A common theme for Direct Support Professionals (DSP) is a passion for supporting people and assisting them in achieving their goals. However, how people come to the profession, and what they're looking to achieve can be very different. For some, it's a critical stepping stone to another career in health care and human services. For others, it's a fulfilling place to land for a career change.
For many, like Lyndi Hudson of Tender Loving Care and Jennifer Husom of Life By Design, it's a lifelong career born from childhood experiences.
Enriching Lives, Creating Innovative Supports
Lyndi Hudson learned from her mother at a young age that small actions can have huge impacts in a person's life, and that her professional career would be filled with chances to make a difference. Lyndi was selected as one of the 2018 ARRM Cares Winners as an outstanding DSP in part because she realizes the importance of the those small actions and accomplishments for people and therefore is a tirelessly creative support for people seeking to reach their goals.
Friend, Teacher, Mentor, Advocate
Jenn Husom has played the role of DSP even before she was old enough to be a DSP. With a mother working in the field, Jenn was exposed to a field of work dedicated to the value of ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live their best life and make choices about their independence. She began volunteering as a kid and has never lost her passion for supporting people to use their unique skills and traits to reach their goals. That lifelong commitment means she's been a part of some people's lives for decades, like Fred. That special relationship and skill to transition between friend, teacher, mentor, and advocate has been a significant part of the foundation Fred built to move into his apartment, grow a great relationship with his girlfriend, and become an advocate for others seeking greater independence and autonomy. Fred was the first out of his chair to cheer Jenn when she received a 2018 ARRM Cares Award.
Share Jenn and Lyndi's story, and add your own example of lifelong passion for supporting people.
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