Our DSP for this week is Grace, and she works as a float, which means she helps at a few of our houses. She was first introduced to Living Well by her sister, Happy, who works at our Carmen Lane home. She and her sister live up to their names and truly do bring grace and happiness to work with them every day!
Carrie Jensen, Program Manager, says, “Grace is a ray of sunshine! Every time I see her, she’s smiling and happy. Grace really seems to care about the people she supports, and it shows in how hard she works. Grace brings such positive energy and enhances the lives of the folks in our homes. And we are so grateful to have her on our teams. Thank you, Grace, for all that you do every day. You are simply the best!”
Alexis Jackson, Staffing Manager, concurs and says, “Grace is truly a ball of sunshine that spreads positivity and joy at every home that she works at. She cares a lot about the people served and is such a hard worker. Thank you so much for all that you do, I am so lucky to work with you!”
Grace, we appreciate your kindness and all that you do for Living Well. If two managers use sunshine to describe you, you must be doing something right. Thank you for making a career out of caring for others, and for doing it so joyfully.
ABOUT GRACE
Number of years/months with Living Well: 6 months
Hobbies/Interests: I like a lot of things, but walking makes me happy. I love music, spending time with my kids, dancing with them, playing games, and being outside when the weather is nice. I also love smiling and being happy.
Education: I have a high school diploma from my home country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I also completed CNA training and am planning to take the certification exam.
Job Experience/History: Before coming to the United States in 2022, I worked in caregiving in my home country. I also owned and operated a salon and worked as a hairstylist. Taking care of people has always been a big part of my life, whether helping them feel good or look good.
Favorite part of the job: My favorite part is being with the people we support. I love spending time with them, playing with them, talking with them, joking with them, and making them smile.
Favorite or craziest work story: One of my favorite memories was at a picnic with the people we support. I especially think of Diana. She does not smile a lot, so whenever I see her smile, it makes me feel very good. It makes me feel like I did something positive.
What is your motivation for coming to work: I always come to work knowing everything is going to be okay. I am not someone who gets upset quickly. I like to laugh, and I believe I can handle any situation while keeping a positive attitude. What motivates me most is the people we support. I want them to feel cared for, loved, and like they have family around them.
What made you apply: My sister, Happy, works at Living Well and told me good things about it. She encouraged me to apply.
What makes you stay: The people we support. They need to know they are cared for and not alone. When I see them happy and feeling loved, it makes me feel good and encourages me to keep doing this work.
What would you tell people interested in joining the team: I would tell them to come work at Living Well because it is a good place with caring staff, supportive managers, and people who know what they are doing. It is a great place to provide care and make a difference.
When not at work what do you like to do for fun: I enjoy spending time with my family, going out to dinner, cooking special African dishes, bowling, playing volleyball, watching movies, and spending time with my kids. I especially enjoy cooking special meals for my family.
Want to nominate a DSP? Please email jessica.maurer@livingwell.org to nominate a Living Well DSP. Special thanks to Miles and Cheri Cohen for their support of DSP of Week. Want to join them in underwriting our DSP Shoutout Program? Please contact Jamee.Yung@livingwell.org for sponsorship opportunities.