Our DSP this week is Patrick. He is a new employee, having been with us only four months, but is a standout already! Patrick found out about Living Well at a college job fair and thought it sounded like a meaningful job, so applied. And we are so grateful that he did. He spent the summer with our Southcrest house and also picked up shifts at Brunkswick—and made an impression at both homes.
Enjoying time at Brunswick with Marcus.
Program Manager, Bess Bryan, says, “We all think the world of him and had the best summer fun with Patrick.” She is sad he is going back to college but is delighted that he is already on board to take on occasional shifts, and that he is already committed to taking Marcus to a Wild game this winter.
Kim Sabow, a neighbor to the Southcrest house who was featured in our gala mission video, says, “Every time we walk or drive by, Patrick is actively engaged with the crew and having fun. It is obvious he is happy to be there, and it is nice to see a young adult doing such important work and doing it well.” Heather Heier, Communications and Events Manager, agrees with Kim, saying, “Patrick was around during some filming at the house and when I asked how he liked it, he immediately smiled and talked warmly about the people, their families, and the staff. We are super lucky to have students like Patrick take an interest in this work. I immediately told my 15-year-old son about him and said it would be a fun house for him to work at when he turns 16.”
On vacation with the Southcrest crew.
Patrick, we wish you the best as you head back to college, and cannot wait to see you at the houses again soon!
Congrats, Patrick, we appreciate you!
ABOUT PATRICK
Number of years/months with Living Well: 4 months
Hobbies/Interests: My biggest passion is Muay Thai and that is the thing I spend most my free time on. To explain, it’s like boxing, but you are allowed to use your entire body as a Weapon (elbows, kicks, knees). It teaches discipline and respect. I also enjoy reading and video games with my friends and girlfriend.
Education: University of Minnesotan with a Biology Major
Job Experience/History: German Tutor in Switzerland. And Target Employee.
Favorite part of the job: Spending quality time with the residents. Quality time such as going on trips together or even just doing an activity at the house or someplace close. It doesn’t feel like a job at all, it’s simply a fun time with cool people.
Favorite or craziest work story: I love how when one of the people who lives there comes inside to play she immediately picks up the shoes that were meticulously lined up by the door and tosses them. There is no obvious reason other than the love of throwing shoes, and I think it must be part of the play. It makes me smile every time.
What is your motivation for coming to work: It’s the residents. I love spending time with them and that’s what makes me look forward to going to work.
What made you apply: I saw an ad at the college job fair and I thought it would be really cool to work there.
What made you stay: It’s the best job I’ve ever had. It honestly doesn’t feel like a job and it feels like I’m doing something important and that I have a positive impact on their lives.
What would you tell people interested in joining the team: It’s a job that is meaningful that everyone can do that is also fun. If you want to make real connections and have a positive impact, the job is for you
When not at work or school, he spends time with his girlfriend.
When not at work what do you like to do for fun: Muay Thai Training and spending time with my friends and my beautiful girlfriend.
Do you volunteer in your community or school: During the school year, I was an ESL teacher online. I also participated in fundraisers at The Academy Brooklyn Center for the Tubman Foundation by fighting on Muay Thai fight cards. Entry to the fights was free, but people were motivated by us and the event in general to donate.
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.