Barbara Sykes – Indiana Direct Support Professional of the Year
Barbara exemplifies personalized care for all of the individuals she serves. She uses a caring approach to ensure the individuals choose preferred activities and attends support meetings to advocate on their behalf. She has the respect and admiration of the individuals and providers she serves. Barbara advocates for her clients to build positive relationships with their loved ones, while also assisting them in building relationships within their community and gaining a sense of independence.
Barbara has created a family-like environment at the site she serves. Each individual she cares for has everything they need, and the clients’ families feel welcomed while visiting. Barbara has earned the respect of those she supports, and they often look to her for guidance.
Barbara will always do what is needed to ensure the health and safety of the individuals she supports. Recently, she helped transition one of her clients to another waiver home. She worked with each staff member, manager and lead, thoroughly training them on the individual’s plan to ensure a successful transition. Barbara always goes the extra mile.
