Tag: Where Humans Bloom

Celebrating RHA’s Longest Tenured Nurse for National Nurses Week

RHA’s longest tenured nurse, Marietta “Cookie” Lofton, is celebrating 43 years at the place Where Humans Bloom! This National Nurses Week, RHA expresses our profound gratitude for Cookie and all our nurses dedicated to providing excellent care for the people we serve. We asked Cookie a few questions to get to know her better. 

Describe your role with RHA and overall industry experience.

Cookie: I began my career with RHA in 1980 as a Direct Care staff member on 3rd shift. Over the years, I have been fortunate to fulfill various roles with the Bear Creek facility as an LPN and RN. Currently, I am the RN Team Leader on Blue Bayou. I feel that my integrity, trust, and loyalty to others within the Bear Creek organization has been influential in developing a better medical team and therapeutic relationships with the individuals and families we serve. 

Why nursing? Tell us what inspires you about your work with RHA. 

Cookie: I had never considered a career in nursing, but I feel God always puts the right people in my path to steer me in the right direction. One day while assisting a nurse, she told me that I should become a nurse because of my enjoyment in helping others. So, I began my journey to become the nurse that I am today! I became an LPN in 1991, a RN in 1999, and earned my BSN in 2008.  

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

Cookie: Every day that I have a chance to advocate, promote positive choices, and encourage independence, I feel that I have made a difference in an individual’s life. Throughout my tenure at Bear Creek, I have had opportunities to empower and enrich the lives of individuals who inspire me every day; their unconditional love still melts my heart and makes me smile! 

Outside of RHA, what are your passions and hobbies? 

Cookie: My faith in God and family are two of my strongest passions. I love being grandma to my granddaughter and grand dog. My hobbies include curling up with a good book, shopping for a great sale, or watching Lifetime and Hallmark movies. 

If you’re looking for a rewarding career making a difference in the lives of others, visit rhajobs.com and join our team of dedicated professionals at RHA – Where Humans Bloom! 

 

RHA Health Services Appreciates Our Passionate Teachers

Did you know that RHA Health Services employs teachers at many of our service locations? This Teacher Appreciation Week, we want to express our deepest gratitude for their selfless dedication to the people we serve. To celebrate, we reached out to two teachers to learn more about their stories. Bonnie Robbins and Quin Crandle work at our Tar River location, a residential facility for medically complex children in Greenville, NC. Keep reading to learn more about them!

Describe your role with RHA and overall industry experience. 

Bonnie: My passion has always been to work with special needs students, and I am now in my 39th year as a Special Education Teacher. I worked for the state for 31.5 years and served in many positions. I have been a department chair, exceptional children’s contact person, testing coordinator, and behavior specialist. I tried retirement and it just wasn’t for me! 

Quin: I have been with RHA Health Services for over 20 years. Through the years, I have experienced “ups” and “downs” while teaching. The ups outweigh the downs, thanks to the children that have been admitted into this facility.  

Why teaching? Tell us what inspires you about your work with RHA.

Bonnie: I knew at an early age that I wanted to teach students with special needs. I began volunteering with Special Olympics and I knew that this is where I was destined to be. The children at RHA inspire me every day. They greet me daily with smiles on their faces and no matter how bad I feel, they can turn it around with their laughter. I can come in to teach and feel better because my struggles cannot compare to what some of these children go through. If they can smile and be happy, then so can I. 

Quin: Teaching is a great profession and experiencing these children achieving different milestones makes my role so rewarding. What inspires me the most is seeing these children accomplish things they were told they would never be able to do. RHA provides me with the tools to build upon my knowledge as a teacher and to achieve the best outcomes in my role. 

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

Bonnie: I look at the students and say, “This is what we are going to do today, and you can do it.” My saying is, “You can do ANYTHING!” I have had the privilege of helping many students become productive citizens with employment and the ability to care for themselves. 

Quin: I am a positive influence that helps my coworkers experience the true purpose of their work through correct training. When they allow the smiles on these children’s faces add meaning to their days, it increases their motivation to come to work and see the children happy! 

Outside of RHA, what are your passions and hobbies? 

Bonnie: I love to travel, even if it is just a day trip. I have traveled to many places, and I will continue to travel as much as possible. I especially enjoy reading and being by the water, lake, beach, pool, etc. 

Quin: Outside of work, I am a caretaker for my family members. I am also a crafter and use my creative skills to supply people in the community with custom-made items. I enjoy seeing the reactions on their faces when they receive their products. I have a strong passion for working with people with special needs.  

If you’re looking for a rewarding career making a difference in the lives of others, visit rhajobs.com and join our team of dedicated professionals at RHA – Where Humans Bloom! 

 

Nurses Week 2023: A message from RHA’s Chief Nursing Officer Robin Correll

Happy Nurses Week! We’re excited to recognize and celebrate RHA’s extraordinary team of nurses across many specialties; including caring for newborns with medical complexities, and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or behavioral health needs. 

We truly have the best nurses. They demonstrate exceptional compassion and dedication, going above and beyond to ensure we’re providing high-quality care for the people we serve. 

Our nurses make a world of difference in the lives of people we serve, and we are grateful for their tireless effort. Please join us in thanking our nurses for their hard work and unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of others! 

– Robin Correll, Chief Nursing Officer  

Celebrating Western North Carolina’s Employees of the Year

RHA is proud to celebrate these outstanding employees named 2022 Employees of the Year!

Each month, Behavioral Health services directors in Western North Carolina name an Employee of the Month from which they annually select an Employee of the Year. Congratulations to the following employees who have worked hard for this award!

Brooklyn S. is an Employment Specialist with RHA’s Individual Placement Support Team. She is currently working towards a Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Gardner-Webb University. Brooklyn says, “I have always had a passion for helping those with mental health and substance use issues. My ultimate desired outcome is to obtain my PhD in psychology, so that I can continue to help the community that I serve and to have a greater impact in the lives of others.”

Brooklyn’s coworkers say: “Thank you, Brooklyn, for the outstanding work you do! Brooklyn is consistent with serving members of IPS get and maintain employment, completing her documentation, and building bridges and partnerships with community stakeholders.”

 

RHA Team Leader Shemeca R.Shemeca R. is a Team Leader with RHA’s Comprehensive Case Management (CCM) Program. She started her career as a Qualified Professional with RHA’s Asheville-based Community Support Team, and after progressing to a Team Leader role, has grown the CCM program into the success it is today. 

Shemeca’s coworkers say: “Shemeca leads by example, supporting not only her staff in being successful but also those individuals supported by CCM.”   

“Shemeca expects from others only what she will do herself. She is all in when it comes to helping and doing the ‘dirty work’ when necessary.”

RHA Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Catherine L.Catherine L. is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. She is currently working to obtain a Mental Health license.                                        

Catherine’s coworkers say: “Catherine is extremely dedicated to her job. When I think about what it takes to be a great mental health and substance use therapist, I think about Cat. It’s amazing how well she balances the job, especially since she has been in the field for so many years.”                                

“Cat contributes to our team anywhere she sees a need. She has provided transportation to many of the individuals she serves just to help them get to groups to continue in their recovery journeys.”

Adaptive Technology Professional Bruce J.Bruce J. is the Adaptive Technology Professional in RHA’s Information Technology department.          

Bruce’s coworkers say: “We are so appreciative of Bruce. He is a calm presence when we are experiencing IT panic. Not only is he incredibly competent in his job, he shows such patience with those of us who are less technically inclined.”                                                    

“Bruce puts aside his own agenda on a busy day to help staff members who are struggling with IT issues. He responds quickly to IT struggles and maintains respect and professionalism as we try to navigate new computer systems.”

Employee Spotlight: Celebrating RHA Team Leads at the Place Where Humans Bloom!

Carlina S. and Nicole K. are Team Leads in North Carolina who recently celebrated five years with RHA.

Carlina is a Peer Support & Bridge Home Team Lead for RHA along the coast of North Carolina. Carlina began her journey at RHA as a Qualified Professional on the Transitional Management Services team in New Bern, a role she filled for a little over three years before transitioning to her current role as Team Lead over the Peer Support Team almost two years ago. In her current role, Carlina has been an instrumental part in establishing two new Trillium Bridge Recovery Homes in Greenville, North Carolina. Under Carlina’s leadership, the programs have seen such impressive success and growth in the Community Peer Support team’s caseload that they were able to split the team into two community Peer Support teams – one serving Greenville and New Bern, and the other serving Craven, Carteret, Edenton, and Elizabeth City.

Carlina is admired by her coworkers and has been referred to by peers as a great example of a strategic leader.

Nicole K. is a Transitional Management Services (TMS) Team Lead, also located along the east coast of North Carolina. Since Nicole came on board five years ago, she has been instrumental in training leaders within the company — Carlina being one of them.

Nicole maintains a full caseload and is often the first point of contact by Trillium Health Resources when they have a new member who needs to be transitioned to a TMS team in the New Bern area. Nicole is reported as  willing to drop everything to see a new individual and get them started with services. Coworkers described Nicole as a leader that is invested in the wellbeing of people, and someone who would willingly sacrifice anything to help a person supported.

We are so grateful to have Nicole and Carlina at RHA, and for the work that they are doing to help people we support live their best lives.

Interested in joining our team? Visit rhajobs.com to view available positions near you.

We’re Hiring! – Talent Acquisition Lead Shares About RHA’s Open Positions

As we expand and evolve, RHA is always seeking to fill open positions. From business to operations to healthcare, we offer a variety of opportunities for all experience levels. 

RHA's Talent Acquisition Lead Amie Sevier

We reached out to Talent Acquisition Lead Amie Sevier to share more about her work, RHA, and what potential applicants should know. 

Q: Can you describe your role with RHA and overall industry experience?   

A: As the Talent Acquisition Lead, my role is to lead the Talent Acquisition/Recruitment team to attract and connect talent at RHA. We work with the Operations team to connect candidates with the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve across Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. I started in December 2020 as the first centralized Recruiter at RHA, and our team now has more than five members. I have 11 years of Recruitment experience in different industries, and I love having the opportunity to work with and hire passionate professionals! I love what I do because I am constantly learning from others, and I get to help develop and build the teams that stand behind our company.  

Q: What inspires you about your work with RHA? 

A: I am inspired by all we do for the community and the passion of our staff who work to provide opportunities for people to live more independent lives. I learn every day from the people at RHA, working in the community to make a difference by providing needed services I never knew existed. In Recruitment, we are inspired to keep doing what we do each day so RHA and all its great programs can keep providing for the communities we serve. 

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

A: RHA as a company is all about passion for the people we serve, and this shines through our staff. The Operations staff does everything they can to serve the unique needs of intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) services, mental health support services, and substance use services. Starting my job in 2020, I witnessed this passion when everyone came together to keep our services running as optimally as possible. 

Q: What kind of jobs are available with RHA? 

A: We have a little bit of everything at RHA, literally from hairdressers to psychiatrists! Most of our workforce are Direct Support Professionals, entry-level positions who provide care for the people we serve. These positions are 24/7, with a variety of schedules available, making them a great fit for someone in school or starting their career. We also have available positions in a variety of programs and services within the IDD and Behavioral Health space. My team and I like to say, if you are interested in working in one of the states we serve, we can find a job that suits your current needs and allows you to grow or “bloom” professionally at RHA. 

Q: What qualities and skills does RHA look for in potential candidates? 

A: We look for passion to support the people we serve, responsibility, innovation, a strong work ethic, and a teamwork mindset. 

Q: Why should someone apply to work with RHA? 

A: To state our tagline: At RHA, Where Humans Bloom, we give our staff the chance to grow and learn. If you want to make a difference in the lives of people living with intellectual/developmental disabilities or behavioral/mental health needs, there is a place for you at RHA. Explore the variety of services we provide to find the right fit for you and submit an application. We want to hear from you! 

Visit rhajobs.com or email careers@rhanet.org to learn more about available positions and apply now! 

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!

 

 

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.