Theresa Cooper
Oct 16, 2013
Dear Theresa,
John Quincy Adams said “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
Lucky for SPIN, in May of 2004 such a leader entered the doors of the home on Linden Avenue, then Ripley 2 and Theresa Cooper has been making a difference in the lives of people since that very first day! Theresa, as an outstanding DSP, it is so easy to witness your clear demonstration of SPIN’s Pillars in all that you do and say. Your relationship and overall connection with Margie, Phyllis and Sue is a wonderful example of what partnership and synergy really look like and truly mean.
Your supervisor and nominator, Peg Capasso, boasts that the Ripley 2 team works extremely hard and well together but she especially describes your “whatever it takes” attitude and shares that this is the key to the women achieving their personal outcomes. Theresa, you support the women to dream big, reach for their goals and you are with them all the way. You know that there are days that are very challenging but your positive attitude and approaches can change the most difficult of circumstances to one with great opportunity. And it is done with a huge smile that reflects your love of your work.
Here are a few examples of your high performance excellence on any given day as noted by Peg:
As a young, extremely active woman, Margie does not want to sit still for longer than 10 minutes while at home. Knowing exactly what Margie needs and wants, you ensure her active engagement in the community through long walks in the neighborhood, exploring her community, supporting Margie to live a healthy lifestyle and burning off some excess energy as well. Theresa, your calm and patient manner enables Margie to feel safe and cared about.
Phyllis, on the other hand, chooses to spend her days being pampered such as having her hair and nails done at the salon or at home. As a senior, Phyllis is experiencing changing needs and your gentle compassion supports Phyllis to feel safe and loved.
Last but not least, you have supported Sue over so many years and have developed a relationship like no other! You literally know what each other are going to say or do next! Your incredible investment in Sue has been life changing for her and her family. You find a special way to involve Sue’s passion for old time television shows, especially the Brady Bunch, in her life. You have a wonderful relationship with Sue’s mother ensuring that Sue and her mother have special time together and communicating all that is important with the family. Mrs. Gress communicates her extreme satisfaction and appreciation for your caring, patience and your belief in all that is possible for Sue. Your understanding and compassion of family members creates trusting, positive relationships that is so important to all.
Theresa, your caring and goal oriented approach coupled with your high integrity present you as an outstanding Direct Support Professional who is an example to us all. 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. Your passion for the work you do, your positive attitude and collaboration makes the home a better place to work and especially a happier and healthier home for the women to live.
Theresa, on behalf of the SPIN Corporate Board, SPIN Managers, your fellow colleagues and most importantly, Margie, Phyllis, Sue and their families, we are so very proud of you and congratulate you on this most deserving Employee of the Month Award for September, 2013. Thank you for your commitment to supporting people to live a life of possibilities. I believe strongly that John Quincy Adams would say today that through your passionate dedication and outstanding performance your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more. We certainly concur and there is no doubt, you are a leader.
With deep appreciation and congratulations,
Judith Dotzman
Executive Director