2025 DSP Recognition Event

Every year, OADSP hosts our Direct Support Professional Recognition Event (DSPRE), and this year marks the 16th such occasion. Join us for the 2025 DSP Recognition Event on Friday September 12, from 10:00 a.m – 3:30 p.m as we roll out the red carpet for Ohio’s incredible DSPs! This year’s event brings the glitz and glamour of HOLLYWOOD to center stage.

OADSP’s annual DSP Recognition Event coincides with the U.S.’s National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. Here in Ohio, you can join hundreds of fellow DSPs and enjoy a fun-filled day that’s FREE for DSPs, thanks in large part to our generous ABC Boosters and contribution from the Ohio DODD.The day includes a keynote, entertainers, and speakers, socializing, games and prizes, and a lunchtime meal, as well as site-specific activities. Hundreds of I/DD professionals gather for the fun and fellowship.

General admission for this event is FREE of charge for all DSPs! A catered buffet lunch is included. 

Hollywood glam encouraged, not required! 

THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT – To be added to the waiting list please email [email protected]

THOMAS AWARDS ~ Nominate a DSP for Excellence in Direct Support

On Friday, September 12, 2025, during OADSP’s annual DSP Recognition Event, we will proudly honor outstanding Direct Support Professionals with awards for excellence in their field.

There are 10 award categories, each aligned with a NADSP Competency Areas (Download), and one exceptional winner will be selected in each category.

Help us celebrate the dedication, skill, and heart of Ohio’s incredible DSP workforce.

Nominations open July 16th through 5:00 PM EST on August 15, 2025.
Winners will be notified in advance via email. RULES (Download)

(Contact information is not shared, but descriptive information may be publicized on OADSP’s online platforms and social media accounts. Self-nominations are not accepted.)

DSP RECOGNITION EVENT – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring the individuals I support, or my family?
No. The Direct Support Professional Recognition Event is exactly that: it’s an event exclusively for Direct Support Professionals (and independent providers working as DSPs). This is a day just for DSPs, to relax, rejuvenate, and bask in recognition away from the day-to-day routine.

Can I show up any time that day?
No. The Recognition Event is a planned event that begins at 10 a.m. and concludes at 3:30pm, and includes presentations, activities, speakers, entertainment, networking, etc. This all takes place in Hilliard at The Makoy.

Is this event really “free?”
Yes! When we say, “there’s no cost for DSPs,” we mean it – there’s NO cost. Registration includes parking, lunch, special guests, entertainment, activities, and prizes.

The registration form will only let me register 15 DSPs, including myself. What if my group is larger?
If you want to register more than 15 DSPs, wonderful! Visit the registration form as many times as needed, filling out the form with the next batch of DSPs, and avoiding repeating names (including your own).

When does registration close?
This event is SOLD OUT – to be added to the waiting list please email [email protected]

What if I didn’t order a t-shirt when I registered, and now I want one?
The deadline for t-shirt orders is August 20th. We will, however, have a limited number of shirts for purchase at the event, and you can contact us about tees at [email protected].

Is there an additional cost for the VIP Red Carpet Package?
Yes: the cost is $75. There is a limited quantity available, and this needs to be purchased during registration.