Erika Womack
Aug 1, 2010
Dear Erika,
John Maxwell, a famous author and entrepreneur, states that "A
leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way".
This quote embodies the significant role of the Direct Support
Professional and finding that right fit person is always our
goal.
Erika Womack defines that leader who believes that possibilities
are endless and goes hand in hand with them, showing them how to be
successful. When SPIN was planning to open the home on Hoffnagle
Street for three new women, you volunteered to visit one young lady
with Autism, Jinnell, at the agency she lived previously and began
spending time with her. Jinnell would be moving from a restrictive
setting into the community and she needed compassionate, loyal and
expective support to achieve her personal outcomes. Quickly, it was
apparent that you and Jinnel had an immediate special rapport and
you committed to work hard to grow this into a trusting
relationship. For all to see and admire, their deep connection has
supported Jinnell to increase her confidence, her independence and
her overall quality of life.
Through your courage and persistence, you have introduced Jinnell
to so many new and different activities tackling her fears and
developing exciting new interests. Your connector skills have
created successful opportunities for Jinnell to ride on the Swan
Boat at the Philadelphia Zoo and chase the waves of the ocean in
Atlantic City, activities that were never offered nor believed to
be possible for Jinnell. Most importantly, Jinnell's satisfaction
has been written all over her in her smile, her laugh and her
ability to become a part of her community.
Kim Williams wrote in her nomination letter that you "are
recognized for going above and beyond her job duties to fulfill
more than Jinnell's outcomes but fulfill the moments in her life
that open the window of opportunity for even more experiences as
well as building Nelly's confidence that she can attain so much in
life".
In addition, you are strongly invested in your professional
development as you request training for the support team at
Hoffnagle and have volunteered to complete the Behavioral Health
Training Series to expand your knowledge and share your experiences
with others.
Erika, we are so fortunate that you demonstrate your leadership
here at SPIN and that you live SPIN's mission as you support
Jinnell to pursue an inclusive meaningful life. On behalf of the
SPIN Board of Directors, your fellow SPIN employees and most
importantly, Jinnell, Stephanie and Hannah, we recognize and
appreciate your excellence as August's Employee of the Month.
Sincerely,
Judith R. Dotzman
Corporate Officer,
Professional Development