I would imagine that very few young people know what a “cog” is, since it is a term that is seldom used anymore. To me it is still relevant and makes a good analogy. For those that don’t know, a cog is a gear tooth on a wheel that turns a machine. Without the cogs, the wheel would remain motionless. At Tri-Valley, our cog is our direct support professionals (DSP) who make the machinery of services run.
What does a DSP do? A DSP ensures that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the necessary supports that enable them to live, work and enjoy life as independently as possible in their community. Tri-Valley has over one hundred DSPs that are responsible for all aspects of an individuals life including dressing, bathing, employment, meal preparation, transportation and community activities to name just a few. We have had quite a few outstanding DSPs over the years, ones that make a lifelong impact on the people we serve. Some have become mother figures, close friends, while others have become family. They have helped people learn how to read, how to bathe, how to set the table, how to go shopping, how to work at a job, the list is endless.
September has been designated DSP Recognition Month and I would like to take this time to recognize a few DSPs at Tri-Valley for their dedication and accomplishments.
In Iola, we have Donna Nicholson, who is also in our residential program. She is very easy to get along with and will work extra shifts if necessary to ensure we have the necessary coverage. Another hard worker, she enjoys spending time with the people we serve. At our day program in Iola we have Jerry Steele and Toni Dryden. Jerry assists with our contract work and does a fantastic job ensuring that products are shipped without any flaws or defects. He makes the work enjoyable for the people we serve. He never complains and is also very caring. Toni works in our Life Enrichment program where she ensures that the individuals she works with are as active as possible. She enjoys taking them to the city parks, doing exercise classes with them, and even makes cards for them when they are sick. She is a very dedicated and caring employee who puts a smile on the faces of the people she works with.
In Humboldt, Christie Westbrook works in the residential program and is one of the most cheerful people you will ever meet. She is positive and happy to assist in any way she can. She never questions instructions and works extra shifts whenever she is asked. She even helps recruit other employees for the agency.
We also have DSPs in Fort Scott and Chanute, but space limits their individual mention. If allowed, I would discuss each and everyone of our direct support professionals. They are what make us function as a provider of supports and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
