Tiara Blackwell

Oct 20, 2015

October 20, 2015

Dear Tiara,

Philip Philips, one of the American Idol winners, became famous when he sang the essence of what everyone is looking for in their life, to make a house their home.  We are proud to say that Tiara you, made your famous status when you stopped at nothing and believed in all that was possible to make Hannah’s house, her home! As many of us know, Hannah was looking for an opportunity to create change in her life. She had dreams and goals and unfortunately she experienced great challenges trying to achieve these outcomes.  Hannah knew who was committed to her and who was not. Tiara, you were and are devoted to Hannah and she knew it and so did and does everyone else who has the honor and the privilege to see the two of you together.

Tiara, you have been an outstanding Direct Support Professional and Lead DSP supporting the women at Dale for over 5 years.  When Hannah moved into Dale you mad it your intent to develop a trusting relationship with her.  And that you did!  Hannah and her committed team knew she needed something different. A move was planned for Hannah to a house on Dittman Street in the beginning of March, 2015. Tiara, you volunteered with deep dedication to support Hannah with the transition and again with deep conviction you supported Hannah on her new journey, not just living in a house but living in a home!  You spent tireless hours cleaning, setting up, and decorating the empty house. You invested quality time with Hannah seeking her likes and assisting Hannah to customize each room with her own Personal touch with her choice of throw pillows, wall phrases and other decorative touches.

Tiara, in addition, you supported Hannah to take risks and try new experiences as she continued to reach toward her personal outcomes.  Improving her self care and living a healthy lifestyle were two critical goals for Hannah.  This was going to be a challenge but one that you not only had wonderful creative ideas of how to succeed but you believed in all that is possible for Hannah. With the theme of it’s fun and good for you, you have taught and supported Hannah to develop a healthy menu, purchase healthy foods and cook healthy meals.  Exercise is an equal part of living a healthy lifestyle and you encourage Hannah to walk often and of course the two of you love to dance! This commitment to wellness has resulted in Hannah losing 25 pounds! You have empowered Hannah to believe in herself and realize how important it is to respect, like and be proud of yourself.

With your outstanding support Hannah has become active in her community on a daily basis, developing a monthly outing schedule of her choices of destination.  You provide critical information and options to Hannah so that she can make her own decisions. She is self determined and enjoying every minute of it!

Tiara, your leadership is evident in all your actions and interactions as you are an incredible role model to everyone.  You mentor and train new staff and demonstrate your critical role as a Lead Direct Support Professional in all that you do. On behalf of the SPIN Corporate Board, SPIN Management Team, your colleagues and most importantly, Hannah, we recognize and congratulate you for your caring, determined commitment that has changed Hannah’s life. Tiara, and most importantly, you are our famous  STAR for supporting Hannah to achieve what everyone is looking for in life, to make a house a home!

With Deepest Congratulations and Appreciation,

Judith Dotzman
Executive Director