In this episode of the Better Together Supports Podcast, host Jacob interviews Danika Kennedy about the essential qualities needed to be an exceptional Direct Support Professional (DSP). Danika shares her top five qualities: passion for helping people, compassion and patience, flexibility, the ability to make things fun, and celebrating small wins. The discussion delves into each quality, providing real-world examples and practical advice for both current and aspiring DSPs. Danika emphasizes the importance of self-care, adaptability, and maintaining a positive attitude, even on challenging days. The conversation also touches on the rewards of the job and the significance of recognizing progress, no matter how small. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career as a DSP or looking to improve their skills in the field.

Ready to join the team? Apply here: https://bettertogethersupports.com/join-our-team/

In this episode of the Better Together Supports Podcast, host Jacob interviews Danika Kennedy, an experienced DSP who now trains new hires. Danika shares her journey into the field, discussing her initial expectations versus the realities of the job. She highlights the importance of comfort over professionalism in dress, the need for patience in seeing results, and the critical skills of setting boundaries and maintaining humility. Danika also provides insights into the challenges and rewards of the role, emphasizing the importance of being passionate about helping others. The conversation touches on the unique aspects of working with both adults and children with disabilities, and how DSP work can be a stepping stone to other careers in the field. Throughout the episode, Danika's experiences illuminate the realities of working as a DSP, offering valuable insights for those considering entering this rewarding field.

In this episode of the Better Together Supports Podcast, host Jacob interviews Randi Cravens, a mother and DSP with invaluable experience in the world of intellectual disabilities. Randi shares her 19-year journey raising her son Jacob, who has Down syndrome, discussing the challenges, growth, and unexpected joys along the way. She offers practical advice for supporting individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of patience, empathy, and flexibility. Randi also provides insights into her role as a DSP, highlighting the rewarding nature of the work and the personal growth it fosters. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of life with Down syndrome, learn strategies for effective caregiving, and be inspired by Randi's positive outlook and dedication to her son and her work.

In this episode of the Better Together Podcast, host Jacob interviews Rhonda Rhodes, Principal of CTEC Career Technical Education Center in Salem. Rhonda introduces CTEC, a public-private partnership with Mountain West Investment Corporation, providing career technical education in a state-of-the-art facility. She shares insights into the center's newest mental health program, which integrates English and social studies, offering students practical experience and industry-relevant skills. This innovative program addresses workforce shortages and prepares students for high-wage, relevant careers.

Rhonda reflects on the success of the first year of the mental health program, highlighting the strong community support, facility upgrades, and significant student achievements. She discusses how the program has provided students with a sense of connection, inspiration, and confidence in their abilities to make a difference. The program's unique approach has not only equipped students with valuable skills but also ensured they understand the importance of mental health in their communities.

Looking ahead, Rhonda expresses excitement for the upcoming second year of the program, which includes hands-on internships in Title I schools and peer-to-peer support opportunities. These real-world experiences will further enhance the students' education and prepare them for their future careers. Rhonda's passion for the program and its impact on the community is evident, and she emphasizes the importance of innovative education in addressing critical needs. Tune in to learn more about how CTEC is revolutionizing education and making a positive impact on students and the community.

Interested in joining the BTS team? Visit https://bettertogethersupports.com/join-our-team/

Join hosts Jacob and David Neely as they explore the crucial role of community integration for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In this engaging episode, they discuss:

• Why community integration is a key focus for Better Together Supports
• The challenges IDD individuals and their families face in everyday activities
• How Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) foster community integration
• A inspiring success story of helping an individual build trust in community settings
• Practical ways friends and family can support IDD community members
• The importance of patience, consistency, and trying new experiences

Featuring personal anecdotes, professional insights, and actionable advice, this episode highlights the transformative power of community connections. Whether you're a caregiver, friend, or interested in making a difference, you'll gain valuable perspectives on creating a more inclusive world for individuals with IDD.

Visit bettertogethersupports.com to learn more about how you can get involved.

In this enlightening episode of Better Together Supports, we dive deep into the crucial role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in developing personalized plans for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Our hosts explore how DSPs, drawing from their extensive experience in the IDD community, work tirelessly to help clients not just exist, but truly thrive in their communities. We'll discuss:

1. The unique approach Better Together Supports takes in empowering both clients and DSPs
2. How DSPs assess individual needs and aspirations to create tailored support plans

Strategies for promoting community integration, acceptance, and contributionWhether you're a family member, care provider, or simply interested in inclusive community building, this episode offers valuable insights into the compassionate and skilled work of DSPs. Join us as we celebrate the dedication of these professionals and their vital role in fostering independence and fulfillment for individuals with IDD.

Tune in to learn how Better Together Supports is redefining care and community inclusion, one personalized plan at a time.

Interested in learning more about joining our team? Find out more here: https://bettertogethersupports.com/join-our-team/

In this inaugural episode of the Better Together Supports Podcast, hosts Jacob, David Neely (founder and director), and Sarah Martinez (relations unit supervisor) discuss the company's origin story and its mission to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals in the IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) community.

David shares his personal connection to the IDD community, having grown up with a mother who was a special education teacher and fostering children with disabilities. This experience drove him to start Better Together Supports, with the goal of empowering individuals with IDD to thrive and be active participants in their communities.

Sarah discusses her journey of joining the company, learning about the IDD community, and the rewarding experience of connecting families with compassionate caregivers. The hosts also delve into the role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), who are at the heart of Better Together Supports. They emphasize the importance of building relationships and finding common interests between DSPs and clients to provide the best possible care.

David and Sarah share stories of overcoming obstacles, such as finding creative solutions to support a family with technology barriers and ensuring a client's satisfaction by finding the perfect DSP match. Looking to the future, they express their commitment to providing opportunities for people who have never worked with the IDD community before, focusing on equipping high school students and lowering barriers to entry for those who want to make a difference.

The episode concludes with excitement for the upcoming episodes of the Better Together Supports Podcast, which will feature stories from DSPs and families, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the IDD community and the positive impact the company is making.