participants to complete their required coursework.  

Additionally, AHRC NYC intends to create a mentoring program matching DSPs and supervisors who achieved NADSP certification with new program participants. Peer mentors can provide stress management tips, demonstrate positive working/study habits, and offer targeting support upon request.