2009 Stories in the News
Appreciation and relaxation
By Jason Case
(Valdosta, GA) Everyone deserves a little appreciation now and then.
During Direct Support Professional (DSP) week in September, Normal Life-Valdosta arranged festivities to thank their DSP’s for doing work that many would not do. DSP’s provide care and services for people with disabilities, often serving as advocates as well.
“We did everything we could to show our appreciation for our staff,” Shelia Thompson, human resources
During Direct Support Professional (DSP) week in September, Normal Life-Valdosta arranged festivities to thank their DSP’s for doing work that many would not do. DSP’s provide care and services for people with disabilities, often serving as advocates as well.
“We did everything we could to show our appreciation for our staff,” Shelia Thompson, human resources
Chuck Bent, ResCare director of internal audits and operations, left, danced with Shelia Thompson, human resources manager of Normal Life-Valdosta, during the festivities for Direct Support Professional (DSP) appreciation week.
manager at Normal Life-Valdosta, said. “I started out as a DSP, so I know the importance of showing them the appreciation they deserve.”
Normal Life-Valdosta thought of some creative ideas for recognizing staff.
Normal Life Senior Executive Director Marietta White came up with a unique idea to show gratitude for their efforts and to pamper them a little bit, too.
“Marietta came up with the ‘Relax, Relate and Release’ concept,” Ms. Thompson said. “It made the employees feel valuable and appreciated.”
During the “Relax, Relate and Release” portion of the week, DSP’s received hand massages and manicures from management personnel. Also, the staff was able to sit in a chair massager while waiting for their hand massage.
Having the management personnel conduct these activities was well received by the DSP’s.
“It was nice for our staff to see management in every day clothes, pampering them,” Ms. Thompson said. “It allowed the staff to see their not-so-serious side.”
While visiting the facility during an audit, Chuck Bent, director of internal audits and operations for the ResCare Resource Center, was able to take part in some of the festivities.
“We just want to show these employees that they are very valuable to us,” Mr. Bent said. “It’s kind of our way to thank the staff.”
The week came to a close with a barbecue luncheon that included a variety of side dishes. Following the luncheon, the members of management were required to dance for the staff by forming a “soul train line.”
“I haven’t danced in forever, but in this kind of atmosphere I didn’t mind,” Mr. Bent said. “It was a lot of fun and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.”
Ms. Thompson agreed that the soul train line was a hit with staff.
“It was kind of the grand finale and it turned out to be a fun way to end the week,” she said.