Reimert Elected President of the PAPRS Board

Rochelle Reimert, Assistant Operations Director of Psychiatric Rehabilitation (PR) Services at RHA, was recently named President Elect of the Pennsylvania Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (PAPRS) Board.

Rochelle Reimert, Assistant Operations Director of Psychiatric Rehabilitation (PR) Services at RHAA volunteer Board supports the PAPRS mission to promote a system of integrated and holistic services to support mental health recovery so that individuals can achieve success and satisfaction in the living, learning, working and social environments of their choice. This is achieved through education, technical assistance, advocacy and networking – providing access, information, and strategies to implement state-of-the-art PR and recovery-oriented principles and practices throughout the Commonwealth.

Reimert has been involved with PAPRS since 2014, serving on both the Board and the Education and Consultation committee, of which she is currently Co-chair. Reimert says, “Serving on the PAPRS Board is important because it is not only promoting our services, but PR throughout the state. It has allowed me to be part of the education of Pennsylvania’s workforce, support and advocate for funding, take part in regulatory issues, and promote PR principles. I want to help transform people’s lives wherever possible. This allows me to.”

Reimert has worked in behavioral health services since 1995, and as the Assistant Operations Director of PR Services, she manages three RHA PR programs covering Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, and Pike counties in Pennsylvania. She credits her hard-working team for mutually supporting and sustaining their passion for recovery and rehabilitation. Referencing RHA’s “Where Humans Bloom” slogan, Reimert says, “I knew this was a good match for us in PR….this is what we do. We provide hope and encouragement to teach skills and build support. We help individuals transform their dreams into actionable goals.”

Congratulations, Rochelle, on your election and well-deserved success. We are glad you’re a part of the RHA family!

RHA Employee Celebrates 11 Years at the Place #WhereHumansBloom!

Marianne T. is an RHA Business Manager in North Carolina who celebrated her 11-year anniversary with the company in July.

“I started working with the Foothills Service Center area in 1995. In the early 2000s, the company was vested and we wound up going through three new management companies in a matter of months, which caused drastic upset with the community of people we serve… In 2010 or 2011, RHA finally took over and I was committed to making sure that they were successful so that we could provide stability for the people we supported.”

Marianne began as a Business Manager with RHA, helping identify training opportunities, billing efficiencies, and other areas of improvement that could elevate the experience of the people supported at the Foothills Regional Treatment Center. Over the years, she has had the opportunity to work in a variety of roles supporting project management, office transitions, special projects, and more.

“I’ve always said if you need someone to break down a big project, give it to Marianne,” said Tina H. when complimenting Marianne on a recent position change. “You have stepped into your new position with a lot of thought and investigation. I appreciate how you have moved into it with such grace.”

“Marianne is quite the generous lady… She sewed all FRTC staff a personal cloth mask and in addition, delivered to the unit…. Thank you Marianne for caring for the RHA team,” Angela N. said after Marianne hand-sewed masks for staff members at the Foothills Regional Treatment Center during the height of COVID.

After eleven years with the company, Marianne says that there’s never been a dull day– and she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

“Every day is an adventure because every day we are figuring out how we’re going to make the next thing work successfully.” She said, “The thing about RHA is that the mindset is ‘we are going to do whatever it takes to succeed, and we are all going to do our best to make sure it does.’ And even when things don’t succeed, the people in charge come back and say, ‘Let’s look at this and figure out how to do it better next time.’ RHA just does not fail.”

Thank you, Marianne, for your commitment to RHA and the people we support!

Inspired by Marianne’s story? Visit rhajobs.com to learn more about available positions and apply now!

 

RHA Employee in North Carolina Creates Newsletter with the Help of People Supported

Debra W. is a Qualified Professional (QP) at RHA who has been working with people supported to create fun and festive newsletters for more than two years.

Debra began creating a newsletter with the help of people supported at one of RHA’s group homes in North Carolina more than two years ago.

“The newsletter is a big confidence booster. It makes people feel good and supported,” said Debra. “There are people supported who look forward to working on the newsletter. Once they’re done and something they helped create is printed, they get to see it and show it off.”

When Debra first introduced the newsletter she said people weren’t sure how to respond, but that it quickly gained traction. “People weren’t sure what to do with it for a long time, but now it’s gotten to the point where the people supported are asking about it constantly. They want to have their birthday celebrated, or appreciated. I barely have to engage people anymore because people enjoy it so much.”

The newsletter has been running for more than two years, and while a recent change and Debra said she’s excited to continue working on it. “I love to do it; it’s my work hobby! It’s just the most fun, relaxing thing in the world.”

Thank you, Debra, for engaging the people we support and helping them find a way to feel seen, supported, and celebrated!

 

 

PA Assertive Community Treatment Team Wins Award for Outstanding Service

We are excited to announce that one of RHA’s Assertive Community Treatment Teams (ACTT) recently accepted an award from the Carbon-Monroe-Pike Mental Health and Developmental Services Advisory Board recognizing their outstanding contribution to the community!

Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania Assertive Community Treatment Team celebrating their award for outstanding service

RHA’s ACT Teams are groups of mental health professionals that work 24/7/365 to offer a full range of support services to people with serious or persistent mental illness and/or behavioral health needs. The award-winning team, located in Stroudsburg, PA, has been an active part of its community since its inception in 2010. They provide services in Carbon, Monroe, and Pike counties. Ashley Lerner, Operations Director of the ACT Team, says they most often meet with individuals dealing with mental health or housing crises. The team connects them with resources to help them live active, meaningful lives, integrated in their community. ACT Teams travel to people to provide personalized care with no waiting list, no time limit, and with an emphasis on community support. After receiving ACTT services, people supported often report a significant reduction in crisis situations such as homelessness, incarceration or repeat-hospitalizations.

The multi-functional Stroudsburg team consists of a team leader and assistant, mental health professionals, nurses, and housing, vocational, drug/alcohol, and certified peer specialists. Lerner attributes the team’s success to team morale and accountability, saying, “The ACT Team is amazing, and they work so well together, jumping in when needed. In order to be successful, you need a team that believes in the same values, purpose, goals and mission. At a management level encouraging promoting autonomy and celebrating successes is important. This is just one of the many things we do to show our team members that they are valued.”

In celebration of the team’s success, we reached out to members, asking them to share a memorable experience serving in their community. Here is what they shared:

“To me, there is something so inherently different about our team- the cohesiveness, the way we communicate, the way we can finish each other’s sentences. We have seen the people we support at some of the lowest points in their lives, and to be able to work together to support, uplift, and empower them is a gift. To see someone go from being unhoused and unemployed, without family and support, to gaining housing, support, and income that meets their needs is amazing and a true testament to their resilience and strength. For people to let us in and trust us to guide them in personal growth is truly what it’s all about.” – Kimberly Dugan, ACT Team Leader

“A memorable experience: taking a client out into the community for the first time after a yearlong COVID lockdown for a cup of coffee at Dunkin. She was extremely appreciative, almost to the point of tears.” – John Malia, Nurse

“One of the people we supported a few years ago has a great success story. He had been with us for about 3-4 years and was interested in taking classes. He often asked me for advice regarding school and job searches. He took a class in auto mechanics. Initially, he wanted to repair his own vehicle.  As he was going through the class, I watched his self-esteem and confidence grow. Shortly after he finished the class and began his job search, he expressed an interest in graduating from ACT services. Over a few years, I had watched this man go from a person who was unsure of himself to a person with confidence; not just in his abilities to get through that class, but to get through life. He was ready to graduate. Our last visit was more of a formality. I observed no nervousness. He was just matter of fact, and his confident smile said it all: his life was waiting…he was ready.” – Carol Van Norman, Certified Peer Specialist

Congratulations, Stroudsburg ACT Team! We are proud of your success and the impact you are making in your community!

RHA Health Services Celebrates Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) as Part of DSP Week 2022!

Direct Support Professional Week is Sept. 11-17th 2022, and we’re celebrating by highlighting DSPs across all four of our service states.

RHA’s marketing team recently reached out to administrators in North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Pennsylvania with a simple request: help us identify DSPs who are blooming at RHA. With their help, we were able to identify nearly thirty DSPs who are going above and beyond to provide quality care to the people we support.

Below are stories, words of wisdom, advice, and more from some of those DSPs.


North Carolina

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To be recognized as an outstanding DSP is such an honor. However, I am just doing a job that I absolutely love. I have been in the healthcare field for over 26 years, and being a Direct Support Professional is the best job I have ever had.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I enjoy working with the people we support on life skills that help them become more independent. This is not just a job to me, as it is so rewarding and fulfilling.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I have so many memories but the best ones are watching all of the people we support hit their goals and be proud of themselves- as they should be.

What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell anyone that is considering becoming a DSP to do it if they have patience, compassion to assist others, adaptability, reliability, attentiveness, good communication, and a willingness to be a team player. This isn’t just a job; it is a fulfilling, rewarding career with a great company with a mission to provide a safe and healthy environment while creating opportunities for personal outcomes.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To be an outstanding DSP you have to have humility and put the needs of others before yourself.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I enjoy spending time with the people we serve, particularly doing different activities like dancing or having a spa day. Who doesn’t love to be pampered?

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I have so many. I enjoy making their birthdays special; I’ll cook their favorite meal or prepare their favorite snack.

What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
If you have a love for helping people and a heart full of patience and kindness, then this is the perfect role and the perfect company to work for.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To be an outstanding Direct Support Professional, it takes patience and understanding to help the people we serve prosper and become the best they can possibly be. Safety also plays a huge part of preparing them for the outside world.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
The most enjoyable part of being a Direct Support Professional is watching the people that we serve reach all of their goals. The warm smiles that we get when completing their objectives and helping them achieve goals and skills that allow them to become a unique part of our society.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them that it is a joy helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities become integrated into their community.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
I feel that an outstanding DSP is responsible for the health, safety and wellbeing of the people we support. We are also responsible for supporting their identity and and helping them work towards personal outcomes that go along with their personal care plans.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
I love being a DSP because I get to take care of individuals with intellectual disabilities. I get to assist them in achieving their goals and helping them perform tasks in the outside community.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
Some of my favorite memories are watching my clients achieve their goals and reach their full potential. I also enjoy taking them on trips and outings.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
The clients make the job; it is all about the clients. You get to help them become more independent within society, as well as network with new people.


Tennessee

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To me it means putting the individual’s needs before your own and always going above and beyond for their happiness- and letting them experience things in the outside world.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
What I enjoy most are the bonds we have built together and the memories we have made. I also enjoy knowing that I have changed so many lives forever.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory would be when we took the trip to Dollywood! The individuals had never been to Dollywood, so it was a new experience for them and they all looked so happy and excited to try out the roller coasters and water rides. They also loved staying in the big castle and said it felt surreal. They all still talk about that trip to this day, and ask to go back all the time.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them to be caring and understanding of the individuals, and treat them as your own family. Go out of your way to build meaningful bonds with everybody, and always be flexible and adaptable because things happen all the time that we may not expect but you have to roll with it!

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
Being an outstanding DSP entails being a member of a team that functions efficiently and cooperatively. I couldn’t do this job without the amazing support of my coworkers, nurses, and management. It also means being passionate and committed to providing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the tools they need to overcome obstacles in areas and activities that might otherwise keep them from being independent, and enabling them to live the best lives possible.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I take pride in being an advocate for the people I serve by understanding their unique circumstances and identifying the best possible solutions for their goals and needs. I also love taking them on community outings, like trips to the park or local events.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
Taking the people I support to Dollywood is by far one of my favorite memories! Particularly at the water park; we had a ton of fun. I enjoyed seeing the joy on their faces! To this day, they still talk about that trip.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I have worked for RHA for over three years. One of my favorite parts of being a DSP is seeing how much my clients look forward to seeing me, and how if I wasn’t there they made an effort to find out where I was. Learning that I made an impact in their lives is very rewarding. If you are thinking about becoming a DSP, you should know that it can be highly fulfilling role and will provide you with a great opportunity to see the need for, and importance of, DSPs.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
Being an outstanding DSP means being their microphone and not their voice. It means advocating for that person whether it’s in regards to their health, their interests, or their relationships.

What do you enjoy the most about being a DSP?
The impact relationships make in a person’s life is immeasurable. Not only am I talking about relationships with peers, family, friends, or people in their community, but also spiritual connections. When a person supported wants to explore their faith, I enjoy inviting them to church. Watching them develop and define their own relationship with God has brought so much joy to my life.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I have been working in this field for close to 20 years. My favorite memories revolve around when my individuals are at the yearly Special Olympics just seeing them out on the field having a good time smiling and laughing.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Any job in healthcare can teach you how to keep someone safe, but a select few companies like RHA will also support you to help them thrive and live a robust life.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
Being an outstanding DSP means that you are passionate, dedicated, and reliable and you get to help care for others in away that directly impacts their lives while also helping you grow and learn as a person.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy being able to help individuals, especially cooking for them. Being able to cook a meal for them that takes them back to their childhood makes my heart so happy.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
One of my favorite memories would have to be dressing up the girls, doing their hair and makeup and then taking them to our local Christmas parade and the lights at Bristol Motor Speedway.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
Being a DSP is a very rewarding job that requires your full attention and patience. Patience is really key.


Georgia

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It is an honor, and it makes me feel like I am doing an outstanding job. It is a good feeling and I love being a part of the lives of those we support.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
Witnessing the pride the people we support take in themselves when they meet a goal or overcome a situation. To see how happy they are when they accomplish something that means something to them.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory as a DSP is when we celebrated the birthday of a person we support. She was in her fifties and she said it was the best birthday party that she had ever had… It really meant a lot to her. At that age, a small celebration was the best birthday she had ever had. It makes you think about the things we take for granted; just dancing and cupcakes was something big to her.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
It is a very rewarding role. You just need to celebrate the small victories and know that though they may be small to you, they are huge to the people we support. RHA really treats their employees well and acknowledges them through bonuses and compensation for your hard work. Our efforts are recognized, and that is a good feeling.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It makes me feel proud, very proud…  like dreams do come true. It makes me feel like my work is acknowledged and that people do see me, and what I do.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
It is very gratifying to help others. Even though it is challenging, it allows me opportunities to solve problems and do real world thinking. It makes me a better problem solver, and allows me to be creative in my thinking.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory is Super Saturday Halloween; we had a Halloween party for people supported, and seeing them dancing and having a good time was great. I got to meet other people that do the same work as me and see others do really great things. I remember the decorations, the smiles… it was iconic, and I loved that night.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them to make sure you are compassionate and you treat people with integrity. Be devoted, too, because the people you support depend on you.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It means a lot to me to know that I am helping people that need help, and it means a lot that someone has noticed my work. That in itself means a lot.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy the relationships that I build with the people I support and knowing that I am helping them and that  I am doing something good by helping them.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
When I was working at one of our group homes, we had Family and Friends Day, and seeing all the people dancing and enjoying their family members was great. We had such good community involvement, and all of the people supported were having a good time.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell them that it is a good job and gives you a chance to help people that really need help. It is just a good way to give back and feel good about what you do every day. I really like RHA, they are a good company.


Pennsylvania

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
I take a lot of pride in making sure my members get all the care they deserve and need. It’s an honor to get noticed, and to be chosen for this. It reflects on what I do for the people we support & I will continue strive for excellence.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy putting smiles on the faces of the people we support. I enjoy making priceless, countless memories with them.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
There are way too many to choose from…. going camping with them, going to the YMCA, playing video games with them, going outside to shoot hoops together and such. If I had to choose just one, I would probably say going to a live WWE/WWF wrestling show. The people I support have dreamt for so long of attending a live wrestling show & just to be able to get in there to watch the show, and then sit really close to the wrestling ring…. Seeing all of the people I support in awe, amazed, and with so many smiles and laughter… It makes all of the team effort worth it. It is something I will never forget and I’m pretty sure the people supported will remember that forever, especially given how often they still talk about it.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would tell anyone that being a DSP is like being at home. I promise they will create many new, unforgettable memories. They will be able to go on cool trips, and new activities with the people they support. Plus, it’s so nice to have full access to other members of the Deaf community by working here, and to make a good living from it. Every day does not feel like “work” because we are too busy having fun and making memories and a difference in the lives of the people we support, and that makes this a place worthy of working for.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
It means that you’re willing to go the extra mile.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
Making the people we support happy.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
Throwing a surprise birthday party for one of the people we support.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
You have to have patience! Patience and a kind heart.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
For me, being an outstanding DSP means you always keep your focus on the best interests of the individuals we serve.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
Knowing that I impact the people we support in a meaningful way by supporting their interests along with their health and medical needs.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
I have so many good memories, and it’s the bond I created with individuals and the trust they give me that make me the happiest. It’s the unexpected, positive moments that I will always cherish. The one thing I will never forget is the smiles and pure joy on their faces.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
If they take value in enriching the lives of people who need support in many areas, this may be the job for them.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
To me, it means that I am very hardworking, and a good role model to people supported. It means having a good, strong relationship with members in order to meet the needs of their communication level. At my home, all of the people we support are Deaf and have strong fluent American Sign Language, and I am Deaf too. I enjoy being involved in their journey, and giving advice when they feel they need an advocate. I always give my full support and make them feel more comfortable. I always show up for work on time, and I’m willing to pick up extra shift as needed. I am a strong supporter for the people we serve, and I practice good teamwork with other staff members. I’ve been working here nearly nine years and the people here are like my family.

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I really enjoy taking people supported out into the community and seeing their faces happy and having fun. I enjoy giving advice to members, and watching them learn from me.  I also enjoy cheering up the people we support, and making them laugh.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My favorite memory is going out in the community with people supported, especially to Kennywood Amusement Park. I enjoy going on the rides with them; it makes them happy.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I would say that being a DSP builds up your skills, and you learn a lot when working with people supported. Working with the people we support also helps build your self esteem.

 

What does it mean to you to be an outstanding DSP?
The DSP title was challenging to me at first because of my past experience with different high-level counseling roles, but I have learned so much since becoming a DSP. 

What do you enjoy most about being a DSP?
I enjoy counseling the people we support and guiding them towards the best opportunities for their future. Helping them live better lives has really opened my eyes.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a DSP?
My best moments have been empowering the people I support, and helping them to develop their abilities and their independent life skills.

What would you say to someone who was considering becoming a DSP with RHA?
I will encourage people with the right skills to step into a DSP role, and to appreciate the opportunities and experiences and it will bring to their team.


Thank you to the DSPs who participated in this feature, as well as all of the incredible DSPs working each day to help the people we support live life to its fullest potential! 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 be a good fit in a Direct Support role, please visit rhajobs.com to view available positions near you.

RHA is Excited to Announce Tormeica Allison as the Executive Director of Care Management

Since she first joined RHA as a nurse in 2004, Tormeica Allison, MSN, RN, NE-BC has embodied why RHA Health Services is a place Where Humans Bloom. Since then, she has grown her career, her education, her family, and her extensive skillsets – and we’re thrilled to welcome her back into a new role.   

With the goal of adding Care Management to the list of services we provide, RHA knew we needed someone with an understanding of the company, the right experience and education, and the leadership skills to spearhead this new endeavor.  

RHA’s CEO Jeanne Duncan said, “We knew Tormeica would be a great fit for this role, and we’re excited to announce she’s returning to RHA as the Executive Director of Care Management. Her specific experience and expertise will ultimately help RHA be able to provide even more personalized care to the people we serve, and we’re grateful for her continued leadership.” 

Allison’s background in nursing coupled with her leadership experience will be instrumental in making RHA’s care management model successful.    

“Care management and care coordination are essentially in the DNA of a nurse and a main component of our training…caring for the whole person, which is what the Tailored Care Management model by the State of NC is seeking to achieve for the behavioral health and I/DD population through managed care,” said Allison.  

RHA’s Care Management program is expected to launch in December of 2022, and we’re excited to expand the capacity for ways RHA can provide care and services to the people we support. 

Behavioral Health Clinical Director Sharlena Thomas said, “Care Management involves ‘whole person care’ by attending to any need a person may have through assessment, planning, coordination, arranging and linking to appointments, monitoring attendance and efficacy, and communicating to multiple providers involved through a person’s care. We are excited about this opportunity to improve health outcomes through care management services.”  

Throughout Allison’s time at RHA, she’s appreciated the flexibility with her work/life balance, close relationships with her coworkers, and opportunities for professional development.  

Allison said, “When I came back [to RHA], it still felt like home. A lot had changed, but the culture hadn’t changed – and I was grateful for that.”  

RHA is currently recruiting a dynamic team of Care Management Supervisors across NC. To learn more about these and other opportunities, please click here.

Seeking Behavioral Health Clinicians to Join RHA’s Team — Where Humans Bloom!

People are at the center of everything we do at RHA — including the people we support, their families and communities, and our valued team members. It is because of our dedicated team of professionals that RHA continues to be a place #WhereHumansBloom!

This video highlights the incredible work that our Behavioral Health Clinicians do every day. If you or someone you know is interested in joining our team, please visit our Careers page to see our current openings and apply now to join us in making a difference in the lives of others.

RHA Helps Person Supported Achieve His Goal of Owning Chickens

Alan, a person supported by RHA in Tennessee, recently achieved a longtime goal of his by becoming a caretaker to his very own flock of chickens.

At RHA, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work closely with the people they support to identify and achieve individual goals. While goals look different for every individual, one person supported by RHA in Tennessee named Alan had a particularly unique goal.

“When I first met Alan, he told me that he wanted some chickens to raise,” said Brandon C., a Direct Support Professional who works with Alan. “The first home he moved into, the landlord didn’t allow them– but I promised him that he would have them one day!”

Brandon and one of his Direct Support staff members, Ramona, smile while Brandon holds one of his chickens.

Alan recently moved to a new location where he found out he was allowed to keep chickens.

“His dream of owning his own chickens came true! He purchased a good size coop to keep them in and he tends to them daily,” said Brandon.

By all reports, Alan has been an excellent caretaker to his chickens, and has even been enjoying collecting eggs to use weekly.

If you’re interested in helping people like Alan achieve their goals, then join the team at RHA as a Direct Support Professional! Visit us at rhajobs.com to view available positions near you, or learn more about the role.

 

RHA Team Members Named 2021 Most Valuable Clinicians

RHA’s Buncombe County CST Team comprised of Carolyn S., Cecilia H. & Aaron G. were recently awarded the Most Valuable Clinicians of 2021 award by the North Carolina IPS Coalition. 

The CST Team embodies the tenant of integrated behavioral health services and employment. They assist with concrete needs (e.g., identification and exploring job interests) and provide critical support and communication around symptom management and wellness tools. They are a great team to partner with!”

Congratulations to Aaron, Cecilia, and Carolyn for their outstanding work. We are grateful to have you on our team!​

The award winners are pictured left to right.
From left to right: Aaron, Cecilia, Carolyn.

RHA Celebrates Administrative Professionals Day by Highlighting an Administrative Supervisor who is Blooming in NC!

RHA would like to recognize Meghan W., an administrative professional in NC who recently won an award for her outstanding work assisting with the Western NC IPS-Supported Employment (IPS-SE) program.

Meghan W., an Administrative Supervisor who supports the IPS-SE team with RHA in Western NC was nominated by one of her teammates for a Program Assistant of the Year award. Meghan was selected to receive the award at the Growing Together, Pushing Forward: A Joint Conference of ACT & IPS Coalition Members event on March 3, 2022.

Meghan’s colleagues describe her as the backbone of IPS-SE in Western North Carolina. Team members attribute their success as a team to Meghan’s knowledge of resources and organizational strengths and shared that they felt they would face additional challenges and barriers without Meghan on board.

One of Meghan’s co-workers, Agape P., said, “Meghan is an excellent team member and leader at RHA.  She has an amazing wealth of knowledge, insight, and wisdom in all that she does.  She is the go-to person when others need to figure out how to do something, who to talk to, or just where to start. When faced with a challenging situation, Meghan will lean into the messy details, sort them out, make a chart, find ways to address the issue, and create a plan to address them at a dizzying and impressive pace. Meghan’s knowledge and creativity work together in a way that seems magical at times!  She is also so capable in how she interacts with others in a manner that speaks to a level of care and attention to detail that is admirable. No matter what might happen at RHA on a given day, Meghan is able to help her team get through the day; she’s supportive and understanding of her colleagues, and overall, an excellent advocate for anyone who has the pleasure of working with her.”

RHA is grateful to have someone like Meghan on our team – congratulations, Meghan, and thank you for all your hard work!