Our DSP for this week is Louise, and she works at our Brunswick home in Crystal. She started at Living Well back in July and in a few short months has become an invaluable part of the team. Louise was referred to by a friend of the family, and we are so grateful she found us.
Bess Bryan, Program Manager, says, “In a short amount of time, Louise has made a big impact at Brunswick Ave. She came in eager and full of compassion. Her willingness to go the extra mile and not only lovingly support the individuals she serves, but team members alike, has been a warm blessing. I most enjoy watching Louise take such personal care of Karla’s wants and needs, creating spa days for her, delicately painting her nails so beautifully, and taking her out in the community. Louise has an undeniable drive to serve others. We are so fortunate she is a part of our team!”
Judy Marder has been a dedicated champion for people with disabilities and their families for more than four decades. Her daughter, Karla, moved into Living Well in 1981, when the organization was still known as Dakota’s Children. Karla most recently lived at our Casey Court home before moving to Brunswick this past March. Throughout her family’s journey with Living Well, Judy has served on the Board of Directors in various capacities, helping shape the organization and advance its mission.
Judy says, “Louise spends all her days with Karla, and she has truly been a godsend as far as we are concerned. Having that one-on-one relationship has made such a difference for Karla. Louise takes great care to make sure Karla is dressed beautifully, well-groomed, and treated with dignity every day. She goes out of her way to introduce Karla to new foods while also preparing meals she knows Karla enjoys. It is very clear to us that Louise genuinely loves Karla and always has her best interests at heart. She is constantly asking questions to learn more about what Karla likes and dislikes, what makes her happy, and what activities she enjoys. We are just so grateful that Louise has come into Karla’s life.”
Louise, we cannot thank you enough for your gentle heart and the way you care for others. We appreciate you. Thank you for making a career out of caring.
ABOUT LOUISE
Number of years/months with Living Well: 4 months
Hobbies/Interests: I like taking care of my kids, cooking, cleaning, organizing, and keeping things nice. I also enjoy decorating and making spaces look good.
Education: I have a GED from Ghana and earned my CNA in North Dakota. I also studied interior decoration.
Job Experience/History: I’ve always worked in healthcare because I love taking care of people. I’ve worked with older adults and people with disabilities throughout my career.
Favorite part of the job: I like putting smiles on the faces of the people I support, and making sure they are comfortable. I enjoy helping them get dressed, look nice, and feel good. I also love cooking for them.
Favorite or craziest work story: Nick recently moved in and he loves music and dancing. Sometimes I’ll sing and dance with him in the morning and it makes him laugh and smile for the rest of the day.
What is your motivation for coming to work: I’ve always loved helping people. Even when I was younger in Ghana, I helped my grandmother, older adults, and children. I like being part of a team and helping people do things they can’t do on their own.
What made you apply: When I moved to Minnesota, a family friend told me about Living Well and suggested I apply because of my healthcare background.
What makes you stay: I love the people who call Brunswick home, especially Karla. I enjoy being part of her life and helping care for her. I also have great coworkers, supervisors, and managers who make Living Well a wonderful place to work. Also, my manager Bess is great.
What would you tell people interested in joining the team: Living Well is a great place to work. The people are wonderful, the management is supportive, and coworkers are always willing to help. If you don’t know something, people are happy to teach you and help you learn.
When not at work what do you like to do for fun: I like shopping, watching movies, spending time with my children, traveling, and decorating. I enjoy fixing things up and making my home look nice.
Do you volunteer in your community or school: I help at my church by cleaning, cooking, and helping wherever I’m needed. I also used to sing in the praise and worship team.
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.