Our DSP for this week is Jay. He works in our Thompson home in West St. Paul and has been with Living Well over two years. He started as a youth DSP and now works full time at Thompson while also picking up hours at 32nd and Westchester. He has learned a lot on the job, and at the top of the list is that he enjoys caring for others.
Cynthia Kilmer, Program Manager, says, “Jay is one of those guys that I like to call hidden gems. I am so glad he found us because our people love him and I get to see him grow into an even more wonderful human. He is amazing, has a heart of gold and works really really hard. He doesn’t shy away from difficult tasks or working with more challenging behaviors and does it all with such grace and calm.”
Jay, your kind heart precedes you and we sincerely appreciate your dedication to helping people live well. Thank you for all you do for the people at our homes and in your care.
ABOUT JAY
Number of years/months with Living Well: 2 years 3 months
Hobbies/Interests: I go to the gym in my apartment and you can find me down there when I am stressed.
Education: I graduated from Orono High School. Last year I attended Augsburg University, and now I am at Normandale Community College. I originally planned to study engineering and have now switched to nursing. I think this job really helped me realize where I belong.
Job Experience/History: I was working at McDonalds prior to starting here at Living Well.
Favorite part of the job: My favorite part is just being here for people. I like seeing the smiles on their faces when I do certain things. Outings as a group are great, but just being there is what makes it special.
Favorite or craziest work story: I have learned a lot through the job, especially patience with certain individuals. I also grew to notice what people like and make sure to do more of those things. For example, one of the guys I support will crack up when you make a fart noise. So, we make fart noises and laugh a lot!! I enjoy seeing him laugh and we have fun together.
What is your motivation for coming to work: I am motivated to just continue to spend time and build relationships with the people here. I enjoy cooking so it brings me peace when they eat the food I make. I feel like I get to make them that meal, I get to be their chef. I learned how to cook myself and working here I learned so much more. For example, I didn’t know how to make rice before working here. I learned so many cooking techniques.
What made you apply: I was referred by Alejandro. He works here and told me it is a home where you support people who need help with daily tasks where you get to care for individuals. I applied based on that and had never worked in this type of field before. He said he was really happy where he works, so I applied
What makes you stay: Honestly it is a really convenient job. It is close to home, and it is not too difficult. Sure, there are difficulties, but compared to other jobs I find it peaceful, even in hard times.
What would you tell people interested in joining the team: I would tell them they will get to build meaningful connections here. I would say every day is different and you never know what to expect, but that it is rewarding. I would say they will share happy moments and even loss. I would tell them they will learn from coworkers and the people who live here. And that you can really be creative here and be yourself.
I started as a Youth DSP and would say many younger people don’t even know this is a job. I would tell them that it’s a fun job and sometimes you get to go on outings. It is a job, but it is so much more fun than a typical 9-5. We build connections with the people we support. I have made friends with staff and people who live here. The only downside is when you build that connection and they pass away. Someone recently passed away—and it felt sad at the house. It is weird, but it is the process of life. I lost my dad when I was 15 so I know how it feels to not have someone there, and this helps me care for others. I am here today and I am here to help others.
When not at work what do you like to do for fun: In summer I enjoy nature and being outside. I enjoy video games year-round. And I also enjoy food, trying new foods and making new foods. I recently made Spanish rice, and I have been exploring other cultures. Recently I tried Pho for the first time, and it is really good.
Do you volunteer in your community or school: Last year at Augsburg I volunteered at the Campus Cupboard helping with shelving food shipments students could grab food and prep meals.
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 for sponsorship opportunities.