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• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
• Recognizing Our Employees
• Celebrating Our Devereux Families
• Sharing Messages of Hope

Sharing inspirational messages of hope

At Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, our families, caregivers, team members and supporters motivate and encourage us every day with their passion, compassion, strength and resolve.

Letters and testimonials

Look below to view inspirational stories, testimonials and messages of hope, kindness and resilience from members of our Devereux community. 

At Devereux, our community supporters are nothing short of amazing – they are committed to making a meaningful and positive difference in the lives of the children, adolescents and adults we serve.

Recently, the Atlanta, Georgia, nonprofit For the Kid in All of Us donated more than 60 backpacks filled with school supplies, including notebooks, pens, colored pencils, rulers and erasers, to Devereux Georgia youth.

“We want to thank For the Kid in All of Us for their generous donation,” said Devereux Georgia Development Director Matthew Dobson. “For the past 12 years, the organization has provided school supplies for the individuals we serve at the start of each school year, as well as toys during the holidays. When our youth receive these items their faces light up. The recent donation of school supplies will help ensure our individuals have the tools they need to enhance their learning and succeed in the classroom.”

Look below to view photos of For the Kid in All of Us volunteers and the nonprofit’s school supply donation.

At Devereux, we are committed to helping the children, adolescents and adults in our care build the skills they need to succeed in life.

Recently, students enrolled in Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s vocational program participated in virtual mock job interviews with a member of the organization’s People Operations team.

“Job interviews can be intimidating. One way we help our students prepare for this experience is through mock interviews,” said Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Executive Director Nadyia Abbas, M.A., CGAS, LMHC. “Mock interviews can not only help our students improve their interview skills, but also reduce their stress and anxiety about interviewing, and boost their self-confidence and self-esteem. We want to thank People Operations Generalist Jessica Migliore for conducting these interviews. Our students did a fantastic job – they were excited to participate, and are ready for the real thing.”

Look below to view a photo of a student participating in a mock interview with Migliore.

This graduation season, we want to wish all of our 2023 graduates the very best.

At the Devereux Center for Autism Research and Education Services (CARES), six students recently graduated. CARES team members shared what they will miss most about them.

Congratulations to the class of 2023!

At Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services, seven students graduated from the Devereux School for Integrated Learning. Team members shared each student’s greatest areas of improvement and plans for the future, as well as what they will miss most about them.

Congratulations to the four students who recently graduated from Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services’ Brandywine and Mapleton schools.

Team members shared each student’s strengths and post-high school plans.

At Devereux, our employees strive to provide the highest quality care and support for the children, adolescents and adults they serve.

Recently, a few Devereux Georgia team members shared what they love most about their jobs.

“At a very young age, I knew I wanted to help children, and Devereux is the perfect place to do that. I am constantly in awe of the individuals we serve, and their resiliency. I know we are a stepping stone in their lives, and the amazing things they are meant to do.”

– Rhiannon Brown, case coordinator

“Devereux is a place where you not only have the opportunity to assist in the growth of the individuals we serve, but it also is a place where you are empowered to grow as well.”

– Jennifer Mitchell, office manager

“I love working at Devereux because I have been given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the individuals we serve. It has always been my passion to help others, and I am able to do just that.”

– Erica Rowland, case coordinator

“My favorite part of the job is seeing a child go home. It’s wonderful to witness them have the tools in their life to succeed.”

– Sydney Westmoreland, direct care professional

“I have the opportunity to interact with everyone on campus, our employees, as well as our youth, and I take pride in helping them.”

– Danielle Tate, campus supervisor

Graduation season is upon us – it’s a time of celebration, reflection and excitement about the future.

Recently, Devereux Vice President of Educational Services Jacalyn Auris, Ed.D., provided the commencement address for Avon Grove Charter School. During her speech, which took place at Lincoln University, Auris focused on the school’s theme for the 2022-23 school year: “Rising Strong.”

Auris shared lessons she has learned throughout her career that have helped her define “Rising Strong.” She concluded her speech by reminding the graduates, “As you are ‘Rising Strong,’ ignore the word ‘ideal;’ don’t catastrophize mistakes; know the role you should be playing in various situations; show the world a new way of looking at things; and take care of yourself. Don’t forget to also do your part to help others ‘Rise Strong.’”

Look below to view a photo of Auris providing the commencement address.

At Devereux, there is no greater reward than hearing how well the children, adolescents and adults we serve are doing after they leave our care. Recently, a youth who completed specialized behavioral health treatment at Devereux Florida’s Viera campus wrote a note to team members, thanking them for their support.

“You people inspired me to do well. I hope you get more kids to inspire. Thanks for the opportunity to live and learn.”

– Former Devereux Florida individual

It’s their time to shine!

Students at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island had the opportunity to showcase their special skills during a recent talent show at the Devereux School.

Approximately 20 students participated in the talent show, singing, dancing, rapping or performing routines. All grades and ages were welcome to take part. A few teachers also joined in on the fun.

“During the talent show, you could feel the sense of community among our students, teachers and staff,” said Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Education Director Katherine Flynn, M.S.Ed. “Every student who performed was cheered on by their peers and teachers. By participating in the show, our students learned that each of us has something unique to offer, and we are here to support one another and celebrate our differences. The talent show was such a success that we hope to hold another one soon.”

At Devereux, we are grateful for our community supporters who help us make a positive difference in the lives of the individuals and families we serve.

Recently, a Pennsylvania synagogue donated $9,000 to help Devereux Florida families impacted by hurricanes in the fall of 2022.

The donation from the Congregation Beth Or in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, was used to repair homes that were damaged in the hurricanes and provide additional support for families.

“We want to thank the Congregation Beth Or for its extremely generous donation to provide hurricane relief for our families in southeast Florida,” said Devereux Florida Director of External Affairs Lindsey Phillips. “With Beth Or’s support, we were able to repair a mobile home, fix the roof of another home and provide additional assistance to our families.”

Look below to view photos of Devereux Florida team members providing support to families affected by the hurricanes.

Thirty teams brought their energy to the ice for the ninth “Face-off for Autism” hockey tournament to raise critical funds for Devereux Pennsylvania’s Bridge Fund.

This year’s event generated $37,000 for the Bridge Fund, which helps adults living with autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities – served by Devereux Pennsylvania’s Community Adult Autism Partnership Program (CAAPP) – bridge the gap between high school graduation and adult programming to ensure there is no lapse in service.

Approximately 500 people attended the daylong tournament, hosted by Shinny USA, at Ice Line at West Chester, Pennsylvania.

“What an incredible event – kudos to our players, sponsors and volunteers, including our planning committee, for helping to make it a success,” said Devereux Executive Director of Autism Services Todd Harris, Ph.D. “Those in attendance had a unique opportunity to hear from adults enrolled in Devereux Pennsylvania’s CAAPP. Our individuals shared how the program has helped them lead more fulfilling lives. The Bridge Fund is instrumental in providing much-needed supports and services for these adults.”

If you would like to make a donation to the Bridge Fund, access our donor form, or scan the QR code below with your cellphone.

Look below to view photos from the “Face-off for Autism” hockey tournament.

Save the date: ‘Tee-off for Autism’ on Sept. 22

Get ready to take to the greens! The “Tee-off for Autism” golf tournament – also benefitting Devereux Pennsylvania’s Bridge Fund – will be held on Friday, Sept. 22. Interested sponsors or participants should contact Dr. Todd Harris or Kate Langston.

Showing our #DevereuxPride

Recently, Devereux Pocono team members began advertising on a billboard near their center in Newfoundland, Pennsylvania.

“Many of our employees drive by the billboard on their way to work, and tell us they feel like local celebrities,” said Devereux Pocono Executive Director Tina Skoda. “Not only is the billboard attracting potential team members to our organization, but it also is making our current staff feel even more proud of what they do, helping to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Look below to view a photo of the billboard.

Looking for a career you love? Join our team!

Want to help youth and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences achieve their full potential? Visits jobs.devereux.org to explore our career opportunities today.

At Devereux, we strive to foster an environment of continuous improvement and learning. Recently, Devereux Arizona Learning Program Manager Mindy Green shared her professional developmental journey. Look below to read her testimonial.

“I joined Devereux Arizona in 2003 as a foster care specialist. Having been previously employed with Arizona’s Child Protective Services, I developed a passion for working with foster families and the children in their care. Devereux’s mission and commitment to delivering quality foster care programming was a perfect fit. After gaining experience as a foster care specialist, and further developing my expertise and knowledge, I began serving as a mentor to new employees within my program. From this experience, I knew I wanted to develop into a leadership position. When the opportunity presented itself, I applied for, and was offered, a foster care coordinator role. While working in this position, I returned to school to pursue a graduate degree. Then, when a program manager role opened within employee learning, I jumped at the chance to apply as I truly enjoyed welcoming team members to our organization and I was ready for a new challenge. Since that time, I have held additional roles as a foster care licensing and learning program manager, and now, once again, as our center’s learning program manager. During my career with Devereux, I have received tremendous support. My supervisors and leadership team have served as my biggest cheerleaders. They have continued to assist me in finding and seizing upon opportunities to further my professional skills and knowledge. I love working for Devereux Arizona, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have found an organization that strives to make meaningful and positive difference in the lives of others — every day.”

- Mindy Green, Devereux Arizona learning program manager

Devereux Georgia’s Servant Leadership committee recently wrapped up its “52 Weeks of Compassion” campaign, which recognized team members for always putting others first.

Throughout 2022, the committee held drawings for various prizes, including spa, grocery and Visa gift cards; tickets to the zoo; and other items. In addition to the giveaways, the committee held monthly campus-wide events. The final event of the year featured a visit from a Waffle House food truck.

“Our team members are nothing short of extraordinary. All year long, they demonstrate their dedication and commitment to our organization, the youth and families we serve, and each other,” said Devereux Georgia Director of Business Development and Marketing Danielle Brock, who serves on the center’s Servant Leadership committee. “We want to thank and celebrate these inspiring individuals for their efforts. While our ‘52 Weeks of Compassion’ campaign may be over, we look forward to partnering with our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging team in 2023 to further instill a sense of community in our workplace. I encourage our staff to stay tuned - there are some surprises in store!”

Look below to view photos of the Waffle House food truck.

At Devereux, we remain committed to helping our outstanding employees hone their skills and advance in their careers. Recently, Devereux Arizona Program Manager Greg Strom shared how he has grown within the organization. Look below to read his professional development journey.

“I joined Devereux Arizona in 1999 as a direct support staff in the Group Care Program, which consisted of two group homes in the community. One was for boys and the other for girls. Previously, I had held construction and law enforcement jobs, and knew internally I needed a change. Initially, I was assigned to the boys group home, and quickly realized how much I loved the job. Eventually, I was promoted to program coordinator for the boys group home, and a short time later, I assumed the program coordinator role for the girls group home as well. Currently, I am the operations program manager for Devereux Arizona’s Brief Interventions Program. Personally, I have never been interested in titles, and do not like the limitations a title can imply. During my time with Devereux, I have always believed that by taking on a given task, regardless of our role or title, our programs and kids will benefit. My title identifies me within the organization, but it does not define what I contribute. Over the years, employees have come and gone, but there has always been a core group of people in the right positions, dedicated to positioning Devereux to be a leader in the behavioral healthcare field. Those people have served as great role models and have provided me with opportunities to learn and grow.”

- Greg Strom, Devereux Arizona program manager

Our foster parents are amazing! After participating in a survey about her experience with our organization, Devereux Arizona foster parent Jwan Toufiq sent an email to our team. Below are excerpts from that note.

“I became aware of Devereux in 2009 when a friend recommended them. My son was experiencing anxiety and I sought out counseling to help him. The services they provided truly helped my son deal with, and overcome, the anxiety that was plaguing him at the time. As a mother, I am grateful to Devereux for helping my son.

After that initial interaction, I learned about foster care. I did respite for three years and fell in love with the work, as well as working for Devereux. After that, I upgraded my license from one, to two, and finally three children full time.

Every step of the way, Devereux was there to support me. They enabled me to support myself, my son, and my family. Every member of the organization I have worked with, every person who has been on my team, has only showed me kindness, compassion and assistance. In truth, they have become like a second family.

Through all of Devereux's support and development, I am now in a position where I get to help others. I love my work and find fulfilment in doing this. Additionally, in fulfilling my duties, I only feel support from the organization and the people therein. My team is always professional, supportive, available and competent. They are the heart and backbone of Devereux, and I am ever grateful to be a part of this team.

If I could sum this up, it would be this: it has been my pleasure to serve these children, an honor to be a provider, and I am filled with pride to work for an organization like Devereux.”

- Jwan Toufiq, Devereux Arizona foster parent

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