The Barber National Institute had the distinct pleasure of welcoming Dr. Valerie Arkoosh, Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Human Services, along with other elected officials across the Commonwealth, yesterday for a day of productive conversations surrounding the future of services for adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism and their families.  

Secretary Arkoosh is seen speaking during a press conference at the Barber National Institute on Thursday, May 30, 2024.

There are currently 4,500 people across Pennsylvania waiting for services like those provided by the Barber National Institute. Our Adult Day and Residential services, for example, ensure that adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism can live healthy and fulfilling lives while taking part in a wide range of activities in their communities. Unfortunately, there are far too many individuals waiting for critical services and not enough direct support professionals (DSPs) necessary to provide these services.  

“Achieving an everyday life with dignity is a goal for so many of our neighbors, friends, and loved ones in ID/A communities, but when they must wait for services, we are falling short in helping them meet this goal. Every Pennsylvanian with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism should receive the supports they need when they need them,” said Secretary Arkoosh during a press conference during yesterday’s visit.  

In response to an increased need for skilled, compassionate, and committed DSPs, Governor Shapiro’s budget is proposing $483,000,000 in increased funding. This would allow service providers like the Barber National Institute and many others across Pennsylvania to increase pay for DSPs.  

At the Barber National Institute, DSPs play a significant role in helping our adults reach their full potential. Through their work, they can interact with others and gain a sense of independence. DSPs are the frontline workers who are both caregivers and advocates for people with a wide range of abilities and needs. Mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays you will find them in our group homes.  Yesterday’s visit by the Secretary was a true reflection of the support and admiration our community offers DSPs in response to the far-reaching impact of their work.     

Karen Groshek, the mother of a 26-year-old son with autism, expressed the importance of services for adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism and their families. “It is very difficult because these programs are essential for parents to continue on with their life and work and for the individuals to be happy and meeting their needs and enriched,” said Karen.  

It is incredibly important to create a strong vision for the future of the services available to adults with intellectual disabilities and their families. While we face some significant challenges, there is much promise in Governor Shapiro’s budget that would allow service providers to recruit and retain DSPs. It’s the key to mobilizing the change so many people across Pennsylvania are waiting to see.  

Governor Shapiro’s proposed budget must still be passed by the state house and senate.  If the proposed budget is approved, DSPs could see a salary increase as early as this summer. That would be a big win for everyone.