Position: Direct Support Assistant
Years of Service: 14
Timothy Fitzpatrick was named the Broome DDSOO 2024 DSP of the Year because he is known as a “jack of all trades” at the home where he works and is considered an “unsung hero.”
Karen Wales, Team Treatment Leader at Broome says Tim was nominated by several of his peers and supervisor because he is always willing to lend a hand.
“Rather than talking about what kind of special effort Tim does, it is more reasonable to ask, ‘what DOESN’T Tim do?’” Wales says. “Tim is always willing to lend a hand to a coworker, make the day go smoother for someone he supports, or to step in wherever needed. He’s a ‘jack of all trades’ around the home, and he’s managed to master all assignments.”
Tim has also provided guidance and mentoring to many new DSPs, with great results.
“Tim serves as a friend and role model to the people he supports,” Wales says. “They are happy to see him, and he understands their needs and goals so well.
“Tim is an excellent listener, who pays attention not only to the verbal cues, but also to the more subtle forms of communication,” she adds. “He knows the likes and dislikes of all the people and makes sure their preferences are taken into consideration.”
Tim’s steady, consistent approach puts the people he supports at ease, according to Wales, and they know they can rely on him to help them through their days.
“He is reassuring to individuals experiencing stress at appointments, he is supportive and kind on those days just relaxing at home, and he is ready to jump in the van and make memories out in the community,” she adds. “Whatever the day has in store, Tim is willing to rise to the occasion and make it successful.
“Not everyone toots their own horn, sometimes it takes the team stepping in and recognizing how deserving of recognition someone is,” Wales says. “Tim would probably be fine with remaining an unsung hero, but like so many other unsung heroes, he is deserving of awards, parades, a party and more.”