Inspiring hope, changing lives: Devereux honors direct care team members during appreciation week

At Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, our direct care team members continuously put others before themselves, delivering high-quality, compassionate care to children, adolescents and adults living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences.

During Direct Support Professional Recognition Week – Sept. 10-16 – Devereux is honoring its more than 2,700 direct care staff, including direct support professionals (DSPs), direct care professionals (DCPs) and youth care professionals (YCPs).

“Our direct care team members play a critical role in helping the youth and adults in their care achieve their goals and lead happy, productive and fulfilling lives,” said Devereux Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rhea Fernandes, Psy.D. “These dedicated and dependable professionals not only assist in meeting the day-to-day needs of our individuals, but also serve as role models, mentors and advocates, providing exemplary service, guidance and support. Our DSPs, DCPs and YCPs give nothing less than their all, every single day, and for that, we are incredibly grateful.”

Positively impacting lives

Devereux’s direct care staff are adaptable, attentive, patient and passionate as they strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve. Look below to find out what just a few of them love most about their jobs.

“I like seeking out challenges, making optimum use of opportunities and making a difference in people’s lives. To me, there is nothing more gratifying or rewarding than helping individuals who need it the most, especially those with developmental and cognitive differences. As a DSP, I teach life skills and activities of daily living. When I am assisting our individuals, I feel motivated and accomplished. My role allows me to use my skills and experience to the best of my ability.”
– Devereux California DSP Portia Ampaw

“I enjoy having the opportunity to directly impact the lives of our individuals. I take pride in providing our youth with a positive role model, and being a light in the darkness so many of them face. I want to help everyone I meet. This may not always be possible, but I do my best. If I can reach one child, and change the trajectory of their path, I am doing my job.”
– Devereux Florida Direct Care Professional Trenton Guy

“I like working directly with youth and being part of a wonderful team that creates a safe and nurturing environment for those in our care. Every day spent interacting with our individuals is a privilege and an opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives. Assisting with their school work, talking and listening to them, playing games and sharing laughter, allow me to help them feel protected and supported.”
– Devereux Texas YCP Zenovia Windover

Find your purpose: Join our team!

Do you have a passion for helping children, adolescents and adults in need? Devereux is hiring DSPs, DCPs and YCPs who are committed to supporting others in achieving their full potential. Visit jobs.devereux.org to explore our career opportunities today.

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