In what has been a massive effort, the state of Connecticut is trying to move people out of traditional group home settings into more integrated, community-based living settings, and they are doing so through the Department of Developmental Services Supporting Transformation to Empower People Initiative, better known as the “DDS STEP Initiative.” Whether that living setting be an apartment or shared living, Connecticut wants to support more independence in the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities community. Within the last year, the Dungarvin Connecticut team has been recognized as being at the forefront of this initiative – cited as a model for other agencies to follow. Connecticut State Director, Robert Gallant, and Area Director, Melissa Mascari, have developed a plan that identifies barriers to independent living and what it will take to move past those obstacles allowing more people to succeed. They have been invited to share their plans by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) at Town Hall meetings. Late last year, Dungarvin presented to fellow providers further identifying tactics they have employed to successfully place more individuals in independent settings. Dungarvin Connecticut has identified 16 individuals with whom they are working closely, as well as their families, seeking opportunities for greater independence through this program. Read full article: https://www.dungarvin.com/news/the-dds-step-initiative-is-a-step-in-right-direction/
“Every day I witness coworkers living out the Dungarvin mission,” said Missy Walters. “We all have the same common goal and that is to better serve and support persons served as well as each other.” Missy has been supporting our mission for nine years (this month) and is currently the Administrative Department Supervisor and Dungarvin Office Manager for Minnesota, our National office, and three other satellite offices. She is committed, charismatic, and we are excited to share with you more about her through ‘5 questions with Missy Waters:’ 1. Who are your heroes in life? My grandparents and leaders/mentors in my life. You never know the life changing impact you can have on the trajectory of someone’s life when you believe in, invest in, and empower someone. 2. Why do you have a passion for this work? As a child, I wanted to be social worker so I could help people, but my over-worrying and compassionate personality would leave me heartbroken and overwhelmed, and I knew that the frontline wasn’t my place. In my role at Dungarvin, I know that at the end of day, in a behind the scenes way, I aid in helping people live their best lives. 3. What do you most value in a friend or a co-worker? Honesty, good character, values, work ethic, and a little fun never hurts. 4. What characteristic – or adjective – would people use to describe you? Caring, dependable, devoted, understanding, and compassionate. 5. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My marriage and my family.
In the world of disability support services, there are often many heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes to empower individuals to live their lives to the fullest. One such hero is William Pate, who was recognized as the 2021 Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Year by ANCOR, an advocacy organization working to strengthen the ability of community-based providers to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As the group announces its 2024 DSP of the Year winners in April, we contacted William to revisit his inspiring story. When he first met Caleb, a non-verbal individual with significant support needs, William immediately saw his potential. Despite initial reports that Caleb was unable to perform basic tasks, William envisioned a different future for him—one filled with independence and personal growth. Through personalized support and advocacy, William worked closely with Caleb and his support team to develop tailored teaching methods for each goal. He understood that true empowerment comes from individualized care and support and was determined to help Caleb achieve his personal goals. Over time, small but significant achievement paved the way for Caleb to tackle more significant goals, such as feeding himself and riding in vehicles. William’s unwavering commitment to Caleb’s success did not go unnoticed. Read full article: https://www.dungarvin.com/news/william-pate-direct-support-professional-of-the-year-2021/
