Position: Direct Support Assistant
Years of Service: 13
Earle Russell was named the 2024 Brooklyn DDSOO DSP of the Year due to his strong commitment, not only to the people he supports, but to his colleagues, as well.
Team Treatment Leader Cecelia Gaines says, “I have had the opportunity to watch Earle carry out his day-to-day job responsibilities at OPWDD, and the commitment that he provides to the people he supports and his colleagues is not less than 100 percent.”
“Earle does whatever it takes, and not just because he wants to excel, but because he does not want us as a team to fail,” Gaines adds.
Earle is described as not only productive and committed, but passionate about his job.
“He’s an enthusiastic employee. He’s punctual and dependable. He completes assignments on time and takes part in additional responsibilities,” Gaines says. “Earle stands out as a role model for others, he is respected by the people he works with, family members and advocates, as well as his colleagues.”
She says Earle volunteers to work and assist with some of the holiday cooking on Thanksgiving and Christmas, ensuring that all the people living at the home have a family-style dinner together.
He makes the holiday celebration enjoyable for staff, residents and families visiting the home, Gaines says.
Last year, she said, Earle assisted the people living in the home where he works in selecting artwork for their bedrooms that beautifully decorated and represented each person with dignity and respect.
“Earle is a big part of the team; he always finds ways to make other people feel appreciated and heard,” Gaines says. “He’s been a great asset to the home and the Metro NY DDSOO Operations family for years, and the people who live in the home where he works will agree.”
“Some would call what Mr. Russell does ‘supporting people,’ but Earle would call it just hanging out with the guys and being in the moment with them,” she adds.
“As Earle’s Treatment Team Leader, I appreciate his team spirit and enthusiasm every day. I want to thank him for all he does; I’m grateful to have him on our team,” Gaines concludes.