December 2023 DSPAC Update Report

Summary of Activities and Progress

The DSP Council held a virtual meeting in December and most members were able to attend.
GCDD Unlock-Rita Young met with the DSP Council and shared Unlock legislative advocacy priorities and discussed collaboration with the DSP Council.
A DSP Council member representing in the Unlock advocacy initiative began the initial training. Unlock’s legislative focus is on Wages and Waivers.
Debbie agreed to serve on the Unlock Advisory Committee to represent the council along with other GA advocacy organizations.
Met with Carol Britton Laws-UGA IHDD to discuss collaboration for workforce development. Exciting opportunities for the DSP Council to be included in the development of a DSP certification exam. Interested members are to assist with the development of scenarios for situational judgment.
Discussion with SPADD to discuss conference tracks that could be tailored toward DSPs.
Met with SUN to explore any collaboration for advancing DSP development and engagement.
Members are actively engaging and making contributions.

Website up and running-still a work in progress. https://www.starchoices.org/ga-dsp-council/
DBHDD confirmed funding for some activities as of July 2024.
Shared progress of the DSP Council with Susan Bolland Butts-Enterline Foundation for future funding.
Encouraging members to share with their organizational leaders and fellow DSPs about council activities.

We are still working to find an additional DSP working in supported employment.
The communication App has improved communication for those choosing to use it, and everyone is getting better at checking email.
Thank you for supporting the DSPs to be a part of the Advocacy Council!