OADSP Annual Leadership Float
2025-08-06 09:00 - 15:00 (America/Detroit) | Mohican Adventures Canoe Livery and Fun Center, Ohio 3, Loudonville, OH, 44842, United States
Join us for OADSP’s second 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!

OADSP Skill Mentor Zoom Training
2025-08-12 09:00 - 11:00
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.

2025 DSP Recognition Event
2025-09-12 10:00 - 15:30 | The Makoy Event Venue, 5462 Center St, Hilliard, Ohio, 43026, United States
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 inquiries@oadsp.org

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.)

About the Thomas Awards

The bi-annual Thomas Awards are named in honor of Tony Thomas, founding Board Member of OADSP and Executive Director of Welcome House. Tony played a pivotal role in developing Ohio’s first statewide credentialing and certification program for Direct Support Professionals—DSPATHS (Direct Support Professional Advancement Through Training in Human Services). You can learn more about the OADSP Credentialing Program – DSPATHS here!

This groundbreaking program has earned national recognition, including the prestigious Moving Mountains Award from the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), for its excellence in elevating the DSP workforce.

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 inquiries@oadsp.org

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 inquiries@oadsp.org.

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.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions? If you have any dietary requirements, please contact us at inquiries@oadsp.org

Is there a dress code? Hollywood glam encouraged, not required! Whether you sparkle in sequins or rock your everyday best, you’re a star in our eyes. Dress up for the fun—or just come as you are and enjoy the show!

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!

Fall Leadership LAUNCHpad
2025-11-12 08:30 - 2025-11-14 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.

Register here!

Cancellation Policy

Participants must notify OADSP in writing by 10/22/2025 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 10/22/2025, 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.

FLS Experience Meeting
2025-12-01 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-12-01 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-02 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-12-02 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-10 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-12-10 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-17 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-12-17 13:00 - 15:00
Discover the Frontline Supervisor Experience (FLSX)!

Join fellow Frontline Supervisors for an empowering experience where your voice matters! Share your insights and feedback directly with the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) and system partners to help shape the future of recruitment, retention, job satisfaction, and career growth in the field.

Don’t miss out!

Click here to register for in-person regional meetings.Meeting locations include Hamilton, Ohio (12/1/2025); Toledo, Ohio (12/2/2025); Columbus, Ohio (12/10/2025); and Cleveland, Ohio (12/17/2025). Choose from morning or afternoon session times!

This series of 8 in person regional meetings is sponsored by Ohio DODD and facilitated by OADSP.

You are invited - New Year's Eve Celebration!
2025-12-31 18:30 - 2026-01-01 00:00 | Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus Dublin, 5100 Upper Metro Place, Dublin, Ohio, 43017, United States
OADSP is throwing a NEW YEAR’S EVE party, and you are invited!

Get ready for an unforgettable night of celebration!

Enjoy live entertainment from Session 5, Zayne Harshaw, and other special guests before hitting the dance floor for an evening filled with music, raffles, and midnight festivities. Don’t miss our raffle highlights, featuring rare bourbons, exciting experiences, and themed baskets that bring a little something for everyone.

As the clock strikes twelve, raise your glass for a midnight toast and an exclusive countdown to the Lighthouse Cove rebrand, a moment of transformation and celebration you won’t want to miss!

NYE glam encouraged, not required!Bring the sparkle, the sequins, or rock your favorite classic cocktail look!Not feeling fancy? No worries come as you are! The only rule is to have fun and shine into the new year with us!

Tickets – Choose from 2 options

Dinner + Celebration Ticket (6:30 p.m. – 12:15 a.m.) cost $75Celebration Ticket Only (8:00 p.m. – 12:15 a.m.) cost $25.26

PURCHASE YOUR NYE TICKET HERE!

Hotel Reservations

Reserve your hotel room here: HOTEL RESERVATION LINKReservations Number: 800.220.9219HOTEL RESERVATION GROUP BLOCK is SOLD OUT. Contact the hotel directly to receive their best rate!

Please Note: OADSP is not responsible for booking or canceling hotel reservations.

2026 BTWB - KALAHARI ESCAPE!
2026-02-22 12:00 - 2026-02-24 20:00 | Kalahari Resort & Conference Center, 7000 Kalahari Dr, Sandusky, OH, 44870, United States
Entering its 5th year, OADSP’s Beat the Winter Blues series has featured some entertaining, informative, and show-stopping events and 2026 is no exception. The KALAHARI ESCAPADE is a 3-day, 2-night occasion that includes discounted rooms at the water park resort, exclusive gatherings, and a chance to enjoy some recreation and relaxation.

Cost: $349

Includes:

2 bed suite for up to 4 guests – 3 day, 2 night stay

Includes 4 waterpark passes

Reception for frontline professionals only at 8pm on 2/22/26

If you have questions about this event, please contact OADSP (866-862-2322 or inquiries@oadsp.org), not Kalahari Resorts; their daily staff is not involved in this type of event.

What To Know Before You Register – FAQ

What is the deadline to register for this event?

The deadline is Thursday, January 22nd. We might have limited availability after that date; please reach out to inquiries@oadsp.org to check.

What is included?

The price covers one standard room (accommodating up to 4 people) and waterpark admission (wristbands for a party of up to 4). If you’re a DSP or Frontline Supervisor, that price also includes a reception exclusively for you, taking place Sunday evening at the Baobab reception area, within Kalahari.

What is NOT included?

Meals and entertainment (outside of waterpark admission) are on your own. There are restaurants and quick-service options located inside Kalahari, as well as several fast food and other restaurants nearby. Additionally, other local attractions include bowling, shopping, arcades/game rooms, the Merry-Go-Round Museum, the Maritime Museum, and a host of other things to do and explore.

How do we pay for things at Kalahari?

Kalahari is fully cashless, but all major credit cards – Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, as well as Google and Apple Pay on mobile devices – are accepted. Kalahari does NOT accept Venmo or other cash app payments. The resort has a conversion kiosk where you can exchange cash for a pre-paid Mastercard, for a fee. Kalahari is requiring all hotel group guests to authorize a $100 hold to accommodate overnight folio charges (mobile payments not accepted). This is mandatory for all hotel overnight guests. You will be required to have this authorization placed on your account when you check in, but you will only be charged if you use those funds.

Who can come to the Sunday evening reception?

This event is exclusively for the DSPs and Frontline Supervisors registered for the Kalahari Escapade. This means that children, family members, persons supported, and others that do not work in the field of I/DD are not on the guest list.

What’s included with the Sunday evening reception?

We’ll have music, dancing, light appetizers, prizes, and all the fun and fellowship you can ask for at the end of February!

How many rooms can I book?

Unlimited!

What is a room like?

Each standard room includes 2 queen-size beds and a pull-out sofa, and comes with up to 4 wrist bands for occupants. Additional day passes may be purchased. Check www.kalahariresorts.com/ohio for specific days/pricing/availability.

What about accessible rooms?

Kalahari’s accessible rooms accommodate up to 4 guests, with 2 queen-size beds. These rooms are equipped with either a tub with bars, or a roll-in shower. If anyone in your party requires an accessible room, please email inquiries@oadsp.org as soon as possible, outlining the preference/need.

When can I get there on 2/22, and when do I have to leave on 2/24?

You can arrive at Kalahari as early as 12 noon on 2/22; official check-in is 4 p.m. Whenever you arrive, let Kalahari staff at the main desk know you’ve arrived, and even if your room(s) isn’t ready, you can still access the waterpark and the resort’s other amenities and attractions. On Tuesday, check-out is no later than 11 a.m., but you can access the waterpark until as late as 8 p.m.

If I can’t come on the 22nd, can I come on the 23rd?

No. The Kalahari Escapade is a package deal, beginning on 2/22 and ending on 2/24.

Is travel to and from Kalahari from my work or home included with the price?

No. Travel and associated expenses are up to you, your travel companions, and/or your employer (depending on who’s traveling).

Do we have to remain on the grounds of Kalahari?

Not at all. As mentioned above, there is shopping, restaurants, and other activities in the area. Look over a map before the event, so you know what’s available.

How much is parking at Kalahari?

It’s free.

Can I bring the individuals I support, or my family and friends?

You can bring whomever you like.

Are there any other goodies included?

Maybe! (wink-wink, nudge-nudge)
