Unique Program Teaches People With Disabilities To Be Care Providers
September 9, 2019
By: Blythe Bernhard
Source: Disability Scoop
Carmela Mack wants to help people with disabilities because she knows what it feels like to be excluded. The 18-year-old with a hearing impairment is a student of the Direct Service Professional (DSP) Academy in Washington, D.C., where she plans to earn a certification to work in the field as an aide to people with disabilities.
“There are not enough people trying to advocate for people with disabilities,” Mack said. “I’m going to love this job because I’ve been through this and I know what it feels like to not be supported. I can connect with them because that was me.”
The academy is run by RCM of Washington, a company that provides support to people with disabilities. Its goal is twofold — provide career opportunities to people with disabilities while also addressing the shortage of home health aides and DSPs.