Horizon Project provides supports and opportunities for personal growth, integration, and independence to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities but we also provide professional development for the people who support them. Each team member have a special value to us and get to live a unique experience at HPI. Today we will have a joy to know a little bit about our team member Kendall, our Direct Support Professional 2, and learn from her.
1) When did you start working for HPI?
I started working for August of 2016.
2) Why did you become a Direct Support Professional at first?
I wanted to help others that didn’t have a voice. I saw the disconnect with people with disabilities with a gentleman in my class when I was in grade school, everyone didn’t understand him because he couldn’t hear and would distance themselves from him before the school taught us how to use ASL. I wanted to help others also understand that people are people.
3) What do you feel is the most important part of being a DSP?
Making sure that the ones we support are happy, healthy and have the best life that they want to live.
4) Could you share with us any memorable story/experience you had with clients?
One of my favorite stories is a gentleman I help take care of who would become upset at times, and he and I would go outside to moo like a cow until he was back down to a 2 to talk with staff. Or during Christmas time when managers and others went to each program to sing Christmas songs with the individuals.
5) Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to start working with IDD clients?
Be patient, learn their dislikes and their likes and always remember that they deserve the best life.
6) How has being a DSP (DSP 2) changed your idea of the IDD community?
It has changed my idea of IDD because when I was growing up it was feared but while working with individuals with IDD I have discovered that the ones I support just want to have the same life I live. They want to be loved and taken care for just like we all do.
Kendall is one of the amazing people that make difference and other people’s lives.
We are so thrilled to have her in our team!