Position: Developmental Assistant II
Years of Service: 35
Gabriel Hernandez was named one of Brooklyn DDSOO’S 2024 DSPs of the Year because he has dedicated his 35 years on the job to OPWDD’s mission by putting the needs of the people he supports first.
According to Brooklyn Team Treatment Leader Etienne Ayiemohtsoh, Gabriel provides top-notch support to the people in his care and has consistently performed his duties exceptionally.
“With each year of service, his work ethic has remained top tier and his compassion for all people is consistently unmatched,” Ayiemohtsoh says. “His relationships with people with developmental disabilities and with staff is evident of the support he gives to everyone. He can effectively communicate and lead; he can problem solve and see all tasks to completion; and he is fun to be around – everyone loves to be in his presence.”
Ayiemohtsoh says that Gabriel shows up to work every day, radiating positivity. She says he is always willing to ensure that all the people he supports have a fulfilling day.
“He advocates for the needs of everyone,” adds Crystalyn Baptiste, Developmental Assistant III, who works with Gabriel. “He ensures that all birthdays are celebrated with a personal touch. Holidays are celebrated with respect to all needs, and he uses a remarkable, person-centered approach.”
As an example, Ayiemohtsoh says that Gabriel has advocated countless times for the sake of a person who felt depressed after the loss of a family member.
“Gabriel took the time to empathize with the person while out on outings and reconnected him with the church he enjoys going to,” she says.
“He is always an active speaker and advocate during life plan meetings and has developed good relationships with family members and other advocates,” Ayiemohtsoh says. “Gabriel always puts the needs of the people he supports first by giving them the opportunity to choose for themselves. Whether it is a community outing or a person-centered event, Gabriel treats all with compassion and respect and ensures that their rights are respected and that each person feels valued.”
Baptiste adds that Gabriel is also a pleasure to work with, always ready to learn, and shares his knowledge and experience with all.
“Gabriel is a team player that staff and individuals can always rely on,” she adds. “He continuously advocates for the needs of people; every experience is enhanced by his dedication.”
“It is the consensus of his peers, supervisors, people with developmental disabilities, family members and the people he supervises that he is an exceptional and compassionate leader,” Ayiemohtsoh concludes. “His tenure at OPWDD for more than 30 years has been a benefit to all he has encountered or worked with.”