Loveland Center Becomes The First Florida Agency to Provide NADSP Certification Classes for Direct Support Professionals

Loveland Center Breaks New Ground as the First Florida Agency to Provide NADSP Certification Classes for Direct Support Professionals

South West Florida, January 26th, 2024 – The Loveland Center, a leading non-profit organization in southwest Florida dedicated to supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, proudly announces its groundbreaking initiative to offer certification classes through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). As the first agency in Florida to provide this certification, the Loveland Center demonstrates its commitment to enhancing the quality of care for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).

The NADSP certification program is a significant milestone in the organization’s ongoing efforts to elevate the skills and expertise of its staff. The program comprises three levels for direct support staff and two levels for front-line supervisors. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals at every level of the organization receive specialized training tailored to their roles, fostering a culture of excellence and person-centered care.

The certification classes involve a robust 100 hours of online learning, coupled with the requirement for essays that showcase how the staff member incorporates their newfound knowledge into their work with the individuals they support. This unique blend of theoretical understanding and practical application is designed to enrich the learning experience, ensuring that the certification holds genuine value in real-world scenarios.

This week marks a momentous occasion for the Loveland Center, as staff member Amy Vantries achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first person in the state of Florida to receive a DSP level 1 Certification. Amy’s dedication to professional development and commitment to incorporating her learnings into her daily interactions demonstrate the positive impact this certification can have on the quality of care provided by the Loveland Center.

“This achievement by Amy Vantries exemplifies the spirit of excellence and continuous improvement that we encourage at the Loveland Center,” said Becca Eldredge, Chief Programs Officer at The Loveland Center. “We are immensely proud of Amy and the dedication she has shown to enhancing her skills for the benefit of the individuals we serve. Her accomplishment sets a shining example for others within our organization and the broader community.”

The Loveland Center remains dedicated to supporting its staff on their professional journeys and invites others to join in this transformative opportunity. As the organization continues to pioneer innovative approaches in the field, it remains steadfast in creating a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.