Category: Blog

Outstanding Direct Support Professionals: DSP Week 2024

To celebrate Direct Support Professionals Week (Sept. 8-14th), we’re highlighting DSPs who go above and beyond across all five of our service states. Leaders in North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania helped identify team members who are making a difference in their community through their work at RHA Health Servies.

Discover the joy and passion behind our dedicated DSPs below: 

Tennessee

Denise Fleming

“I was looking for a job that had meaning and purpose. I was blessed to have the privilege to become a DSP. It makes my day just to come to work and see those smiling faces. I always go home with a blessed heart at the end of every shift.” – Denise Fleming
 
 
 

Ethel Alexander

“I love my job. I became a DSP to make a difference in people’s lives. My favorite part about being a DSP is seeing a smile on an individual’s face. It lets me know that I can make a difference with the people we serve.” – Ethel Alexander
 
 
 
 

North Carolina

Danrico Fulmore

“My favorite part about being a DSP is learning from the people I care for. There is something to learn from them every day. Most people don’t know how much residents depend on DSPs. It means a lot to me to be recognized as an excellent Direct Support Professional.” – Danrico Fulmore
 
 

New Jersey

Tynesha Foster

“What most people do not know about this work is that it can be incredibly challenging, yet impactful and life-changing for the staff and the individuals that we serve. My favorite part of the job are the moments my team and I are able to celebrate some of the many milestones.” – Tynesha Foster
 
 

Joyce Washington

“Being an excellent DSP means going beyond just meeting the basic needs of the individuals we support. It’s about building relationships, understanding the individual’s uniqueness, advocating for their rights, and allowing the individual an opportunity to safely try big or small goals, regardless of the outcomes. It requires patience, empathy, and adaptability.” – Joyce Washington
 
 

Georgia

Alishia Vandyke 

 “I think the perfect person to become a DSP would be someone who likes to help people and see what they do really makes a difference. Someone with patience and understanding in difficult situations. Someone who is highly motivated to see the individuals live their best lives.” – Alishia Vandyke
 
 
 

Thomas Adams 

 “My favorite part about being a DSP is providing a service to our individuals! Most people don’t know that working as a DSP gives you a rewarding feeling. I find that being a DSP brings me happiness because I get the chance to provide a service to someone in need.” – Thomas Adams
 
 
 

Pennsylvania

Theresa Reeder 

“It is extremely rewarding to know that I am making a difference in someone’s life while providing quality care. Being a DSP provides me with a meaningful purpose in my life. While I help my individuals grow, I am also growing with them. I absolutely love my job!” – Theresa Reeder 
 
 

Thank you to the Direct Support Professionals who participated in this feature. We are proud of the incredible DSPs working at RHA that support people living their best lives. It is because of you that RHA continues to be a place #WhereHumansBloom.

If this article has inspired you, or you know someone who may want to become a Direct Support Professional, please visit rhajobs.com to view available positions near you.

RHA Opens New IDD Services Facility in Rogersville, TN

Rogersville, TN – RHA Health Services is proud to announce the opening of a new facility in Rogersville, dedicated to providing exceptional care and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).  

Located at 209 S. Depot Street, Rogersville, TN 37857, the new facility will offer a range of services, including community living, family model residential supports, personal care, and supported employment. These services are designed to support individuals in living fulfilling, independent lives within their communities. 

 “We’re thrilled to be bringing our services to Rogersville. This new facility is a big step in our mission to make a positive impact in the community and help more people lead fulfilling lives,” said Amanda Maez, Program Administrator.

The opening of this facility demonstrates RHA Health Services’ dedication to providing quality care in Tennessee. RHA Health Services is proud to play a crucial role in promoting independence, improving quality of life, and fostering community integration for individuals with disabilities across the state.

Young man with cerebral palsy laughing outdoors in city. He is using a wheelchair.
                                                             

About RHA Health Services: 

RHA Health Services is a leading provider of comprehensive support and care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), mental health issues, and substance use challenges. Established with a commitment to quality care and community integration, RHA offers a wide range of services and operates across multiple states, working closely with local communities, and government agencies to ensure that individuals receive the tailored support they need to live fulfilling and independent lives. 

For more information about our services in Rogersville, please visit rhahealth.org/IDDTN or contact us at 423.500.5803. 

Nurses Week Spotlight: Miranda Desmond and Brittany Calhoun

In Maiden, NC, an RHA Health Services team of dedicated professionals shape the lives of those they serve every day. This Nurses Week, Miranda Desmond, RN, and Brittany Calhoun, LPN, two nurses with unique journeys, share their stories of passion and purpose working at RHA. 

Having been an IDD Nurse at RHA for three years, Miranda remains deeply connected to her work and the individuals she supports. She purposefully journeyed back to serving the IDD population after starting a family and found a role that allows her to provide compassionate care. “Here at RHA, you always have that opportunity to make someone smile, make their day,” Miranda remarks.   

One of Miranda’s most recent, rewarding experiences has been building a top-notch nursing department in Maiden, NC. Her valued team includes Pam, Cassie, Brittany, and Savannah. Miranda says, “I couldn’t ask for a better team. They’re more than just nurses and clerks. They’re amazing people too.” As a unit, they are constantly in collaboration to come up with a plan to help best support the health and safety of all the people supported. 

“When I applied at RHA, I didn’t know what I was getting into. I didn’t technically know what IDD stood for,” admits Brittany. “Now, these individuals are practically family to me, and I absolutely love it.” Beyond addressing their disabilities, Brittany focuses on nurturing the individuals she serves abilities and fostering a sense of self-reliance. 

Joshua Correll, a person served at RHA Health Services in Maiden, NC, shares his gratitude for the nursing team’s support. “I like to see my buddy, Brittany. The nurses are nice. They make sure I’m fed. A long time ago, I hurt my knee. They had to wrap it in an ace bandage,” shares Joshua. 

For Brittany, every day presents an opportunity to infuse love and compassion into the lives of the individuals enrolled in the Maiden Day Program. She reflects, “I’ve personally grown as a nurse. I remember being shy and, in my shell, and this [role] helped me come out of my shell and made me a more confident nurse.”  

Miranda and Brittany’s ongoing journey at RHA Health Services serves as an inspiration for aspiring IDD nurses. Their unwavering dedication to nursing excellence beyond Nurses Week continues to enrich the Maiden community, leaving a lasting impact on those they serve. 

To learn more about nursing opportunities at RHA Health Services, visit rhajobs.com. 

Julie McNeil Nominated for Marion Lindblad-Goldberg Award

Julie McNeil, M.S. has been nominated for the prestigious Marion Lindblad-Goldberg Award, recognizing her exemplary work improving the lives of families through ecosystemic structural family therapy as a Mental Health Professional with RHA Health Services. The award, named in honor of Dr. Marion Lindblad-Goldberg, celebrates professionals in Pennsylvania who embody her visionary approach to family therapy.

A driving force behind Julie’s success is her dedication to her own growth and development. Rachel Fritz, RHA Behavioral Health Team Leader, testified, “Julie is very much able to stay slow in the face of the pressure. She doesn’t allow a family’s intensity to affect her direction and treatment in that moment. She really worked on that.”

In her ecosystem and with the families that she works, Julie remains open to guidance and direction and is willing to enact change in herself for the betterment of the families. “I have worked with Julie for over three years. She always works to improve, and she always is moving forward. She takes criticism with positivity and turns it into something to work on.” said Lisa Freese, RHA Mental Health Worker.

Throughout her career, Julie has demonstrated a commitment to meeting families where they are, understanding their unique challenges, and guiding them towards lasting change. “Since I was a little girl, I’ve always had this passion to help people. Whether it’s a friend, family, or someone off the street, I’ve always wanted to be there to help them. Being honored by my peers is such an honor. I can’t even begin to describe what it means to me,” said Julie McNeil.

Julie’s nomination for the Marion Lindblad-Goldberg Award is a testament to her profound impact. RHA Health Services is proud to have Julie McNeil on our team and support her work in the Mental Health community. 

To learn more about Julie McNeil and ecosystemic structural family therapy, visit pcfttc.com.

From Clinician to NC Behavioral Health Director – Rachel Kilgore Shares What It’s Like to Work for RHA

Rachel Kilgore, Behavioral Health Director for the Concord and Lexington offices in North Carolina, began her career at RHA providing direct support. Nearly nine years and four positions later, Kilgore interviews and hires candidates to fill a wide variety of Behavioral Health positions in her offices. We interviewed her to learn more about her career path and the available jobs at RHA. 

 

Why did you apply to work for RHA? 

I love the values, the mission, the core of this company; I love the fact that we treat the people we serve like they are a part of our RHA family.   

During your time working here, have you experienced any opportunities for career advancement? 

One of the things I value most about RHA is the opportunity for growth. I began my career at RHA in Wilmington as a clinician in a facility-based crisis center. I have worked in four different positions, moving from direct support to leadership. This November, I will celebrate 9 years working with RHA, and I’m really proud of that accomplishment. 

What inspires you about your work in Behavioral Health services? 

I’m inspired by seeing the difference we make in individuals’ lives. If RHA’s services did not exist, many people we support would likely be hospitalized, institutionalized, or struggle in some way to find quality of life. We make a huge impact, and I just love being a part of it. My career is rewarding because I get to see and experience the positive outcomes of the individuals we serve. 

Tell me about a favorite memory you have working for RHA. 

While working in Wilmington, one individual consistently came in and out of the facility-based crisis center. Essentially, inpatient detox had become a recurring part of her addiction process. After several admissions, I sat down with her to have a conversation. I asked her about her goals and what she envisioned for her life. She told me that she didn’t care for herself because she didn’t feel like anyone else cared about her. Through further conversation and discussing some treatment options, she decided to explore our Substance Use Intensive Outpatient Program. She successfully graduated! I remember being at the graduation in tears (because that’s just who I am), and I asked her how she was able to successfully graduate from the program. She said that when I, a person who did not know her, showed her empathy and care, she began to want more for her life and to take better care of herself

How would you describe RHA’s work culture and environment? 

RHA allows us the opportunity to expand our wings, learn, grow, and develop. In each office I’ve worked in, I’ve I felt that the culture is that of a work family, not just a workplace. 

Since you are involved in the interview and hiring process, what qualities do you look for in potential candidates? 

I look for people who are honest, trustworthy, and can work both independently and within groups.
Since we rely on every team member to be committed to providing quality services, I look for people who are passionate about the work that we do at RHA. We work with people, so it’s important that potential candidates have a passion and a drive for Behavioral Health services. 

What kinds of jobs are available in Behavioral Health services? 

We are looking to hire many positions! We have open positions for associate professionals, which are entry-level positions for people with bachelor’s degrees. We also have open positions for qualified professionals, which require either a bachelor’s degree in the human service field and two years of experience or a bachelor’s degree in another field and four years of experience. We are always seeking licensed clinicians. We are also always seeking peer support specialists, who are people with first-hand recovery experience willing to help others in recovery. 

Why should someone consider applying to work in Behavioral Health services with RHA? 

RHA is a growing, passionate company. Because we thrive by retaining our employees, RHA offers opportunities for career advancement and incentives for continuing education. Honestly, I have stayed at RHA for almost nine years because I have fun here! I’m loyal to RHA because I believe in this company. I tell anyone who will listen how much I love my job and the people I work with. 

Are you or someone you know seeking a fulfilling opportunity to provide mental health and substance use services? Visit rhajobs.com to explore RHA’s open jobs and apply today! 

RHA Health Services Announces New President and Chief Operating Officer

 

Jennifer Lineberger Promoted to RHA’s President

Please join us in extending congratulations to Jennifer Lineberger, who has been appointed as the President of RHA effective March 1, 2024. Jennifer started as a direct support staff before embarking on her career at RHA in 1998, progressing through various roles such as Administrator, VP, and RHA’s Chief Operating Officer since 2009.

As Jennifer assumes the role of President, she brings with her a remarkable blend of business acumen, integrity-driven leadership with a touch of wit, and a steadfast commitment to keeping people at the center of all we do. With these guiding principles, Jennifer is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

Jennifer’s leadership has fostered growth for others, and she is committed to nurturing talent and empowering individuals within our organization to reach their full potential.

The organization is honored to have Jennifer leading the way, and we are confident that under her leadership, we will continue to achieve remarkable success and make a positive impact in the industry.

 

RHA Welcomes Robert Ham As Chief Operating Officer- IDD Services

We are delighted to announce the newest addition to our RHA family, Robert Ham. With a rich background in various facets of supporting individuals with IDD, Robert brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for making a difference.

From his humble beginnings as a DSP to his leadership roles overseeing IDD supports in different states, his journey reflects a deep commitment to serving others. Robert’s approach to leadership, rooted in building strong teams, fostering trust, and promoting transparent communication, perfectly aligns with RHA’s core values.

On a personal note, Robert holds a BBA in Accounting and an MBA, and is a retired CPA licensed in TX. Together with his wife Jenny, they enjoy music, travel, and spending time with family and friends. While Jenny is deeply involved in dog agility competitions with their dog Tango, Tango hasn’t quite developed the same passion yet!

Having been acquainted with RHA for many years, Robert has long admired our organization’s dedication to quality and excellence in IDD support services. With Robert joining our team, we are confident that we will continue to uphold these standards and make a positive impact in the lives of the individuals we support.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Robert as he embarks on this new journey with RHA on March 4, 2024.

Kristen Irwin, RN, MSN: In the Spotlight

Here at RHA Health Services, we employ a diverse staff of compassionate, knowledgeable people that change lives across many states. Today, we have the privilege of sitting down with Kristen Irwin, a dedicated nurse with over 8 years of experience working at RHA who just received her master’s degree with a Capstone Certificate of Excellence. With her compassionate demeanor and wealth of knowledge, Kristen offers us a unique insight into the world of nursing – a role that stays at the heart of RHA’s healthcare system.  

Q: How did you decide to enter the field of nursing?  

Kristen Irwin: Before I entered the healthcare space, I was working in retail. I knew I always wanted to go into healthcare because I’ve always had the heart and the passion to help other people and an interest in the medical aspect of life and science.  

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your journey into nursing at RHA?  

Kristen: My first year with RHA, I was working in one of our medical residential homes in Knoxville, Tennessee, where they had nurses on staff 24/7 to support two individuals there. The people supported were where I found my calling. IDD became my passion and my career. Many of the other employees that worked in the home had been there for a while, and that really stood out to me. My supervisor in the beginning was a home manager and she was wonderful and willing to do whatever was needed to support me.  

Q: What is your role at RHA Health Services today?  

Kristen: When I earned my RN degree, I transitioned from working as an LPN at the medical residential home to a role at the Knoxville, Tennessee, clinical team office. It was an exciting transition for me as I had never been in a clinical team role or worked in an office setting before. The people that I supported in the medical residential home were sad to see me leave, but they told me that they were proud of me.   

It was really rewarding to be able to continue to advocate for them. Though I wasn’t providing direct care to them daily, I was able to learn how the clinical team works to help advocate for them from a corporate level. Overall, it was an exceptionally smooth transition and I had ample support.   

Q: What advice would you offer to aspiring nurses or those considering a career in healthcare?  

Kristen: If you are considering becoming a healthcare provider with RHA, know that you can change somebody’s life every day. You will be supported. There’s a wonderful team here and you will feel like you’re a part of a family. The culture speaks for itself, and our people’s lives are better because of RHA.  

Closing Thoughts: Embracing the Heart of Nursing  

Kristen’s insights remind us that nursing is not merely a job, but a deeply meaningful calling rooted in the desire to care for others during their most vulnerable moments. In the face of challenges both old and new, nurses embody resilience, empathy, and dedication. RHA Health Services are proud to employ healthcare providers, like Kristen Irwin. We are grateful for their unwavering dedication to healing, comfort, and care.  

 To learn more about the growth opportunities available at RHA Health Services, visit RHAJobs.com today.

RHA Implements Accessible Technology in Everyday Life

RHA Health Services is committed to learning about, exploring, and cultivating the use of technology in everyday life. RHA’s office in Memphis, TN, recently implemented focus groups and a technology table at their location.

We reached out to TN Senior Vice President Margaret Gartlgruber to learn more:
“RHA Memphis is in the process of becoming accredited with SHIFT, an online education and accreditation platform that is advancing and standardizing Technology First best practices and programming. As a component of our accreditation process, several RHA Enabling Technology Committee members facilitated a focus group comprised of people supported, direct support staff, and clinical staff of the Memphis Unit. The focus group helped us identify key questions regarding Enabling Technology as a component of RHA’s person-centered support model. We had a productive and engaging discussion that will help us shape how we approach the implementation, training, and monitoring of enabling technology in our service delivery system.”

The Technology table, coordinated and implemented by Assistive Technology Professional Bruce Jones and Chief Information Officer Denise Redfearn, is a prototype to be reproduced in other locations. Available technology included Echo Dot, Echo Microwave, Echo Show 8, Echo Wall Clock, Nest, Ring doorbell, lighted water temperature indicators, voice-controlled patio lights, and smart plugs. RHA aims to implement progressive and accessible technology to enhance the lives of the people we serve. As we learn of new technology that furthers our mission, we look forward to offering even more options. The Technology table is a fantastic opportunity to display and demonstrate the benefits of our current technology.

“The table demonstrates our available technology to persons supported, staff, and other stakeholders,” said Gartlgruber. “We want to ensure that everyone becomes familiar with and excited about the possibilities of Enabling Technology!”

Thank you, RHA Memphis, for leading the way and representing RHA’s mission to implement accessible technology in everyday life!

RHA Presents at CIT International Conference in Detroit!

RHA team members presented best practices for crisis intervention training in the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities at the 2023 Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) International Conference in Detroit, Michigan.

The annual CIT International Conference, hosted by CIT International, is intended to promote the effective practice and implementation of the CIT program.

The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program is a community partnership of law enforcement, mental health and addiction professionals, individuals who live with mental illness and/or addiction disorders, their families, and other partners to improve community responses to mental health crises.

“It was a [good] opportunity to learn how different states and first responder services are joining forces with mental health and behavioral health professionals to provide the best support needed when dealing with an individual in a mental health or addiction crisis,” said Sherry Bridges with RHA.

Sherry was one of three team members at RHA who presented at the conference in a panel titled Crisis Intervention Training: Working with the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Community.

“Being my first CIT conference, it was eye opening… there is a lot of work to be done to bring awareness to how to properly meet the needs of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities.  It is very important that we attend conferences like this to bring exposure to the current lack of services and supports, but also to be a part of the solution by providing training and bringing awareness to the issue,” said Sherry.

Tommy Moses Jr., one of the other presenters at the event, echoed Sherry’s thoughts: “It was great to see so many caring people… that already provide support and resources for their community, and were interested in increasing their knowledge and expertise in order to provide a better quality of support.”

RHA Health Services Provides Personalized Care Through Alternative Family Living

RHA is pleased to offer high-quality Alternative Family Living (AFL) services throughout North Carolina.

Alternative Family Living (AFL) is an innovative model of care, providing support and care for disabled adults and children who require help with day-to-day activities and whose needs can be met by an individual or family in a natural home setting. We asked Beverly Williams, an AFL Services Provider, some questions about her experience providing this unique form of care from her home.

Describe your role with RHA and overall industry experience.

Beverly: I am an AFL Services Provider with RHA Health Services in Fayetteville, NC. I provide a loving, safe, secure, and nurturing environment in my home for an individual with intellectual and developmental disabilities. RHA took what I brought to their company and enhanced my skills and knowledge through their continuous education and hands-on classes. In the healthcare field, education never ends! Before working with RHA, I was certified and trained to care for individuals with G-tubes, urinary catheters, colostomies, and tracheotomies, equipping me to care for the individual I support. The nurses at RHA provide continuous training so I can continue to meet the individual’s healthcare needs.

How and why did you become involved as an AFL provider?

Beverly: I saw the importance of quality care when my ailing parents required assistance taking care of themselves. When they passed away, a fire was ignited in me to care for someone else. It turned out to be my true passion.

What does your daily life look like as an AFL provider?

Beverly: We start our day ensuring ADLs (activities of daily living) are taken care of. Then, I incorporate our daily activities. For example, I like working in my flower garden, and the individual I support likes being with me. We also plan daily activities of her choice, such as going to Walmart, going to the park, or watching Lifetime movies together.

Tell us what inspires you about your work with RHA.

Beverly: I am inspired when I see someone thriving and progressing to their fullest potential. No matter how small an accomplishment may seem, it is a very big accomplishment for them.

Tell us about a time you made a difference in someone’s life through your work.

Beverly: When I cared for my parents in my home, I provided not only physical but emotional stability. When that stability is provided for a person, it improves their quality of life and, in most cases, prolongs their life.

What would you say to someone considering becoming an AFL provider?

Beverly: I would tell them they must be genuinely interested in helping others, because being an AFL Services Provider demands dedication and passion. They must possess patience and be committed to the calling. If you have those qualities, being an AFL Services Provider will be very rewarding for you and the person you serve.

Are you interested in becoming an AFL Provider or learning more about these services? Visit our website to learn more: rhahealthservices.org/disability-services/disability-services-in-north-carolina/