Antoinette Ames

Feb 7, 2013

Dear Antoinette,

Maya Angelou reminds us that “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope”.

Gbenah Lappia ensured in your nomination letter that we understood the depth of your love, the height of your jump and the limitlessness of your hope for Pam, Monica, and Jocelyn all the while demonstrating SPIN’s Pillars in every giving action.

Since October 28, 2007 when you began with SPIN you have been sharing your gifts and talents in all that you do. Your caring and goal oriented approach coupled with your high integrity results present you as an outstanding Direct Support Professional who is an example to us all. Some people dream about doing things, Antoinette you not only dream but you “get to done” and that is what supports people to be truly relevant in their communities. And you never forget the little details that truly matter to people therefore developing strong, trusting relationships with Pam, Monica, and Jocelyn, their families, fellow co-workers, and managers.

Antoinette, your interest in each of the women ensures that they are introduced to new and exciting opportunities and that their days are filled with meaningful activities. When Monica was in need of residential support, SPIN had an opportunity at Creswood.  You knew Monica needed extra TLC to support her successful connection and you were critical to her smooth transition. In addition, you know how important Pam’s job is to her and you support her to get there on time and be prepared to take on her duties each day with success. And of course, you’re always there for Jocelyn, planning her favorite activities and sharing special time with her.

There are current staffing challenges at Creswood and your leadership and devotion has been instrumental in ensuring quality supports and services are provided to the women.  Gbenah states in his nomination letter that “Antoinette is a consistent professional, she always exhibits a people first philosophy at all times, her combination of high ethical standards and experience has been an excellent tool in mentoring other team members, her instincts for excellence in solving problems with other team members has also been a great asset. Antoinette has passion for the work she does and her positive attitude and collaboration ultimately makes the home a better place to work and a happier and healthy home for the individuals to live.

Your understanding and compassion of family members creates trusting, positive relationships that is so important to all.  Your managers and peers see you as a change agent, addressing issues with a can do, problem solving approach. This influences others to follow your lead.

 Antoinette, on behalf of the SPIN Corporate Board, SPIN Managers, your fellow colleagues and most importantly, Pam, Monica, Jocelyn and their families, we are so very proud of you and congratulate you on this most deserving Employee of the Month Award for January, 2013.  Thank you for your commitment to supporting people to live a life of possibilities. Through your passionate dedication and outstanding performance we see how you decrease barriers, jump hurdles, leap fences, penetrate walls and provide hope and possibility to the people your support.

With deep appreciation and congratualtions,

Judith R. Dotzman
Executive Director