2023 DSP Recognition Event

As of Monday morning, August 28, we are still at capacity for this event. We are working to see if we can increase our limit, so please keep checking this event listing. This notice will disappear, and the registration link below will re-activate, if we are able to add more seats. Thank you!

Every year, OADSP hosts our Direct Support Professional Recognition Event (DSPRE), and this year marks the 14th such occasion, but the very first held at the Africa Event Center at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium! FREE for DSPs, the day is filled with special guests, entertainers, and speakers, socializing, games and prizes, and a lunchtime meal, as well as site-specific activities. Hundreds of I/DD professionals gather for the fun and fellowship.

Need a printable version of the event details? Click here!

Before You Register, Please Read –

Can I bring the individuals I support, or my family?
No. The Direct Support Professional Recognition Event is exactly that: it’s an event exclusively for Direct Support Professionals (and independent providers working as DSPs). This is a day just for DSPs, to relax, rejuvenate, and bask in recognition away from the day-to-day routine.

Can I show up any time that day, and stroll around the Zoo & Aquarium?
No. The Recognition Event is a planned event that begins at 10 a.m. and includes presentations, activities, speakers, networking, etc. This all takes place at the Africa Event Center, which is our “gateway” into the Zoo & Aquarium (which is open to the public that day). In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to explore the grounds and see the animals, before we wrap up inside the Center.

Is this event really “free?”
Yes! When we say, “there’s no cost for DSPs,” we mean it – there’s NO cost. Registration includes parking, lunch, special guests, entertainment, activities, and access to the Zoo & Aquarium that day.

The registration form will only let me register 15 DSPs, including myself. What if my group is larger?
If you want to register more than 15 DSPs, wonderful! Visit the registration form as many times as needed, filling out the form with the next batch of DSPs, and avoiding repeating names (including your own).

When does registration close?
September 8, or when we’ve reached our capacity limit, whichever comes first.

What if I didn’t order a t-shirt when I registered, and now I want one?
The deadline for t-shirt orders passed. We will, however, have a limited number of shirts for purchase at the event.

Click here to register.

The 2023 DSP Recognition Event is supported by the following ABC Boosters. Thank you, Boosters!