This year, the recipient of the Donna Steed Community Inclusion Award was Jessica Barrett, a Program Director of the Women’s Residential Program. In order to remember and honor Donna Steed, her love of being a part of her community, and her personal journey for self-determination, this award was created in 2003 to recognize an employee each year who exemplifies community involvement and her spirit.
Jessica works in multiple homes across the organization, and regardless of whether she is serving as a supervisor or as direct care staff, she consistently takes the time to listen to the individuals we support, learn about their interests, and create opportunities for them to explore and enjoy those interests. Her person-centered approach ensures that individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered to pursue meaningful experiences.
Jessica is also exceptional at fostering connections and building relationships. She frequently brings people together, whether by arranging visits between individuals from different homes, hosting dinner guests during shifts, or organizing community activities such as paint nights, walks in the park, and other social outings. She understands the importance of community inclusion and works tirelessly to help individuals expand their social networks and engage with the world around them.
Through her creativity, compassion, and dedication, Jessica helps create meaningful experiences, lasting memories, and stronger relationships among the individuals we serve, their peers, and members of the broader community. Her commitment to enhancing the quality of life and promoting genuine community involvement makes a lasting impact on everyone she supports.
Congratulations, Jessica, well deserved!