MOUNTVILLE, Pa. (September 12, 2011) – Governor Tom Corbett has declared the week of September 11-17, 2011 as Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week. This recognition is in appreciation for the work done by community provider staff who care for individuals with disabilities. Community Services Group (CSG), one of the largest human service providers across the state, has asked representatives and senators in19 counties throughout Pennsylvania to join CSG in recognizing these dedicated professionals by visiting one of their local programs whose mission is to help individuals with disabilities overcome challenges and reach their full potential. CSG also asked state representatives and senators to adequately fund the programs that employ Direct Service Professionals so they may be paid a fair rate of pay and vital services can continue.

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the people who work as direct care workers, in-home support workers, personal assistants and attendants to ensure that people with disabilities are able to live more independently and in community settings. However, low wages coupled with demanding work often leads to high turnover of DSPs.

CSG employs more than 1000 Direct Support Professionals across the state who serve as an integral part of the human services community. DSPs provide a broad range of support to individuals with mental health and intellectual and developmental disabilities on a daily basis. CSG has extended more than 60 invitations to state legislators to visit their local programs this week and show their recognition and appreciation.

Since 1972, Community Services Group (www.csgonline.org) has been dedicated to providing quality, community-based mental health and intellectual and development disability services throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania. With more than 1,800 employees, CSG has developed a spectrum of specialized programs to meet the needs of the individuals it serves. CSG is the preferred choice for individuals and referral sources because of CSG's network of comprehensive mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), child and youth, autism, and eldercare services. CSG is committed to empowering individuals and promoting independence and wellness.