Position: Direct Support Assistant
Years of Service: 17
Anitra Spencer was named one of the Finger Lakes DDSOO’s 2024 DSPs of the Year because her supervisor says she is a “rare jewel.”
Taryn Jordan, Developmental Assistant II, says Anitra always goes above and beyond the call of duty.
“As her DA2, I appreciate her, beyond measure. And the people who she advocates for also want to nominate her as she is their favorite staff member; she treats them with a special compassion that allows them to feel respected and loved, and comfortable in their home,” says Jordan.
Anitra takes initiative to plan activities, and maintains operations of the home, without any directive to do so.
“Anitra has voluntarily become the med liaison, the house shopper, in-house activity coordinator, the fill-in supervisor as needed, and does all back-up advocate work for her co-workers,” says Jordan.
“She also plans out in-house activities for the month that encompass the wants and needs of the people in the home, such as physical activities, games and crafts; learning opportunities such as cooking classes, and socialization activities like game nights, bingo and outdoor gatherings. She encourages them to express their wants and needs and helps her to plan for grocery shopping. She always praises them for their involvement and choices.”
“I am nominating Anitra because I want her to know how much she is truly appreciated,” Jordan says. “She stepped up and did supervisor work when there were no DA1s or DA2 in the house. She advocates for the people in her care constantly, informing supervisors what they need and want. She has done numerous extra tasks, outside of her job duties, without having to be asked, and always with a smile on her face. She really is a rare jewel.”