Erwin October 2011 - December 2011
Jan 26, 2012
Dear Kaitlyn, Zahra, Brooke, Jessica, Michelle, Mary, Shaniqua, and Zelin,
The difference in what is occurring in the Erwin home from what was to what is, can be felt and experienced from the moment the Erwin door opens. The Erwin team has created a sense of comfort and ease within the home that really has never before existed. The change is real and it is no mistake. In her nomination letter, Assisting Director, Jennifer Williams labeled the difference a transformation. And it is transforming the lives of Connie and Janet, the two women for whom the Erwin home and all resources related to the Erwin home exists. This change took a tremendous amount of hard work and a village to support, but ultimately it is action taken by the incredible Erwin direct support professional team that has spelled the real difference.
After years of challenges and issues that directly affected the lives of Connie and Janet and the reputation of the Erwin home within the SPIN community, after years of not getting it right, something much more had to be done. Leaders who cared about getting it right for Janet and Connie came together and recognized that Erwin needed a new team of Direct Support Professionals to take on the challenge of transformational change. This team was hand selected for their strengths and then given the power, support and opportunity to make “Janet and Connie-First” decisions and take “Janet and Connie-First” action. And today we recognize them for their wonderful accomplishments in doing just that.
As noted by Jennifer, the whole team came together to tell positive stories about Connie for the Highlighted Individual of the Month, demonstrating their deep caring and respect for Connie and the strides she is making. Connie is now rarely seen without a smile on her face, and always looks great! For the second consecutive year Connie has been able to participate in her ISP meeting. Connie’s need for sedation prior to medical appointments has been reduced due to the stellar support she receives before and during appointments and also due to the relationships and trust she is building with her support team. Janet has a whole new hairstyle, thanks to the research by her HLC, Jess and niece, Angie. This new style will help Janet feel great as she celebrates her 50th birthday this year! Janet’s new style seems to be helping Janet create a greater zest for life, as she has been requesting to go out more rather than staying home to relax. In fact, Jennifer tells us, if you haven’t seen Connie and Janet recently, it is because the Erwin team is constantly introducing new and exciting activities which they are actively participating in. Recently they have enjoyed Styer’s farm market, events at the very cool Piazza, strolling through various parks, and shopping at local outlets. The team continues to research and support meaningful, fun community activities for the women.
This Erwin team has broken down barriers and continues to hurdle over obstacles that created years of struggle for Janet and Connie. Being a team that takes on the full responsibility for creating a life of possibility for two women who deserve nothing less is a huge endeavor. This team has committed themselves to performance excellence in making that happen for Janet and Connie. On behalf of SPIN’s Corporate Board, the entire management team and Connie and Janet, I proclaim the Erwin team as the Team of the Quarter. Please join me in thanking and recognizing these wonderful, talented women for their efforts and achievements each and every night and day.
My Warmest Regards,
Kathleen Brown McHale
President and CEO