IDD

During Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, September 13–19, VOA Southeast celebrates the people whose work reaches far beyond the services they provide. Every day, DSPs help people engage with the world around them, pursue their interests, build relationships and take their place in the communities they call home. A Life Is Bigger Than a Program Support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has changed considerably over the generations. For much of American history, people with disabilities were separated from community life. Often, they lived in large institutions with little control over where they went, what they did or how…

There is something special about coming home. For several individuals served through VOA Southeast’s Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) programs, that feeling became a reality as they recently returned to a completely renovated group home designed to provide comfort, independence, and a vibrant place to thrive.

On Friday, VOA Southeast proudly celebrated the graduation of 13 students from Project SEARCH, a life-changing transition-to-work program for young adults with disabilities.

There was plenty of laughter, teamwork, and muddy hands at VOA Southeast’s Community Enrichment Center during this year’s United Way Day of Caring — and the impact reached far beyond the garden beds.

As a Direct Support Professional with VOA Southeast, Crystal Holifield recently received recognition on a national stage during ANCOR Connect ’26, held in April of this year. Crystal’s recognition reflects the meaningful impact of the care, support, and person-centered approach she brings to her work every day.

Jeffery is a valued employee at the Riverview Plaza Hotel, where his reliability and strong work ethic help keep operations running smoothly each day. Like many individuals with disabilities, finding the right fit in the workplace wasn’t always easy.

Governor Kay Ivey signed a proclamation at the Alabama State Capitol recognizing Direct Support Professional Recognition Week and honoring the dedicated DSPs who support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the state.

During Direct Support Professional Recognition Week in September 2025, we took time to recognize the essential role our DSPs play in empowering individuals to live fuller, more independent lives. Their patience, advocacy, and care are at the heart of everything we do.

We at Volunteers of America Southeast are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Through our person-centered approach, we empower individuals to live independently, with dignity and fulfillment, while fostering inclusivity and growth within their communities.

Discover how William, a talented artist with autism and an intellectual disability, found independence and inclusion through VOA Southeast’s programs. From expressing himself through art to thriving in his first community employment job, William’s story is a testament to the power of personalized support and opportunities. Read his inspiring story here.