We celebrate Direct Support Professionals Week!

Saratoga Bridges, along with the NYS Office of Persons With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), is pleased to announce that September 8-14 has been designated as Direct Support Professional (DSP) week!  The increasing DSP workforce is necessary to increase to meet the needs of the escalating number of individuals diagnosed with Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorders.  Due to the increase of population in Saratoga County, Saratoga Bridges and its staff are impacted by the growth. 

DSP2013

Wendy Ashe, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, and Donna DiBacco

“We are always looking for ways to expand our services.  Based on what our individuals and their families ask of us, we reach out to our staff all the time to ask how we can provide better services,”  Valerie Muratori said.  She added, “Our dedicated employees give their creativity, energy and passion to their positions, but are often unrecognized throughout the community.  These individuals need to be celebrated as they provide invaluable support and services to persons with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities 24/7, 365 days a year.  They are responsible for their health, safety and emotional well-being, encouraging them to live more meaningful, dignified and productive lives by promoting independence.  In doing so, they positively impact the organization and raise awareness in the community of how our workforce makes a difference every day.”

Saratoga Bridges will be recognizing our devoted, committed staff members throughout the week with various activities. 

In an effort to highlight some of our outstanding DSP’s, we asked our 2013 Employees of the Years to answer questions as a way for you to get to know them better.   

Karen Staulters, Dietician

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I like working for Saratoga Bridges because I enjoy trying to keep our consumers healthy through nutrition. In small ways, I hope I am making a difference in the lives of our consumers. I love how every day is different.

Who gives you inspiration?

My grandfather, who never said an unkind word to anyone.

When do you feel the most happiness?

I feel the most happiness when I see the big smile on a consumer’s face when I tell them they have lost some more weight. I feel the most happiness outside of work when I am doing things with my kids.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

My favorite hangout is at a library doing genealogy research or sitting by a lake relaxing.

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I work as an Archivist for the United Methodist Church covering the whole state of NY north of Kingston. I have been doing genealogy research since 1991 and enjoy scrapbooking.

Wendy Ashe, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I like working for Saratoga Bridges for a few reasons.  I’m fortunate that in my position I have much variety, which keeps things fresh.  Management has assisted me to use and develop skills to share with participants, and in addition to my OT clinical responsibilities I’m afforded the opportunity to offer yoga at a few sites, participate in the “One Voice” choral group, and lead a weekly sing along at Wilton DH.  I’m also a member of the SASSI clinical team, which offers consultative services for individuals and families of children with autism.  Twice/year I also co-lead a yoga session which is offered to children and their parent/caregiver.  The clinical team also conducts a Dinner and Discussion Group 1x/month for young adults with autism.  It’s all very satisfying.  In addition, the people employed in this type of work are people who enjoy working with other people, so they’re great co-workers. 

Who gives you inspiration?

Participants who come to work every day with a bright mind, who are trapped in a body that doesn’t work quite right and yet are able to express joy, authenticity, and meaning in life inspire me.  Co-workers who come to work day after day with a smile on their face and a positive attitude though they know they’ll be facing some challenges, unpleasant tasks or repetitive tasks inspire me.   

When do you feel the most happiness?

I feel the happiest when I look at radiant faces smiling with pride and happiness after they’ve sung well at a rehearsal or a concert, or in a music sing along, or when they’ve accomplished a yoga pose.  It gives me much happiness to assist OT participants to create a craft or accomplish a goal and to see their pride in their work.  Sometimes I’m overjoyed when a participant has simply smiled at me, because it’s one of the few things he/she can do, and I know it’s genuine. 

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

When I’m not working I love to be on the Hudson River, in a kayak or on a deck, watching beautiful sunsets, and looking at the stars. 

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I enjoy singing and playing guitar in two contemporary Christian music groups.  I really love it when my brother and my kids all get together and Jam.  All of us have different styles of playing guitar and singing, and it’s fun to experience the diversity!  I also enjoy doing yoga, Reiki, and occasionally Cranio Sacral Therapy.  And I especially enjoy playing with grandchildren!

Diane McFarland, Day Habilitation Assistant at Ballston Spa Day Program

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I like to work here because we enjoy working with people and helping people out in the community.

Who gives you inspiration?

My father inspires me. 

When do you feel the most happiness?

Being with family and friends and feeling appreciated. 

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

Home or by the campfire. 

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I enjoy knitting, cooking and traveling. 

Diane Deeb, Individual Support Aide

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I like my boss, Tina, the time I work and my consumer and his family.

When do you feel the most happiness?

Watching my consumer attain his goals in life.  I enjoy his kindness and happiness.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

Being with my consumer and his family, dog, kayaking, and exercising.

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I always have been treated with respect and appreciation.

Jennifer Rivers, Program Coordinator at Wilton Day Habilitation

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I like working for Saratoga Bridges because I truly enjoy working with all of our folks and my wonderful co-workers. We have a fantastic team of employees who are always willing to help each other out. Everyone is enthusiastic and cares a great deal about the guys.

Who gives you inspiration?

My family gives me my inspiration. I have three teenage boys who provide me with the inspiration to continue with my schooling and to further better myself.

When do you feel the most happiness?

When my entire family is able to get together.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

Every summer my mother visits and we all hangout on Lake George, swimming, kayaking, and just relaxing by the lake. So that is probably my favorite place to be.

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I love to read, it seems like I have been in school forever, so I do love continuing to learn new things and challenging myself while doing so.  

Kelley Morency, Medicaid Service Coordinator 

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I like working for Saratoga Bridges for many reasons.  I started off in Direct Care at Clifton Park and I knew right away that this was the field for me.  I loved working with the consumers and coming up with new and exciting activities for my room.  I was able to get great hands on experience before I moved to my current position, Medicaid Service Coordinator.  As a Service Coordinator, my caseload is filled with a variety of individuals which keeps things interesting.  I like being able to work with children, adults, and their families.  A perk of my job is that I am not confined to my cubicle all day; I am able to visit individuals in their home, day program, or out in the community.  I always look forward to meeting with my consumers and seeing their progress.

Who gives you inspiration?

My mother and father, two of the hardest working people I know.

When do you feel the most happiness?

I feel the most happiness when I help an individual achieve a life goal.  Outside of work, I am happiest when I am listening to music and dancing like no one is watching.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

Any place where I can listen to live music.  Or sitting in my comfy chair with my cat, Zoe.

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I enjoy camping, playing basketball, and spending time with my family and friends.  I love exposing people to new music.

Kurt Freeman, Information Systems Implementation and Information Specialist

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

Two words, the people.  Never before have I had the pleasure of spending my days among a group of people whose positive attitude is infectious.  It is a rare day when I do not leave here in a generally good mood and feeling that, at least in some small way, I have made a positive difference in somebody’s day.  I had an experience within the first couple weeks I started working here that illustrates this positive environment.  I was walking between the Admin and Alpha buildings when one of our vans pulled up to the curb outside Alpha to drop off people for their programs when one of the van’s occupants leaned out the window and greeted me like I was a long-time friend saying with a big smile, “Hey!  How’re you doing?  It’s good to see you.”  I was taken aback momentarily, but responded with something like “I’m just fine.  It’s good to see you too.”  I thought to myself…..”Yeah, this is a good place.”

Who gives you inspiration?

Many people inspire me in different ways.  Of course, my mom and dad inspired me with their values and gentle nurturing I was fortunate enough to have had.  My colleagues here in the IS/IT department are also inspiring for their professionalism and command of their respective fields of expertise.  I learn something new every week and sometimes every day.  I’m also inspired by my band mates in “One Voice” when I see how much they have developed into one fine ensemble….keep on rockin’, my friends.

When do you feel the most happiness?

Aside from playing music, and fishing, I’m happiest when I see a program or system I have developed work as I planned.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

Hands down, my favorite place to hangout is fishing on my boat on Lake George.

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I like fishing, playing music, gardening, and cooking.

Nichole Howe, Assistant Residence Manager at Malta Ave

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I enjoy working with the individuals we serve here at Saratoga Bridges and have made many long term friends and relationships with staff and folks alike.

Who gives you inspiration?

Seeing my folks overcome the many challenges they face on a daily basis inspires me to be the best I can every day.

When do you feel the most happiness?

I am most happy when I end my day with a sense of accomplishment, whether it be my own or helping someone else.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

When I’m not working I enjoy time with loved ones and my pets!

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I like to get out and pursue my photography when time allows.

Dave Pitcher, Custodian

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I like talking and kidding around with the consumers.

Who gives you inspiration?

The people Saratoga Bridges serves every day.

When do you feel the most happiness?

When I am playing with my 3 cats Ozzie, Blackie & Puppy and my dog Emma.  I love going on cruises and look forward to our vacation next March.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

On the computer.

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I like to bowl, watch baseball on TV (I am a die-hard Mets fan even if they have a lousy team) and playing hidden objects games on the computer

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two words, the people.  Never before have I had the pleasure of spending my days among a group of people whose positive attitude is infectious.  It is a rare day when I do not leave here in a generally good mood and feeling that, at least in some small way, I have made a positive difference in somebody’s day.  I had an experience within the first couple weeks I started working here that illustrates this positive environment.  I was walking between the Admin and Alpha buildings when one of our vans pulled up to the curb outside Alpha to drop off people for their programs when one of the van’s occupants leaned out the window and greeted me like I was a long-time friend saying with a big smile, “Hey!  How’re you doing?  It’s good to see you.”  I was taken aback momentarily, but responded with something like “I’m just fine.  It’s good to see you too.”  I thought to myself…..”Yeah, this is a good place.”

Who gives you inspiration?

Many people inspire me in different ways.  Of course, my mom and dad inspired me with their values and gentle nurturing I was fortunate enough to have had.  My colleagues here in the IS/IT department are also inspiring for their professionalism and command of their respective fields of expertise.  I learn something new every week and sometimes every day.  I’m also inspired by my band mates in “One Voice” when I see how much they have developed into one fine ensemble….keep on rockin’, my friends.

When do you feel the most happiness?

Aside from playing music, and fishing, I’m happiest when I see a program or system I have developed work as I planned.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

Hands down, my favorite place to hangout is fishing on my boat on Lake George.

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I like fishing, playing music, gardening, and cooking.

Nichole Howe, Assistant Residence Manager at Malta Ave

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I enjoy working with the individuals we serve here at Saratoga Bridges and have made many long term friends and relationships with staff and folks alike.

Who gives you inspiration?

Seeing my folks overcome the many challenges they face on a daily basis inspires me to be the best I can every day.

When do you feel the most happiness?

I am most happy when I end my day with a sense of accomplishment, whether it be my own or helping someone else.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

 When I’m not working I enjoy time with loved ones and my pets!

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I like to get out and pursue my photography when time allows.

Dave Pitcher, Custodian

Why do you like working for Saratoga Bridges?

I like talking and kidding around with the consumers.

Who gives you inspiration?

The people Saratoga Bridges serves every day.

When do you feel the most happiness?

When I am playing with my 3 cats Ozzie, Blackie & Puppy and my dog Emma.  I love going on cruises and look forward to our vacation next March.

Where is your favorite hangout when you’re not working?

On the computer.

What other hobbies, interests, talents or information would you like to share?

I like to bowl, watch baseball on TV (I am a die-hard Mets fan even if they have a lousy team) and playing hidden objects games on the computer