Angel DeJesus – New Jersey Direct Support Professional of the Year
Angel DeJesus acts as a true champion for the individuals he supports. He has worked across several programs during his seven years of employment with ResCare, and he quickly builds relationships with service recipients and co-workers alike. Angel has been so successful in this area because he is an active listener and works to understand what makes others happy and motivated.
Anthony, a long-time service recipient, described Angel as a caring listener who is fun to be around and supportive, someone he can truly trust.
Anthony came to the program after having lived at home with family for many years, and this was his first experience living in a group home. Angel immediately took steps to make Anthony’s transition easier and alleviate any anxiety about the move.
By the end of Anthony’s first year, he genuinely enjoyed himself and thrived. Angel understood the importance of involving Anthony’s family in his service plan to meet his needs. Anthony’s experience at ResCare with Angel’s support was so successful that his story was included in the Rutgers School of Public Health publication My Life Now.
Family members, funders, and community members agree that Angel’s success as a human service professional is primarily due to his creative, compassionate, and person-centered approach to his work. He is the first to lend a hand to co-workers, has a ready smile for everyone, and is adept at communicating with families, funders, supervisors, peers, and community members. He inspires others to be their best.