DSPs Belong Where They Can Grow, Make A Difference: At Mosaic
Sometimes, a job can be more than just a paycheck. For many Direct Support Professionals working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and other diverse needs, the opportunity to impact someone’s life is what keeps them on the job.
“Many people enter direct support care because they want work that matters,” said Heather Schekirke, Associate Vice President, Talent Strategy at Mosaic. “DSPs have the opportunity to directly impact someone’s independence, confidence, health, and quality of life every single day.”
Whether they’re helping someone achieve a personal goal, learn a new skill, participate in the community, or simply feel supported and valued, Schekirke said, DSPs make a real difference.
DSPs are the heart of connection at Mosaic because their work builds relationships, communities and meaningful lives. But many wonder whether it can become a career or, if they choose, a pathway to advancement in the industry.
A 2025 survey from Relias, a global software company that specializes in education and training for healthcare and human service providers, and ANCOR, a national association for community-based disability service providers, found that a strong desire for professional growth, learning opportunities and well-being initiatives is shaping DSPs’ attitudes toward their work and their likelihood of staying with their organization.
While 31% of the Relias/ANCOR survey respondents said their organization doesn’t offer career advancement programs, Schekirke said there are growth opportunities at Mosaic.
“We recognize that people are looking for more than a paycheck; employees want purpose, connection, flexibility, and opportunities to grow professionally while making a meaningful difference,” she said. “Direct support offers a unique combination of all of those things.”
Schekirke said Mosaic’s DSPs are part of a community of people who are called to love and serve.
“There’s a great sense of belonging at Mosaic,” she said. “We offer a place to belong, to advance your career and to make a difference.”
Schekirke said DSPs receive training and mentorship, and they are encouraged to consider their growth within the organization as they go.
Possible career pathways for DSPs include:
- Lead DSP Roles
- Program/Service Coordinator
- Program Manager
- Area Director
- Direct Support Supervisor
There are also specialized support roles, such as:
- Behavioral supports
- Quality & compliance
- Training/facilitation
- Nursing coordination
- Scheduling
- Community engagement
Schekirke said many people who started as DSPs discovered strengths and passions they didn’t realize they had and have gone on to roles in training, operations, or administrative positions. She noted that Mosaic President and CEO Linda Timmons began her 40-plus-year career at Mosaic in a direct support role.
“The experience gained as a DSP creates a strong foundation in communication, leadership, problem-solving, advocacy, and relationship-building skills that transfer across many areas of the organization,” she said. “At Mosaic, DSPs are not only essential to the mission; they are leaders, advocates, and the future of the organization.”
Answer the call to love and serve alongside a team that values your presence as much as your performance. Learn more about Direct Support Professional career opportunities at MosaicCareers.org.