Congratulations to Laurie Hughes! You are the Shelby County Board of Developmental Disabilities provider of the month for February 2023!
Pictured above is Laurie with her client, Mary. Laurie has worked with Mary for 3 years. Mary says she loves working with her. Laurie is very dedicated and dependable. She keeps busy and always makes sure Mary has what she needs before she leaves. Laurie takes good care of Mary.
Best Part of Being a Provider
We asked Laurie what she thinks is the best part of being a provider. She said, “I love the work I do, because it makes me feel like I accomplish something great with every visit. I have worked in the DD field for 15 years. I have been an Independent Provider for 3 years. A good day at work is feeling good about making someone you serve feel great by how I help them start and end their day in a positive way.”
You Can Be a Provider, Too!
All people with various levels of abilities, sometimes need help. Providers are the key to independent living for those with developmental disabilities. Some typical duties of a provider include, transportation; attending meetings and social outings; assisting with grocery shopping, paying bills, and self-care; and ensuring health and safety.
A career as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) can be very rewarding and flexible. Someone as young as 16 years old can apply to work as a DSP with provider agencies. At 18 years old, they can work as an independent provider.
If you want to learn more about a career like Laurie’s, visit New Provider | WestCON (westconcog.org). You can also call the Shelby Co Board of DD office with any questions you might have. Our phone number is 937-497-8155.
You can also read more provider of the month experiences at Providers of the Month Archives | Shelby County Board of DD (shelbydd.org)