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Your DSPs are the backbone of your organization, working tirelessly to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
With the demand for DSPs expected to grow by 35% over the next decade, recognizing their hard work has never been more important.
As DSP Recognition Week (September 7-13, 2025) approaches, you might be wondering how to show your appreciation without breaking the budget.
At SETWorks, we understand this challenge deeply. Many of our employees are former DSPs, so we know firsthand the value these incredible professionals bring to the table.
In this article, we’ll share free and low-cost ideas to help you celebrate your DSPs in a way that resonates with their dedication and hard work. From perks like flexible scheduling and special employee discounts, to simple gestures of gratitude, these ideas will help you show your team how much they’re valued.
1. Write personalized thank you notes
The average worker receives about 40 emails a day. By contrast, a typical household receives just two pieces of personal mail each month. This means that a handwritten thank you note is sure to stand out.
Handwritten thank you notes from a manager, supervisor, or even clients can make DSPs feel truly appreciated. Personal messages highlighting specific achievements or qualities can be particularly meaningful — so grab a stack of cards and some stamps and start writing!
2. Create a gratitude video
Another impactful and modern approach is to compile short video messages from clients, family members, or colleagues expressing their thanks and appreciation for DSPs’ work. With the ease of smartphones and the popularity of platforms like TikTok, creating and sharing these videos is simpler than ever.
Video allows for a personal touch, letting you to capture genuine emotions and expressions of gratitude. Plus, it’s something your DSPs can watch over and over, savoring the heartfelt thanks and recognition from those they’ve impacted.
3. Offer professional development opportunities
When you think about ways to recognize your DSPs’ hard work and commitment, professional development may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, providing opportunities for learning and career growth shows that you recognize DSPs’ potential, and you’re invested in their success.
Luckily, there are many free or low-cost training resources that can help DSPs enhance their skills and advance their careers. Or you can set up internal mentoring sessions or free workshops that offer career development tips. By providing access to these resources, you not only support individual DSPs’ growth but also strengthen your team’s overall skill and engagement.
4. Host an award ceremony
Recognizing your DSPs with personalized certificates of appreciation is a meaningful way to celebrate their unique contributions. Each certificate can highlight specific achievements or qualities that make the individual DSP stand out — for instance, the Innovative Problem-Solver Award for DSPs who bring creative solutions to challenges, or the Team Player Award for DSPs who excel in teamwork and collaboration.
You can create these certificates using free online design tools like Canva, which offers a range of templates and customization options to make your certificates look professional and polished. Once designed, you can print the certificates on high-quality paper or cardstock for a more formal presentation. Then organize a small ceremony or team meeting to present these certificates to your staff.
5. Create a discount booklet
Another thoughtful way to show appreciation for your DSPs is to create a discount booklet featuring special offers from local businesses. Start by reaching out to local restaurants, coffee shops, gyms, gas stations, and retail stores to see if they would be willing to offer discounts or coupons specifically for your DSPs. Many businesses are happy to support community heroes and provide perks as a way to give back.
Once you’ve gathered these generous offers, compile them into a neatly designed booklet using a tool like Canva. This booklet can be a tangible token of appreciation that your DSPs will use throughout the year.
6. Offer flexible scheduling
Ask almost any DSP and they’ll tell you that flexible scheduling is at the top of their wish list. Giving your DSPs more control over their schedules is a great way to reward their hard work and significantly enhance their job satisfaction.
Allowing DSPs to swap shifts or choose preferred times can be done without additional expense. Likewise, if the nature of the job allows, allowing DSPs to meet with clients virtually and work from home for a day can be a low-cost benefit.
7. Encourage passion projects
Empowering DSPs to lead or participate in projects that align with their passions is a meaningful way to show you value their unique contributions.
For example, if a DSP has a keen interest in mental health, they could provide feedback on a new employee wellness program or help organize support groups for clients. If they’re passionate about community engagement, they might help lead outreach efforts or partnerships with local organizations.
By empowering your DSPs to pursue their passions, you not only show trust in their abilities but also foster a deeper sense of ownership and satisfaction in their roles.
What’s next?
So there you have it—seven ways to show your DSPs they’re valued, appreciated, and supported. Whether you implement just one of these ideas or several, you’re sure to make a meaningful impact on your team’s morale and engagement. For additional resources and events that raise awareness and celebrate the contributions of DSPs and individuals with disabilities, download the free Disability Events Calendar.
Free Resource: 2026 Disability Events Calendar
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