#iameasterseals DSP Week 2020- Staff Spotlights
9/16/2020
Tell us your story. Take a minute to tell us why you do what you do and what you love about being a DSP and post it on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram with the hashtag - #iameasterseals. When you submit your story, you will be entered into a contest for a raffle basket valued at over $300. If you do not have a social media account feel free to email me your story directly. Here are a few stories that have been shared to date:
Kait Calys-Strohm, Individual Support Supervisor, St. Louis - One reason I love this job is because it allows me to be creative and think outside the box (in non-social work-y ways) so I can support my clients! My client, Thomas, has struggled with wearing a mask and his parents were concerned about what they would do once he returned to school and had to wear a mask there. Last month I suggested we start by slowly exposing him to the mask and only wearing it for a few minutes at a time and slowly building it from there. I have this stuffed monkey that Thomas really enjoys playing with so I fashioned a miniature monkey-sized mask for it hoping that it may encourage Thomas to try wearing a mask. And it worked!! As soon as Thomas saw the monkey with its mask on he immediately asked to put on his own mask. The very first day he ended up wearing a mask for nearly an hour straight (which is a big feat even for some adults!). Thomas and I continue to practice wearing masks and he likes to remind me “Wear your coronavirus mask—gotta stay safe, Kait!”
Kassondra Bilyeu, Community Living Specialist, Springfield - I started working in this field about 4 1/2 years ago, I immediately loved it! I didn’t know much about disabilities before this field, but a little over a year ago I learned my youngest son has Autism and other developmental disabilities. My own experience with my sons disabilities has definitely helped me with the individuals I work with. I’ve built some great bonds with them. It’s amazing to watch them grow and learn what they’re capable of and gives me so much hope for my sons future.
Tasha Beck, Community Living Specialist, St. Joseph - My name is Tasha, I am 35 years old and have been working with/volunteering with this population of individuals since I was 14 years old. Being an ally of these amazing individuals has taught me to appreciate life and not take little things for granted. I have been fortunate enough to get to know many of the individuals Easterseals and other agencies serve while assisting in Special Olympics activities over the years and while working closely with a small group of my friends and family to host dances for the individuals as well. When I'm not working, I attend online classes through North Central Missouri College earning my associates degree in Behavioral Health Support. I will graduate in December, and then plan to go forward with my bachelors either in Psychology or Social Work. Whatever I decide to do with my degree I want to continue working with the consumers as they need people to advocate for them (some more than others) many need a voice and it’s up to us as DSP to support them in these ways.
Eden Daly, Autism Specialist, Columbia office - Why do I do what I do? Because my life needed to be directed in a way that would serve, to help and to be enriched. I entered this field over 30 years ago because of my sweet Uncle Donald. Growing up I only saw that “different” was not “normal” and would not include those with special needs. We laughed at, ridiculed and demeaned the very person that I would laugh with, admire and place on a pedestal later in life. I have grown, because of each of you. I have learned because of each of you. I will continue to support, advocate and love BECAUSE OF EACH ONE OF YOU. You and your families have made me better and I couldn’t be more thankful for allowing me to share in your journey. Because of you, #iameasterseals.
David Ish, Community Services Specialist, St. Louis - As retirement nears I look back over my work history. I started working in 1979 at a residential treatment center in Indiana and Tom was one of the clients I worked with as a Recreational Therapist. I will be ending my work world working where Tom was employed before his retirement. I can’t tell you how meaningful and overjoyed I was to find him within our organization! #iameasterseals
Renee Becker, Community Living Supervisor, Springfield - I have been with easterseals for almost 5 years now. I have many moments that made me think “this is why I am here”. I am here for the smiles, to be a part of the story even when there are rough chapters before we get to the big win. When we are able to see all of the hard work, dedication, and maybe a few tears got us to a place that seemed almost impossible before. Learning to count money, growing comfortable going into the community, to have a job, making new friends, and whatever else they are working toward: Those smiles that say “look, I did it” are why I am here.
“I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot: together we can do great things.” – Mother Teresa
Laurel Taylor
Chief Human Resources Officer
