AHRC NYC professionals, leadership, and representatives from OPWDD gathered at AHRC NYC Headquarters to commemorate the latest class of NADSP E-Badge Academy successes. This nationally recognized credentialing program has provided dozens of AHRC NYC employees engaged in direct support to enhance their professional development and discover new strategies for supporting people with disabilities and their colleagues. OPWDD entered a three-year pilot partnership with NADSP in 2022, with 17 statewide organizations, including AHRC NYC, chosen to participate.
Adrienne Mazeau, Deputy Commissioner for Administration, announced that more than half of the three dozen-plus professionals in attendance were receiving DSP-3 certification from NADSP, the highest possible level. “Everyone at OPWDD is thrilled to see this happening today,” Adrienne said. “New York State is leading the nation in this initiative, and we are hearing from other states about how to get their DSPs credentialed too.”
Reflections from Credentialed AHRC NYC Professionals
“Until I came in contact with this training, I thought I was one of the best Direct Support Professionals,” said Israel Davies, Senior Job Coach at EBS Staten Island. “But when you go through the modules, you learn to really appreciate this program. I have no regrets. If you are in this room, and you have not contemplated enrolling in this program, the time is now.”
Matthew Halder, Community Support Supervisor, Fisher Day Services said, “Since participating in the NADSP program, I have been promoted to my current role and I am now overseeing 26 caseloads and leading six CSPs. I found that E-badge learning helped me grow my knowledge and wisdom about the people we support. That’s why I want to continue these courses and I am determined to graduate from the entire program.“
Shenien Malloy, Senior Job Coach HIRE, EBS-Manhattan said, “My experience with the NADSP program was enlightening. I learned that you’re never too experienced to learn something new in the industry where you’ve worked for many years. The industry has changed tremendously since my arrival 23 years ago. I’m thankful and grateful for the opportunity AHRC has provided for me.”
Mutsuki Gibo, CSP, Kings Highway Day Services said, “I gained confidence and patience in supporting people and, most importantly, it trained me to visualize the possibilities of change. I learned from the people I support; they are the most amazing teachers I could have.”
Scott Diaz, DSP, Munson Residence said, “Following my participation in the NADSP E-Badge Academy, I have grown profoundly on a professional and personal level. I gained insight into my work through reflection on my past experiences, which I then drafted into testimonials. I am eager to see what the future holds for me as a DSP and my involvement with NADSP moving forward.”
For more information about AHRC NYC’s NADSP partnership, contact Lindsay.Murray @ahrcnyc.org, Project Manager for NADSP E-Badge Academy.
