#United States #Washington, DC #National Children's Center #Direct Support Professionals #NADSP

National Children's Center Joins NADSP for Direct Support Professionals' Empowerment

The National Children's Center® (NCC) has officially become a member organization of the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). This significant partnership reflects a steadfast commitment not only to the direct support professionals (DSPs) at NCC but also to the individuals receiving their services and their families.

The ceremony announcing this membership took place on August 28, 2025, underscoring NCC's dedication to enriching the community in Washington, DC.

A Commitment to Support Professionals

Terrance King, NCC's President and CEO, expressed the organization's excitement regarding this new membership. He highlighted how this affiliation would create valuable opportunities and enhance their mission. “Membership with NADSP reinforces our commitment to empowering our employees and amplifying our impact within the I/DD community,” stated King.

Frank Kirkland, NCC’s Executive Director, emphasized the groundbreaking achievement of being the first organization in the District of Columbia to join NADSP. Kirkland noted, “This milestone symbolizes a significant step forward in supporting professionals within the I/DD sector.”

By joining the NADSP, NCC aligns itself with the alliance's goals, which aim to uplift the status of direct support professionals through improved standards of practice, advocacy for systemic reforms, and the enhancement of knowledge and skills relevant to the profession.

Resources and Opportunities for Growth

Membership in NADSP provides numerous resources and benefits. Employees at NCC will gain access to an extensive array of webinars addressing various topics that can improve programmatic supports and services they provide. Furthermore, staff members can participate in the NADSP E-Badge Academy and receive discounted registrations for NADSP Training and Conferences.

Joseph Macbeth, President and CEO of NADSP, commented on the importance of this membership by stating, “NCC is sending a powerful message that they value their support staff and recognize their key role in the community.” This collaborative relationship signifies a substantial investment in the growth and advancement of these professionals.

Celebrating Inclusivity and Community Enrichment

Founded in 1958, NCC enriches the lives of individuals of all ages with diverse backgrounds and abilities through a variety of inclusive programs. These include their Early Learning and Early Intervention Center (ELC) and Adult Community Support Services.

One of the notable initiatives by NCC includes the Baby Bloomers Urban Garden, which not only enhances individuals' lives but also improves access to healthy foods and educates families about nutrition. This initiative focuses on residents in Wards 7 and 8 of Washington, DC, representing NCC's dedication to community health and wellness.

Through the alignment with NADSP and ongoing initiatives, NCC exemplifies a model of how organizations can effectively support and empower professionals dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive and participate fully in their communities.

As NCC continues to pave the way in the field, it sets a commendable example of innovation and commitment to improvement in the lives of the people they serve, meanwhile promoting a culture of respect and support for the invaluable direct support professionals who make this work possible.