24 Hours of Care: Direct Care Workers Recognition Week

At ServiceNet, our direct support workers are the heart of everything we do. Last week, we celebrated National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week by highlighting the diverse work and dedication of our staff—from residential care to day programs, outreach, and more. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and compassion, and we want to shine a light on the incredible impact they have on the lives of everyone around them.

Our 24-hour photo project was an absolute joy to create. Visiting residential homes, programs, and more, we were continually amazed by the dedication and care of our staff. These photos capture just a glimpse of the depth and breadth of a direct support professional’s work, and the incredible ways they transform lives through their presence, compassion, and support every day.

: 5 am: While most of the world sleeps, our overnight staff are finishing up paperwork—making sure every note is ready for the next shift. If someone needed extra care or comfort in the late hours, it’s all documented so nothing gets missed. Care happens around the clock, and we’re grateful for the team that makes it possible.

: 6 am: As soon as the sun is up, so are our residents. From making breakfast to sharing smiles at the start of the day, our direct care staff help mornings begin with comfort, care, and connection.

: 7 am: At our emergency adult shelter, staff start the day early, preparing breakfast for guests and making sure everyone is ready for the morning rush.

: 8 am: At our day programs and other services, staff arrive ready to engage with participants, sharing friendship, joy, and meaningful experiences every day.

: 9 am: The day begins at Rooster Cafe! Our live culinary training eatery is buzzing as staff and trainees prep the day’s menu, sharpening skills and serving up delicious experiences for everyone who walks through the door.

: 10 am: Morning chores at Prospect Meadow Farm are in full swing! From milking goats to tending the animals, our team shows a whole new definition of direct care—hands-on, heart-in, and making a difference every day.

: 11 am: Morning chores at Prospect Meadow Farm are in full swing! From milking goats to tending the animals, our team shows a whole new definition of direct care—hands-on, heart-in, and making a difference every day.

: 12 pm: Direct Care isn’t just for humans—it’s for our furry and feathered friends, too! Some of the best companions in our programs are our therapeutic goats, chickens, dogs, rabbits, and more. Take Bear, for example. This playful pup at the Strive Clinic greets clients and staff every day, offering comfort, lifting spirits, and spreading joy wherever he goes.

: 1 pm: Our day programs are all about learning, fun, and growth. As fall brings cooler days, it’s the perfect weather for some post-lunchtime dodgeball in the sun!

: 2 pm: Staff—and their best four-legged friend —bring extra joy and fun to the Enrichment Center, spreading smiles and wagging tails all around!

: 3 pm: At Skillbuilders, our direct care staff make creativity possible! By guiding and supporting participants in art and technology, they help everyone explore, imagine, and create every day.

: 4 pm: The Friendship Band rocks through collaboration! Direct care staff and participants from our Whole Children and Milestones programs come together to bring energy, creativity, and pure joy to every gig across Western Mass.

: 5 pm: No day looks the same for our direct care workers! The Nexus staff and participants were thrilled to join the Franklin County Parade, helping kick off the Fair in Greenfield with energy and smiles all around.

: 6 pm: As the day winds down, our direct care workers are at the heart of it all—administering medications, prepping dinner, and making sure every evening is safe, smooth, and welcoming for residents.

: 7 pm: A little evening art project is the perfect way to wind down the day. Our direct care workers guide and support residents as they create, relax, and end the day on a colorful note.

: 8 pm: Direct care staff are the keepers of the details! From logging important information for the next shift to ensuring continuity in our 24-hour residences, they make sure every day—and every night—runs smoothly.

: 9 pm: As the day winds down, our direct care staff are hard at work—tidying up shared spaces and taking notes to keep the next shift informed. Their attention to detail helps every evening end smoothly and safely.

: 11 pm: While everyone sleeps, our direct care staff are quietly keeping the house in order. From tidying up to making sure everything is ready for the next day, their work behind the scenes keeps our homes safe, welcoming, and running smoothly.

: 12 am: Direct care doesn’t stop when the lights go out. Our overnight staff are the unsung heroes—keeping the house safe, lending a listening ear, and even tackling the laundry so residents wake up to a fresh start. Thank you to the incredible team members who make sure care never sleeps.

: 1 am: Direct care doesn’t stop when the lights go out. Our overnight staff are the unsung heroes—keeping the house safe, lending a listening ear, and even tackling the laundry so residents wake up to a fresh start. Thank you to the incredible team members who make sure care never sleeps.

: 2-3 am: While our family shelter residents rest, our overnight staff work quietly behind the scenes — taking inventory, cleaning, and preparing the space for a busy morning ahead.

: 4 am: While residents are sleeping, our direct care staff are hard at work—wiping down counters, tidying shared spaces, and making sure every corner feels like home. Their care goes beyond support—it’s about creating a safe, welcoming place to live.