Submitted By: Nicole Manos, Training and Development Specialist, Person Centered Care Services
Our career ladder program at Person Centered Care Services (PCCS) helps us carry out the NADSP Code of Ethics and NADSP Competency Areas in a diligent way to be able to provide the people we support with the best quality of care. It offers direct support professionals (DSPs) an opportunity to be part of a cohort who together complete a total of 5 levels over the span of 5 years. Each cohort is given a training plan which includes NADSP Certifications that coincides with the level they are currently in. As the program advances in levels, the DSPs are learning skills to successfully network and engage with communities, develop and oversee staff action plans, actively participate in committees, and more. This program helps decrease retention rates, offer competitive wage salaries, and provide additional employee incentives.
The Impact Of The Career Ladder Program
As the program continues to grow, it adds a positive impact on the organization. This program offers DSPs a sense of value, while also providing opportunities to advance their career. The organization has seen a decrease in burnout across all staff – including administrative staff – due to DSPs acquiring new skills that alleviate some administrative responsibilities.
“I joined the Career Ladder program in 2021. I am now a Level 3 DSP. I have been given the opportunity to take trainings and follow the training plan that PCCS has provided for me, to fully grow in my role as a DSP.”
– Lenice, DSP, Person-Centered Care Services
We have received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback from DSPs. More specifically, DSPs have shared that they are able to utilize the NADSP Code of Ethics and connect them to their everyday decision-making. In addition, while writing their testimonials through the NADSP E-Badge Academy, they have been able to identify what NADSP Competency Areas align with the work they are doing. They are seeing how their experiences have shaped them into the DSP they are today.
They also enjoy other incentives such as learning opportunities to help them continue to grow in their role here at PCCS. With mentoring this cohort, it is a privilege to see the professional relationships being built, the outpouring of “aha” moments, and their awareness of how great they truly are and the difference they make each and every single day.
Steps To Implement A Similar Program
Other organizations can replicate our efforts by implementing their own DSP career ladder program. To do this, we recommend first utilizing current research and pitching the idea to executive team members. It is important to gain the “buy in” from all decision-makers and leaders within the organization. It is also important to include DSPs in the development of the program. We recommend surveying DSPs to find out what is truly important to them in addition to financial incentives. With the support of leaders and DSPs, organizations can develop a meaningful program that will enhance overall efficiency and work satisfaction.
“The career ladders program has helped me identify my areas of strengths as well as weaknesses. There is just so much to learn in this field of work. I am grateful for the program, for pushing me forward in the right direction.”
Barbra, DSP, Person-Centered Care Services
Organizations can implement a similar career ladder program by following these action steps:
- Gather all relevant research around the benefits of investing in DSPs through a career ladder program.
- Utilizing the research, gain the “buy in” from key decision-makers and leaders within the organization.
- Assess the “wants and needs” from the DSPs by developing a survey to collect their feedback and opinions.
- Form a formal committee that includes diverse perspectives to lead the development of the program.
- Develop a strategic plan that is realistic and measurable, which will be the guide in the development of the program.
- Develop a budget and understand the financial resources that are needed in order to begin the program. This may include grant opportunities.
- Develop the curriculum and guidelines for the program.
- Offer the opportunity for DSPs to enroll in the program.
- Begin with the first co-hort. During this time, it will be a learning experience for all where the organization will be able to assess what works and what doesn’t work.
Challenges You May Encounter
One challenge that can occur includes technology skills of staff. Organizations may need to host trainings for the staff, about how to navigate the websites and training curriculum programs. Another difficulty involves language barriers. You can work with a third party to help articulate and interpret E-Badges for the person to complete. Time management is another big challenge. We are often left short staffed, and management needs to step up and in and work a shift to give the staff time to complete their tasks when necessary. I suggest being creative and open-minded when confronting these challenges.
“In the career ladder program, I have achieved my NADSP Certification Level 3. I now sit on committees, assist with staff action plans, advocate with the person I support, and am able to continue and advance my career.”
– Victoria, DSP, Person-Centered Care Services
About Person Centered Care Services
Person Centered Care Services (PCCS) is a not-for-profit organization creating social change within communities by supporting people with disabilities on their search for identity and acceptance.
Founded in 2001, Person Centered Care Services (PCCS) provides person-centered supports and services to people with disabilities and their families in the New York City area. From supports in education, employment, and housing to training, counseling, and advocacy initiatives, we have been at the forefront of continuing to expand opportunities for people with disabilities. Throughout the years, our vision has remained the same: equitable opportunities for people with developmental disabilities, and a network of disability allies spread across communities near and far.
You can learn more about Person Centered Care Services by visiting the organization’s website: https://www.pccsny.org/
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Since 1969, CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership has been a leader in working with human service organizations and systems to continuously define, measure, and improve quality of life and quality of services for youth, adults, and older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and psychiatric disabilities. CQL offers accreditation, training, certification, research, and consultation services to agencies that share our vision of dignity, opportunity, and community for all people.
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