(DSA) Day Support Activities
Day Support Activities (DSA) is a specialized category of care available to individuals who receive DSA services through their Individual Support Plan (ISP). At Essential Services, we offer a variety of activities and events that can be billed under DSA when appropriate. Individuals who do not receive DSA support can still attend and participate in these experiences, working on personal goals and skills in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

We Provide Engaging Day Support Activities
Whether it’s the excitement of bowling at a local alley or the calm of walking through the scenic beauty of the Pacific Northwest, our participants enjoy experiences that support a healthy, active lifestyle.
Our DSPs support individuals in a variety of variety of structured and flexible activities that encourage creativity, learning, and personal development. Individualos can express themselves through art, strengthen cognitive skills, and take part in recreational activities that promote well-being and social interaction.
Essential Services offers organized group events and activities for clients to enjoy, which can supplement the community-based DSA supports provided by their DSPs.
What type of Day Support Activities do we provide?

Creative Expression
Through drawing, painting, and crafts, participants can explore their artistic abilities while developing fine motor skills and self-confidence.

Volunteering & Community Engagement
Our Direct Support Professionals work with clients to explore opportunities outside of their homes to build confidence and independence. This includes attending public events, volunteering with local organizations, and accessing resources in their communities.

Events & Social Activities
We coordinate events and social activities for the I/DD community each month. These opportunities to connect are designed to support relationship-building and community engagement. Learn more about upcoming events and RSVP now.

Relaxation & Entertainment
Our events and social activities are designed for every energy level. If you're looking for a low-key opportunity to connect with friends in the community and relax, check out a movie screening, game night, or holiday party event.
Nurturing Community Engagement and Communication Through Day Support Activities
Day Support Activities are meant to help people with I/DD build real-life skills for everyday life while engaging in their communities. Support focuses on using public resources, becoming more self-aware, and practicing interactions with others—through both words and body language.
We also support individuals in learning how to handle social situations—starting and ending conversations, staying safe in public, and understanding what to do around people they don’t know. People also learn how to use tools like phones, clocks, computers, and signs to manage their day more easily. Each person we support has clear, personal goals written into their Individual Support Plan (ISP), which guides how we help them grow and stay connected in their community.
What are the benefits of our Day Support Activities?
- Opportunities to engage in social situations help individuals develop stronger communication skills and build relationships.
- Greater independence comes from practicing daily tasks and using local resources confidently.
- Increased community involvement helps individuals engage, reduce isolation, and build connections.
- Skill development supports growth in practical and social areas like time use and personal safety.
- Boosted self-esteem and confidence come from trying new things and achieving personal goals.
At the core of what we do is helping people build relationships and feel like they belong. We encourage each person to share their interests, culture, and talents with others. Whether it’s joining a group, helping lead a project, or trying something new, we help individuals find ways to be part of their community in a way that fits their life. We want people to have the confidence to make choices, plan their day, and be part of something meaningful.
Eligibility
To use our services, you must meet the Office of Developmental Disability Services criteria for an intellectual or developmental disability and be eligible for K-Plan services. If you’re interested, talk to your case manager to confirm your eligibility. You can then request to add our services to your ISP. Once approved, Essential Services, LLC will be authorized to work with you.
Services
Service Codes
OR542:
• RS Community Solo, W2 Community
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Day Support Activities?
Day Support Activities (DSA) is a specialized category of care designed to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in engaging their community and overcoming barriers to access and inclusion while outside of their home.
Who can participate in Day Support Activities?
Anyone with an Individual Support Plan (ISP) that qualifies for Day Support Activities (DSA) can receive Direct Support Professional (DSP) support for DSA.