OADSP

OADSP Skill Mentor Zoom Training
2025-02-27 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-11-12 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-10-08 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-09-24 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | OH
This 2 hour zoom training will prepare you to become an OADSP skill mentor.

If you are a new designee, or just needed a refresher, please click here to register for this session.

Dash To Nashville
2025-02-24 08:00 - 2025-02-26 20:00 | Embassy Suites | Nashville, 10 Century Blvd, Nashville, TN, 37214, United States
OADSP Invites you to DASH TO NASHVILLE….

Music City, USA

Travel with OADSP to Nashville, for 3 days and 2 nights of boot-scootin’ fun! This bus trip includes travel, hotel; $399 double occupancy & transport per person, $549 for single occupancy & transport per person). Breakfast, late-afternoon appetizers & drinks on Monday and Tuesday at the hotel. We depart at 8 a.m. on Monday, February 24, 2025, from Columbus, Ohio, and make a second pick-up stop around 10:00 a.m. near Cincinnati. We return to Columbus at approximately 8 p.m. (appx. 6 p.m. Cincinnati drop-off) on Wednesday, February 26th. Other than breakfast, meals are each traveler’s responsibility. There’s history, art, shopping, and of course, MUSIC to experience in Nashville, and we hope you can join us!

Seats are limited & Early-bird registration switches over at 5 p.m. EST on January 17, 2025 – and rates increase by $50 per person – so book your bus seat today!

Registration is closed

“The best thing about this trip was meeting all the DSPs, supervisors and OADSP staff from across Ohio. To talk openly about our work, our field, the positives, the struggles, to hang out together, be ourselves, make memories and have fun together. I got so much from this trip!”

~ Pam D Attendee 2023

Frequently Asked Questions?

Additional Info SessionsThere will be a virtual meet & greet for registered travelers held 2-3 weeks before the trip, where we’ll review the schedule and answer any specific questions travelers may have.

How is the cost for a double room calculated?The cost for a double room is $399 per person. Each person sharing the room pays $399, making the total cost of the room $798. This price includes the hotel stay and transportation on the bus.

Will a roommate be assigned if I register for a double room occupancy?No, OADSP is unable to assign a roommate for this bus trip. When registering for a double room you must provide your roommate name at registration.

When does the Early Bird Rate close?The Early Bird rate closes at 5:00 p.m. on January 17th, 2025. After this date, rates will increase by $50, so be sure to secure your spot early!

What time does the bus depart on February 24th?The bus departs at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, February 24, 2025, from Columbus, Ohio, with a second pickup stop near Cincinnati at approximately 10:00 a.m. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth departure!

What time will I return on February 26th?We’re scheduled to arrive back in Columbus around 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. For those getting off near Cincinnati, the drop-off time will be around 6:00 p.m.

Can I bring a friend or family member?This trip is designed exclusively for individuals who work in the field of disabilities and are 18 years or older. Unfortunately, it’s not open to friends or family members who are not in the field.

Can I bring the person/people I support?This trip is designed exclusively for individuals who work in the field of disabilities and are 18 years or older. It’s not open to people receiving services.

I am only 18. Are there any age restrictions?Yes, some bars/restaurants in Nashville require patrons to be 21 or older with a valid ID after certain hours. If you’re under 21, you may have limited access to certain venues with bars in the evenings.

Is the bus handicap accessible?We are traveling on a standard coach bus, which is not equipped with accessibility features.

Is there a bathroom on the bus?Yes, we’ll be traveling on a standard coach bus equipped with a restroom.

Will the bus make stops for restroom breaks and food?Yes, we’ll be making scheduled stops for passengers to purchase food and snacks and to use additional restroom facilities.

Can I bring my own beverages and snacks for the hotel and bus?Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages for both the bus and your hotel stay.

What meals are included in the cost?The cost includes the following meals:

Breakfast on Tuesday and Wednesday

Late-afternoon appetizers and drinks on Monday and Tuesday at the hotel

Are lunches and dinners included in the cost?Lunches and dinners are not included in the trip cost. You’re welcome to explore local dining options in Nashville for meals on your own or with the group.

What is the luggage allowance for this trip?Each passenger may bring:One personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag or coolerOne duffel bag or carry-on-sized suitcase

When does registration close?Registration will close in early February (exact date TBD), or when we reach our maximum capacity, whichever comes first. Secure your spot soon!

What are my transportation options while in Nashville?There are multiple options for transportation while exploring Nashville:

The coach bus will be available for free scheduled-but-optional trips around the city, including downtown and shopping destinations. The schedule will be reviewed during the meet & greet and paper copies will be available at the beginning of the trip.

Travelers can ride the free hotel shuttle within a 3-mile radius of the hotel.

Travelers can choose to use Uber/Lyft/Taxis while exploring the city.

What is your cancelation policy?

Participants must notify OADSP in writing by 1/24/2025 to receive a full refund, minus a $50 processing fee. This timing provides an opportunity to fill the vacated space. If cancellation is necessary on or after 1/24/2025, no refund will be given, but an organization may substitute a different participant. OADSP cannot give any refund for no-shows. Thank you for respecting the entirety of this cancellation policy.

For any questions not covered in the FAQ, please email us at inquiries@oadsp.org

2024 ABC BOOSTERS

Boosters play a central role in helping OADSP offset the costs of events like DASH TO Nashville.

Certified Instructor Training (CIT)
2025-01-29 09:00 - 17:00 | Ohio Association-County Boards, 73 E Wilson Bridge Rd, Worthington, Ohio, 43085, United States
Any individual designated or intending to teach OADSP curricula (DSPaths or FLS), must successfully complete OADSP’s Certified Instructor Training (CIT), a free one-day course included in Licensed Entity (LE) and DSP-U agreements with OADSP. This training will also prepare you to be an OADSP Skill Mentor.

(There is a 30 minute break for lunch. Please bring a packed lunch.)

If you are a new designee, or just needed a refresher, please click here to register for this session.

OADSP Board Meeting (Q4)
2024-12-11 10:00 - 15:00 | OH
OADSP is governed by a non-profit Board of Directors. Each Board member brings a unique perspective to the table, and all donate their time, talent, and experience to OADSP. Read more about each member here.

DSP Days
2024-12-05 15:00 - 21:00, 2024-11-07 15:00 - 21:00, 2024-10-03 15:00 - 21:00, 2024-09-05 15:00 - 21:00, 2024-08-01 15:00 - 21:00, 2024-07-04 15:00 - 21:00, 2024-06-06 15:00 - 21:00, 2024-05-02 15:00 - 21:00 | OH
Part of OADSP’s mission is to educate, elevate, and empower DSPs. Part of Scene75’s mission is to entertain them!

Registered DSPs can visit Scene75 on the first Thursday of every month for FREE FUN!

WHERE ARE DSP DAYS?

Head to your local Scene75 and enjoy rides, games, and attractions with family and friends from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.:

Dayton: 6196 Poe Avenue, Dayton, OH 45414

Cincinnati: 876 SR 28 Milford, OH 45150

Cleveland: 3688 Center Rd, Brunswick, OH 44212

Columbus: 5033 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Dublin, OH 43016

Chicagoland: 460 S Weber Rd, Romeoville, IL 60446

WHAT DO DSP DAYS INCLUDE?

One FREE $10 Game Play Card, which is good toward any of Scene75’s games and attractions

One FREE Spin Zone, a crazy-fun bumper car experience for anyone 48″/1.25m or taller

One FREE round (9 holes) of Blacklight Mini-Golf — will you dive Under The Sea, or venture into an Immortal Jungle?!?

Exclusive purchasing power! When you arrive, you can also buy the package that includes all of the above for just $14.99 for any of your friends or family! Cards purchased must be used that day.

HOW DO I BECOME A REGISTERED DSP?

Every month you plan to go, fill out the registration form here, at least 2 days before the event.

It’s that easy! When you and your friends and family arrive at Scene75, provide the same info to the folks at the Welcome Desk, and you’re in!

Leadership LAUNCHpad
2024-11-20 08:00 - 2024-11-22 16:00 | Embassy Suites | Columbus, 2700 Corporate Exchange Dr, Columbus, OH, 43231, United States
Leadership LAUNCHpad is a unique retreat, immersing each participant in a leadership-themed environment shared with like-minded people. Every retreat is its own universe, separate from “the outside world,” and participants are empowered to concentrate on personal development, exercise networking skills, and re-enter the day-to-day with a clearer sense of their leadership identities.

The LAUNCHpad participant package includes:

2 nights’ onsite accommodation

2 breakfasts, 3 buffet lunches, and snack breaks

Educational materials, tools, and assessments

Evening networking opportunities

Presentations from subject matter experts

Hands-on learning experiences

Post-participation follow-up and support

Registration is limited to 2 attendees per organization.

This event is now full.

Cancellation Policy

Participants must notify OADSP in writing by 10/30/2024 to receive a full refund, minus a $50 processing fee. This timing provides an opportunity to fill the vacated space. If cancellation is necessary on or after 10/30/2024, no refund will be given, but an organization may substitute a different participant. OADSP cannot give any refund for no-shows. Thank you for respecting the entirety of this cancellation policy.

Certified Instructor Training (CIT)
2024-11-04 09:00 - 17:00 | Columbus Developmental Center, 1601 W Broad St, Columbus, OH, 43222, United States
Any individual designated or intending to teach OADSP curricula (DSPaths or FLS), must successfully complete OADSP’s Certified Instructor Training (CIT), a free one-day course included in Licensed Entity (LE) and DSP-U agreements with OADSP. This training will also prepare you to be an OADSP Skill Mentor.

This training will be held in the CDC Administrative BuildingGo up the stairs when you enter the building, the reception desk will be to the right. You will need to sign in. The training will be in the Georgia Room (#501).

(There is a 30 minute break for lunch. Please bring a packed lunch.)

If you are a new designee, or just needed a refresher, please click here to register for this session.

SYNERGY 2024
2024-10-02 00:00 - 2024-10-04 23:59 | Kalahari Resort & Conference Center, 7000 Kalahari Dr, Sandusky, OH, 44870, United States
In collaboration with PAR-Ohio, People First of Ohio, and the Ohio Self Determination Association, OADSP is pleased to present this annual conference. Visit synergyohio.org for more information.

2024 ADVANCE Partnership Summit
2024-09-23 17:00 - 2024-09-25 18:00 | Embassy Suites | Dublin, 5100 Upper Metro Pl, Dublin, OH, 43017, United States
The ADVANCE Partnership Summit (APS) is a bi-annual happening organized by the ADVANCE Think Tank, a progressive group of leaders within Ohio’s I/DD field eager to take on its most challenging issues and concerns. The APS is sponsored by the industry’s “heavy-hitters,” including Ohio’s Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD), the Ohio Provider Resource Association (OPRA), the Ohio Health Care Association (OHCA), and the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities (OACB).

If you work for a provider, a County Board, or a state department of developmental disabilities, please contact us for APS registration and sponsorship information.

Certified Instructor Training (CIT)
2024-09-20 09:00 - 17:00 | Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities, E Wilson Bridge Rd, Worthington, OH, 43085, United States
Any individual designated or intending to teach OADSP curricula (DSPaths or FLS), must successfully complete OADSP’s Certified Instructor Training (CIT), a free one-day course included in Licensed Entity (LE) and DSP-U agreements with OADSP. This training will also prepare you to be an OADSP Skill Mentor.

If you are a new designee, or just needed a refresher, please click here to register for this session.

2024 DSP Recognition Event
2024-09-11 10:00 - 15:30 | DWELL Community Conference Center, 1390 Community Park Dr, Columbus, OH, 43229, United States
This year’s event is fully booked! If you missed out, make sure you’re on our contact list, so you receive announcements about the 2025 event.

Every year, OADSP hosts our Direct Support Professional Recognition Event (DSPRE), and this year marks the 15th such occasion. The theme for this year’s DSP Recognition Event is ROCK YOUR ROLE! To celebrate in proper fashion, we are planning our biggest event yet, and will be rocking out with not one, not two, but THREE of last year’s top American Idols in the midst of their Built-4-More tour!

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.

Help us find the OADSP 2024 DSP of the Year!

The deadline for 2024 nominations has passed, but you can click here for information about the award.

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 Columbus at DWELL Community Conference Center.

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 an afternoon concert with 3 American Idols.

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 21. 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 Meet & Greet Private Catered Buffet Luncheon?Yes: the cost is $75. However, anyone registering before August 16 is automatically entered into a random drawing, and winners receive backstage passes to the Luncheon. If registered after that date, contact us about purchasing the pass at inquiries@oadsp.org.

Thanks to our Summer and Fall Boosters for supporting the 2024 DSP Recognition Event!

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

OADSP Board Meeting (Q3)
2024-09-05 13:00 - 15:00 | OH

Annual Leadership Float
2024-08-06 09:00 - 14:00 | Mohican Adventures Canoe Livery and Fun Center, Ohio 3, Loudonville, OH, 44842, United States
Join us for OADSP’s first annual Leadership Float! Participants will meet at Mohican Adventures Livery in Loudonville, Ohio. Float with your team or mix it up and float with I/DD partners and providers from around the state. (Select your preference during registration.) If you are registering a team to float with, rafts require a minimum of 3 people and have a max capacity of 6 adults. Teams larger than 6 will be split into separate rafts. Arrival time is 9 a.m., with launches beginning at 9:30 a.m. Pack cooler or stop by one of the riverside food stands along the way (cash & card accepted).

Register here!

Leadership LAUNCHpad
2024-07-30 08:00 - 2024-08-01 16:00 | Embassy Suites | Columbus, 2700 Corporate Exchange Dr, Columbus, OH, 43231, United States
This particular cohort for LAUNCHpad is full. Please check the Upcoming Events calendar for November’s LAUNCHpad; links for registration and the scholarship application will be posted there.

We all know that a leader is not defined by title alone. Leadership is more than a position, and it’s needed at all levels of an organization – to mentor, to innovate, and to keep the organization on track and moving forward. Cultivating leadership strengthens an organization, and refines efficiency, effectiveness, and resilience.

OADSP developed Leadership LAUNCHpad (LLP) to help with those strengthening and refining processes. It’s a unique occasion, immersing each participant in a leadership-themed environment shared with like-minded people. Every LLP is its own universe, separate from “the outside world,” so participants are empowered to concentrate on personal development, exercise networking skills, and re-enter the day-to-day with a clearer sense of their leadership identities.

Cancellation Policy

Participants must notify OADSP in writing by 7/10/2024 to receive a full refund, minus a $50 processing fee. This timing provides an opportunity to fill the vacated space. If cancellation is necessary on or after 7/10/2024, no refund will be given, but an organization may substitute a different participant. OADSP cannot give any refund for no-shows. Thank you for respecting the entirety of this cancellation policy.

2024 Jamming for DSPs
2024-07-25 18:00 - 22:00 | Embassy Suites | Dublin, 5100 Upper Metro Pl, Dublin, OH, 43017, United States
Every year, OADSP throws our Direct Support Professional Recognition Event (DSPRE), and Jamming for DSPs is a prior occasion, so leadership from Ohio’s DODD, service and support providers, and County Boards of DD enjoy a glimpse of what the DSPRE has in store for attendees! 2024’s DSPRE – and, thus, this year’s Jamming for DSPs – is at the EMBASSY SUITES in Dublin and a gala evening is planned for guests, including free parking, hors d’oeuvres, drink tickets, and a private band concert and jam session with Session 5 and Mikenley Brown, a top American Idol contestant.

Purchase your Jamming for DSPs tickets here!

DSP & FLS Councils Retreat
2024-06-11 08:00 - 2024-06-13 16:00 | OH
OADSP’s DSP and Frontline Supervisor Councils are two separate groups made up of leading professionals that help keep OADSP’s Board of Directors and the OADSP team informed about the frontline experience. They act in supportive and representative roles for their fellow DSPs and Supervisors. The groups combine for an annual retreat at which they review the Councils’ achievements, collaborate on and develop new Council-led initiatives, and help plan for OADSP’s marquee programs, including the annual DSP Recognition Event and Summit. To be considered for a seat on either Council, fill out the official application here.

OADSP Board Meeting (Q2)
2024-06-06 13:00 - 15:00 | OH

Certified Instructor Training (CIT)
2024-05-21 09:00 - 17:00 | Columbus Developmental Center, 1601 W Broad St, Columbus, OH, 43222, United States

Ambassador Forum
2024-05-15 14:00 - 15:00 | OH
These virtual Forums bring together OADSP Ambassadors – appointed to their positions by their respective agency directors – to discuss “hot topics,” share resources, and otherwise increase their outreach, opportunities, and impact, for themselves, their colleagues, and the frontline, statewide. Click here for more information about the Ambassador program.

2024 Summit
2024-05-08 10:00 - 15:30 | DWELL Community Conference Center, 1390 Community Park Dr, Columbus, OH, 43229, United States
The 2024 Summit is SOLD OUT – thank you to all who registered!

Every year, OADSP hosts a professional conference for DSPs and Frontline Supervisors – our annual Summit – and this year marks the 10th such event. Additionally, this year, we are pleased to have major support from the Ohio DODD: funding from the Department is providing the first 50 registrations for FREE and the next 125 at HALF-PRICE. The regular registration rate is $50. All registrations include lunch. There are no group discounts.

In addition to our keynote plenary presentations, the Summit offers breakout sessions that address –

how artificial intelligence can benefit the frontline professional

UI/MUI reporting process and updates

investing and budgeting

community belonging

using improv to build skills

– and each of these sessions is offered twice. All sessions are submitted to DODD for CPDUs.

When registering for the Summit, you have the option to purchase the 2024 Summit t-shirt. It’s available in sizes Small to 5X, and priced at $20 each. The deadline to order t-shirts is April 17. T-shirts ordered by that deadline will be available for pick-up at the Summit.

Thank You, 2023-2024 ABC Boosters, for supporting the 2024 Summit!

Major support comes from
