Position: Direct Support Assistant
Years of Service: 14
Alla Bowser was named one of the Taconic DDSOO’s 2024 DSPs of the Year because she approaches every situation with both colleagues and the people she supports with positive energy and compassion.
Scott Pitcher, Developmental Assistant III, says Alla is a hard worker who comes to work ready to jump in and help everyone.
“She looks for opportunities to assist her coworkers, supervisors and the people we support,” he says. “Alla works in a home which houses people with challenging behaviors. She remains calm and caring while helping people manage their difficult behaviors. She helps the people she supports routinely better themselves throughout their daily routines and takes great delight in taking people out into the community to their favorite places.”
Alla’s supervisors know they can always count on her. Pitcher says she accepts all assignments with an attitude of excellence and professionalism and is an excellent example to her coworkers.
“Alla has had many personal challenges over the past year – however, her passion for the work she does never falters. She remains ready to help those in need of her services,” Pitcher adds.
Her dedication to the people she supports set Alla apart. Pitcher says she goes far beyond what is expected of her.
“Her focus never shifts from what is best for the people she serves,” he says. “Alla has excellent judgement when it comes to their care and well-being. She meets the definition of a true team player and will jump in to help regardless of who is asking. Alla also stays calm during intense situations and does not get overwhelmed easily. She stays focused and assists people to use their coping skills. People are known to return to the ‘green zone’ much more quickly when Alla is helping them.”
Pitcher says Alla has a great rapport with the people she supports. They look forward to her being on shift.
“Alla stands out because of her dedication to our mission of helping people with developmental disabilities live richer lives,” says Pitcher. “Alla shows exceptional patience and understanding. The people she works with always speak very highly of her. They express much appreciation for her efforts to make sure they get out into the community. They all enjoy when Alla is working, and it is obvious they know she cares about them. She takes great pride in looking for ways to go above and beyond for them.”