Our DSP for this week is Lisa. She started her career with Living Well almost four years ago as a DSP at Inndale. She joined the team after working at a day program where she saw the need for DSPs during the pandemic. When she talked with Program Manager, Mary Larson, it became clear there was a staffing shortage and Lisa was inspired to apply, and to help in any way she could.
Mary, says, “I first met her during the early years of the pandemic as she was doing virtual work with Hailie through her day program, and she instantly became a part of the family! I appreciate her flexibility and willingness to adjust her schedule to help out wherever and whenever she can. I can count on her to assist with outings, baking projects and spending quality time with people. Lisa brings her kind caring and witty personality to Inndale.”
People who live at the home have great things to say, too. Don shares that Lisa is the kindest person and is always willing to go out of her way. He says, “She is a great listener and helps me problem solve if needed.” Hailie says, “She was my para when I attended TESA and now she works at my home. I love to bake with her! On Tuesdays I enjoy having dinner with her and catching up.” John shares that she is nice, kind and easy to talk to. Sam says, “Lisa goes above and beyond the call of duty for all of us. She puts a lot of care in what she does.” And Michael says, “We enjoy a lot of the same shows, and I enjoy talking and joking with her.”
It appears the whole team are fans, and Mary adds, “We are grateful to have Lisa as a part of the Inndale team!” Lisa, we appreciate your kind heart and are grateful you joined us as such a difficult time.
ABOUT LISA
Number of years/months with Living Well: 3 years 7 months
Hobbies/Interests + When not at work, what do you like to do for fun: My hobbies and interests and what I like to do outside work are basically the same. I love spending time with my four grown children and their spouses and families. I have 10 grandkids between eight months and 11 years old. They are full of love and keep me young. I also love dreaming about traveling with my husband to places we have not been to in the US and places overseas. I also enjoy playing Bunco, drinking coffee, Happy Hours, dinners and walks with friends. Lastly, I love picking strawberries in June/July.
Education: I graduated from High School in Maryland and then attended Golden Valley Lutheran College where I received a two-year degree (AA) as a Medical Secretary. I never actually worked as a Medical Secretary, but I did in many Secretary roles.
Job Experience: I was a secretary for 20 years, a stay at home mom for 13 years, a Para for 7 years, and a PCA working a second job for 10 years.
Favorite part of the job: Building relationships with people we serve, clients, and coworkers by listening and spending time with them. My favorite part at Living Well is when I can take clients out doing things they love and are excited to do.
Favorite or craziest work story: A favorite work story is this last National Night Out (August 2024) when some of us walked and some of us drove to a cul-de-sac in our neighborhood and joined the community of Inndale for ice cream floats. Most neighbors were between 70-85 years old and were genuinely interested in meeting, greeting and engaging in conversation with us. The second funniest memory is loading all of us up and coming to Northland for our COVID shots. It was fun to see all the different houses join together with all their energy.
What is your motivation for coming to work + What would you tell people interested in joining the team:The thing that motivates me for coming to work is the same thing I tell people that are interested in working here. Working at Inndale is like being a part of a big family. We laugh and joke with each other. The staff all work together and help each other out. Mary and Sheila are always trying to make our jobs better with clear communication (and chocolate from time to time). We are always getting treats and thank you notes from the main office. Michael and I are from the same generation and play our own trivia games on the old TV shows like Carol Burnett, Gilligan’s Island, I Love Lucy and Hogan’s Heroes. We often end the night with “Goodnight Johnboy.”
What made me apply: The need for DSP’s during COVID. I believe that people with disabilities should not have to worry if enough people will show up to provide their cares. When Mary told me about the hardship of being able to hire enough employees due to COVID, I was encouraged to apply. Then, Mary’s confidence that I would be able to do the job cinched the deal.
What makes me stay: That Mary and the clients count on me. It makes it easy to stay where you are appreciated and treated with respect. It is a very well-run house with great communication. You never have to guess what is expected of you.
Do you volunteer in your community or school: I currently don’t but I have volunteered both at church and schools. My family is growing so fast, and I work three jobs so do not have time currently to volunteer.
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.