Four Gabriel Homes staffers – Reuben, Jackie, Karen, and Essence –
… were selected as finalists in separate categories for the 2nd annual Direct Support Professional of the Year (DSPY) awards. Eleven Gabriel Homes staff were nominated for awards, and the four made the shortlist out of over 400 submissions from providers across Northern Virginia.
Providers nominated direct support professionals who best fit each category’s prompt. A diverse group of volunteers selected by the Northern Virginia Coalition of Providers reviewed submissions for the DSPYs categories.
“Our staff truly see our residents as extended family,” said Lynn Davis, executive director of Gabriel Homes. “They ensure residents have what they need and the support to succeed. It’s hard work, but our staff are committed to our residents and impress me every day!”
For the DSPY awards, Gabriel Homes submitted the following prompts for the four finalists:
Karen
Community Engagement: How do they seek out unique opportunities for individuals to engage in the community? Do they ensure the dignity of risk? Are they creative and encouraging to find new opportunities and not just opportunities that have been tried before?
“Karen (left) is full of energy and excitement! She has been with our organization for five years and for most of it, she’s covered the weekend and overnight shifts. Weekends have had more opportunities for fun, and Karen has never skipped a beat. If there haven’t been any set plans for residents, she’s initiated fun activities like going to the pool or to a local park for a stroll and outdoor lunch.”
Jackie
Compassion: How do they show caring and grace towards individuals even when they may be having challenging behaviors? Do they relate to someone else's situation and offer to help?
“Jackie (left) has been a guiding light and comforting presence with us since 2016. She shows empathy in her work and is always there to support our residents through their successes and struggles.
“Jackie is nonjudgmental, cheers others on, lends a listening ear, gives others space when needed, validates others’ feelings, and helps individuals learn to advocate for themselves. Embodying compassion and grace, Jackie makes us feel so fortunate to have her on our team.”
Reuben
Marathon: Longevity award goes to someone who has been with the organization for 10+ years AND never believes they are done learning and growing. Sees this as a career and not just a job.
“Working with our residents since 1997 hasn’t just been a career, but a calling for Reuben (left). He’s steady and keeps cool in the most stressful situations. He has a listening ear for our residents and is a calming presence when they go through turbulent times. Reuben has been there for our residents’ successes and struggles and has been a support through times of grief and end stages of life. Reuben is the North Star of our team & we are fortunate that he’s dedicated so much of his life to our residents.”
Essence
Positivity: How do they always see the bright side? Do they lift people up instead of breaking them down? How are they the bright spot in gloomy situations?
Essence has the remarkable ability to spread positivity wherever she goes. She stands out as a beacon of light, radiating joy, kindness, and optimism in every interaction. Offering words of encouragement, lending a helping hand, or simply sharing a warm smile, she seamlessly lifts others’ spirits and makes even the darkest days seem a little bit brighter. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, Essence reminds us that a positive outlook can make all the difference.
The DSPYs take place on September 12 in Fairfax to announce the winners. No matter the results, all Gabriel Homes staff are winners in our hearts for empowering our residents and building their independence.