Hetrick Achieves DSP Certification at Center for Human Services

Morgan Hetrick now has a new title at the Center For Human Services’ Roger Garlich Activity Center, 4415 West Main.

Morgan is now a Certified Direct Support Professional.

It is a promotion that Morgan has been working on for quite some time.

“I am so excited,” Morgan said after proudly posing for several photos with her certificate from the Missouri Talent Pathways Certified Direct Support Professional Apprenticeship Program immediately following a ceremony held Tuesday afternoon.

Morgan said she has been working towards her CDSP certificate from the US Department of Labor for almost a year and a half, and becomes CHS’ first “certified” DSP.

CHS CEO David Kramer said “I can’t think of a tougher job to do than what we expect from our direct support professionals … I want you to do so good at your job, that they don’t need you anymore … it’s absolutely a brutal job, but I also understand that people, and I did back when I did it, absolutely love this job.”

Being a DSP is “basically asking to assist someone with every single aspect of their life, and then ask them to train the person to do it for themselves,” Kramer said.

He added that MoTAP (Missouri Pathways Talent Program), “we see our DSP’s getting the respect they deserve.”

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Missouri Talent Pathways (MoTAP) is a state-level program in Missouri that aims to address the shortage of direct support professionals (DSPs) for individuals with disabilities, according to the Missouri Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities (DMH). It uses registered apprenticeships to train and develop DSPs.

The year-long apprenticeship program offers on-the-job training, and educational and compliance program, mentorship, community involvement, pay incentives, and nationally recognized certification.

“I think that is absolutely critical for the folks in our field,” Kramer stated.

According to Jessica Nicholson, CHS Mentor, Morgan began working at CHS as a DSP in the community living department, supporting individuals receiving services. She later transferred to the Roger Garlich Activity Center, supporting individuals in the day program.

“From the beginning, Morgan has shown an unwavering commitment to excellence, embracing every challenge with determination and grace,” she noted. “Through countless hours of training, hands-on experience and continuous learning, Morgan has not only honed her skills, but also exemplifies the true spirit of our apprenticeship program,” Nicholson said.

“Today we honor Morgan for her achievements, her resilience and her unwavering pursuit of continuing education. This celebration marks the culmination of a journey filled with both triumph and trials, and it is a moment of immense pride for all of us. As celebrate this special occasion, let us also acknowledge the support and guidance by mentor Holly and family. Their encouragement and belief in Morgan have been invaluable in reaching this milestone,” Nicholson said.

Nicholson then administered the oath of the CDSP to Hetrick.

Morgan was then congratulated by CEO Kramer, Chief Program Officer Loletta Combs and Chief Human Resources Officer Roxy Antonio.

Refreshments followed the official ceremony.

As a nonprofit organization, CHS relies on funding from federal and state allocations, as well as donations and grants.