A Day in the Life of a DSP at Easterseals Northeast Indiana
Jorge Ruiz has worn many hats in his 43 years—educator, photographer, restaurant manager, and business owner. But one role keeps calling him back: Direct Support Professional (DSP).
Currently, Jorge works around 32 hours a week at a Medicaid waiver home in Fremont, operated by Easterseals Northeast Indiana Angola. It’s clear within minutes of his shift starting that being a DSP requires heart, energy, and adaptability—and Jorge has it all in abundance.
From RISE to Easterseals: Angola’s Rebranding Reflects Growth
Jorge’s story is closely tied to the organization’s growth. He previously worked at RISE, which has now been fully integrated and rebranded as the Angola location of Easterseals Northeast Indiana. The merger and name change have brought consistency, visibility, and a stronger identity to services in Angola and surrounding communities.
The Angola location continues to offer exceptional support, thanks to professionals like Jorge who embody the values and mission of Easterseals Northeast Indiana.
Passion for People: Why DSPs Like Jorge Matter
On a recent Monday afternoon, Jorge guided Ralph through preparing dinner—fish sticks, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and three kinds of fruit—while also making drinks for the other two men in the home. He supported Excell, who uses a wheelchair, through core exercises, helped maintain charts, and still found time for laughter and connection.
“This is why I came back,” Jorge said, motioning around the bustling kitchen. “I love what I do, and I love my guys.”
His educational background in special education and years of supervisory experience only strengthen the quality of care he provides. Yet for Jorge, it’s the one-on-one connections that make being a DSP so meaningful.
Building Trust Through Care
Jorge doesn’t just support the men in the home—he knows them. He understands their preferences, routines, communication styles, and favorite music. Two of the men have limited verbal communication, but Jorge skillfully reads their cues: a look, a gesture, a shift in tone.
“Are you telling me it’s time for dinner?” he gently asks Excell, who calls out while on the mat.
As he works, Ralph, who is more independent, steps in to help. “He’s a nurturer,” Jorge says. Together, they transfer Excell back into his wheelchair, displaying a powerful moment of teamwork, compassion, and mutual respect.
Coming Home to Easterseals Northeast Indiana
Jorge returned to Easterseals Northeast Indiana in July 2020, around the same time the organization merged and rebranded its Angola location. He values the organization’s training, team culture, and the recent DSP wage increases—but more importantly, he believes in the mission.
“I feel like we treat our clients better than a lot of places,” he said. “You can tell there’s a lot more training that goes on here.”
The Backbone of Support: Celebrating DSPs
DSPs like Jorge are the backbone of Easterseals Northeast Indiana’s mission—to empower people with disabilities to live more independent and fulfilling lives. Their work is often unseen, but deeply impactful. They are caregivers, advocates, and champions of inclusion.
Whether in Fremont, Angola, or any of our Northeast Indiana locations, DSPs are the driving force behind everything we do.
Interested in Becoming a DSP?
Join the team at Easterseals Northeast Indiana and make a real difference. Learn more about DSP career opportunities, training, and benefits by visiting eastersealsnei.org/join-our-team/.