Our DSP for this week is Olivia, and she works at our Highview home in Eagan. She just celebrated her one-year work anniversary and is looking forward to many more.
Jenny Ackerley, Program Manager, says, “When Olivia stepped into her role as a DSP, it was apparent that she was already comfortable with helping people. She immediately brought kind energy when assisting the men she supports. She has been a reliable staff, is a very good teammate, and has fantastic communication with me as her manager. Olivia slid right into the family dynamic at Highview, and I never felt that I had to convince her that she belonged here.”
On Tuesday Olivia was part of the crew helping with a community party as they celebrated the installation of a Little Free Library, and it was apparent that she enjoys the work and the people at Highview.
Olivia, thank you for making room for caregiving as you work towards your CNA and RN. You will be a great nurse, and we appreciate you!
ABOUT OLIVIA
Number of years/months with Living Well: 1 year
Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy painting, sewing, hiking, and anything I can do with my friends.
Education: I am currently in school pursuing a career in healthcare. I am working towards my CNA license and plan on going on to be a registered nurse after that.
Job Experience/History: Before Living Well I worked as a barista and in retail, I like a fast-paced environment!
Favorite part of the job: My favorite part of working at Highview is being able to create good memories with the people I serve. It really fills my cup emotionally to be able to bring joy to someone’s life by assisting them with activities they like and trying new things.
Favorite or craziest work story: My favorite work story was when I was able to go to Color Me Mine with one of the people I serve. He likes drawing and painting, so it was a great activity for him and really fun for me to share my interest in painting at work as well.
What is your motivation for coming to work: My motivation for coming to work is knowing that I make a real difference in the world because I show up. There is a real impact in the work I do.
What made you apply: I was looking to get my start in the world of caregiving, and a friend of mine who had worked at Living Well in the past put it on my radar. I did some digging and felt like the company really aligned with my values and goals, which drove my choice to apply.
What makes you stay: The teamwork and community that exists with my coworkers and within the company really makes me feel welcome. Everyone is integral to the work being done.
What would you tell people interested in joining the team: Do it! You open your life up to so many new experiences and can do so much for other people when you work at Living Well.
When not at work what do you like to do for fun: I enjoy reading, going on hikes around the Twin Cities, being around my cat and my family.
Do you volunteer in your community or school: I try to make an effort to be involved in community resources such as mutual aid and grocery assistance for families around the Twin Cities struggling to afford necessities.
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.