(Sample County Recognition Request Letter: DSP Week 2013)
Date
Recipient’s name with title (Commissioner/Mayor)
Address line 1
Address line 2
Dear Recipient;
On behalf of (Name of Agency), the Rehabilitation and Community Providers Association (RCPA) and Pennsylvanians with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities who we service, I am writing to request a proclamation from your office designating the week of September 8 as Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. We also ask you to present the resolution/proclamation in a public signing ceremony.
(Name of Agency) is a community provider serving individuals living in the (region/area). The services we provide include (list them). Our agency is also a member RCPA, a statewide association which advances member commitment to improving the quality of live and community well-being for individuals who are at risk of or face the challenges of intellectual and/or development disabilities, mental illnesses, substance use disorders, and additions.
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are disabilities and healthcare professionals who provide “hands on” daily supports, training, and habilitation services to their clients. This workforce is responsible for the health, safety, and emotional well-being of the individuals they support, helping them to live more meaningful and productive lives within the community by promoting inclusion and independence.
The need for the quality services provided by the direct support workforce continues to grow at an alarming rate; however, low wages and high turnover among DSPs is contributing to a national workforce shortage and health care crisis. (Name of Agency) and RCPA seek to raise awareness of the direct support workforce and advocate for changes that will increase the standard of living for DSPs across the country.
Enclosed with this letter is proposed text of a proclamation/resolution designating the week of September 8 as National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Sincerely,
Signature
Name of Agency Leader
Position of Agency Leader