
2025 DSP Recognition Event
September 12 , 10:00 am – 4:00 pm EDT

Every year, OADSP hosts our Direct Support Professional Recognition Event (DSPRE), and this year marks the 16th such occasion. The theme for this year’s DSP Recognition Event is ROLLING OUT THE RED CARPET! We’re currently in discussions with several well-known TV personalities and look forward to unveiling a star-studded lineup that will take this celebration to the next level.
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.
OADSP 2025 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, and one exceptional winner will be selected in each category.
Nominations open July 14th through 5:00 PM EST on August 15, 2025.
Winners will be notified in advance via email.
Help us celebrate the dedication, skill, and heart of Ohio’s incredible DSP workforce—submit your nomination today!
(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 4:00pm, 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?
September 10th, or when we’ve reached our capacity limit, whichever comes first.
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 20. We will, however, have a limited number of shirts for purchase at the event, and you can contact us about tees at inquiries@oadsp.org.
Is there an additional cost for the VIP Red Carpet Pass?
Yes: the cost is $75. There is a limited quantity available, and this needs to be purchased during registration.
Thanks to our ABC Boosters for supporting the 2025 DSP Recognition Event!

Special Thanks to the Ohio DODD for its continuing and robust support of OADSP and this Event!
