Direct Care Workers

Most people don't know what direct care workers do, let alone why it matters.  Firefighters, police officers, and emergency responders are honored for their community service.  We contribute just as much to society, but too often our only reward is the thanks we get from the people we assist.

The Direct Care Alliance helps us advocate for the wages, benefits, training, working conditions, career advancement opportunities, and respect we deserve. We know how meaningful and rewarding direct care work can be, because we know what a difference we make in the lives of the people we assist. Just because people need some help with daily activities, that doesn't mean they should have to sacrifice their independence or dignity or community ties. A good direct care worker can make sure they don't.

We want to stop the revolving door of turnover and make this job into a career we can commit to – without risking our own families' financial or physical health.

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And don't forget to sign up for our free online newsletter, to stay in touch with news by, for, and about direct care workers and notification about more opportunities to join in the DCA's advocacy efforts.

"As part of the Voices Institute, I found a network of new friends and colleagues. Being united with others who have a background similar to mine, identifying and relating to one another, feeling a kinship and a bond that comes only from common adversity, and acting as mirrors to each other's strengths and weaknesses as direct care workers and direct care worker advocates was one of the most inspirational times in my life."

Bridget Siljander, direct support professional
DCA Direct Care Worker Specialist