When you’re a residential service provider, you’re also a chef, event planner, career coach, fashionista, makeup artist, trainer, and more.
Celebrating Our DSPs
Keynote speakers Mikelle Murray-Jarosz (left) and Nancy Mercer (right) of Inclusion Consultants championed these thoughts at the second annual Direct Support Provider of the Year Awards (DSPYs). Nancy celebrated all the roles DSPs tackle for residents, while Michelin touched upon all the work our service providers do.
Over 100 attendees came together for the DSPYs, which celebrated providers across Northern Virginia for wearing endless job hats for residents. Held by the NOVA Coalition of Providers, a diverse panel selected nine winners and over 50 nominees out of over 400 submissions.
“It feels good to see staff being recognized across the region. Recognizing them shows that their work makes a difference. Seeing them be rewarded for their hard work is wonderful.”
Naomi Pariona, Gabriel Homes Residential Counselor
Four Gabriel Homes staff were finalists for awards.
Reuben was on the shortlist for the Marathon Award for his decades of service to the residents. Karen was nominated for the Community Engagement Award for setting up weekend activities for residents. Jackie’s validation and advocacy for the residents made her a finalist for the Compassion Award. And Essence was shortlisted for the Positivity Award thanks to her encouragement of residents and ability to lift her teammates’ spirits.