Margaret West – Ohio Direct Support Professional of the Year
Peggy has devoted more than 42 years to serving individuals with disabilities. She advocates for her clients and does her best to make sure they have what they want and need. She strives to make the clients feel secure at home and in relationships.
Peggy has supported people in building and maintaining relationships. She worked with a few individuals with severe intellectual disabilities who could not speak. Peggy was able to help them create bonds with each other and, through coaching and games, develop a communication system. She did not let the individuals’ inability to speak stop them from communicating with each other. The clients developed a bond by playing cards, and with Peggy’s physical and verbal assistance, they could be found giggling and smiling.
Many individuals Peggy works with have little to no family. Naturally, as most exceptional direct care staff do, Peggy becomes like family to them. She always works towards building and maintaining her relationship with the individual so they know they can trust and count on her. Peggy encourages clients to reach for the stars, think, and go bigger. When Peggy comes in for every shift, she will take the time to greet each person and spend quality one-on-one time with them to see how they are doing. She enjoys hearing them laugh and encourages clients to share stories about their favorite memories.
Peggy unfailingly provides care and support to both clients and fellow employees. She is very in tune with her clients’ needs and ensures that everyone is doing their best every day for the needs of all involved. Peggy sees the possibilities for all individuals and embodies this in her work every day.
Media Coverage
ResCare Community Living caregiver receives national award (The Times Leader)
