2021 Outstanding DSP Award
Direct Support Professionals are at the heart of all we do. It has never been more abundantly clear how much DSPs sacrifice to ensure the individuals they support can live their best lives – especially during a global health crisis.
For the third year, MediSked is honoring Outstanding DSPs through our annual Award Program. This year we especially honor the DSPs who are putting themselves on the front lines during uncertain times. Three truly exceptional professionals who exemplify the important work carried out by providers each day were selected from entries across the country. Each of the narratives below was submitted by a colleague.
Ahmadi Mkambavange
Ahmadi has worked for Allied agencies for 28 years. During this pandemic, finding staff has proven to be more difficult as no one was applying for any position. An Allied home was understaffed for several months. Ahmadi, who usually works the third shift, stepped up and helped fill in some weekend positions, ensuring that Allied could maintain the correct staffing ratio. He is hardworking and respectful to the residents, his co-workers, and the supervisor.
Miranda Goette
Residential Opportunities, INC
At one point, due to the low pay for direct support professionals state-wide, Miranda went back to school so that she could switch to a higher paying career. Despite completing this schooling, when the Pandemic hit, Miranda did not feel it was a good time to leave the individuals she supported. She stayed through staffing shortages, illness, and low pay. She even resumed a shift supervisory position because she knew the individuals needed her.
Jude Mousel
Jude has been in his role for 14 years and advocates for the individuals he serves every day. Jude regularly attends medical appointments to ensure individuals’ concerns are being heard, even when they may not feel comfortable enough to tell their providers.
Jude is also an active member of the Imagine the Possibilities Special Olympics Team. He has been an Assistant Coach for 10 years, instilling confidence in the individuals he supports.
