Our DSP Shoutout for this week is Jamar. Clocking in at almost three years on the job, he has found his niche and is an incredible employee. Jamar is kind, caring, and always willing to help people live their best lives. Initially hired to do overnights, often helps during the day as well. When it comes to outings, he seems to naturally understand how important being out in community is for the people he supports. From the very beginning it was obvious that he got it, that he knew the work was important.
Program Manager, Sam Subah, says, “Jamar is very humble and identifies with everyone very well. He started at Victoria Road, and he just took to the work immediately. He is really great at the job.” Sam remembers that he could immediately tell Jamar engages with the people in a comfortable way. And Sam loves that Jamar is always willing to come in during the day to help out with activities, and to provide opportunities for meaningful connections. Sam adds, “He is very adaptable and an integral part of the team. Jamar is the ultimate team player—he has so much potential!” Sam is super excited for Jamar and believes he deserves recognition for his dedication.
Jamar has so many wonderful attributes, and the way that he connects with the individuals at Living Well is to be applauded. Whether it be the way he naturally supports others with a smile, gives a friendly laugh, his gentleness, or his willingness to work hard and get things done—he makes the job look far easier than it is. Jamar’s ability to be of service to others at home and out in the community is great.
Direct Support Professionals like Jamar truly are what make Living Well special, without them we cannot provide the exceptional services we take pride in. Congrats, Jamar—we appreciate your work and your willingness to do all that is necessary to make a positive impact on the lives of the people you serve.
ABOUT JAMAR
Number of years/months with Living Well: 2 years, 11 months
Hobbies/Interests: I love to be on the lake and fishing.
Job Experience/History: Some college, small business management. I have a lot of job experience. I was a Janitor Supervisor at Southdale mall and Maintenance at YWCA of St. Paul as well as a PCA.
Favorite part of the job: My favorite part of this job are the smiles that I receive by the people served.
Favorite work story: Crazy story, every time I took a person served to a sporting event this winter I would end up buying a $100 hoodie because I forgot to bring one.
What is your motivation for coming to work: People served are my reasons why, the reason I come back.
What made you apply: I applied for this job by accident, as I was filling out lots of applications.
What made you stay: The people served are what make me stay.
What would you tell people interested in joining the team: That working here would be the best move they will ever make, I wouldn’t even classify this as work.
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 Devan Heinsen at devan.heinsen@livingwell.org for sponsorship opportunities.