Melissa works with our Community Day Service program participants as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). One of the main tasks of a DSP is to provide support and to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities achieve their full potential. DSPs wear many hats as they perform some of the functions of numerous support staff such as clinicians, service coordinators, administrators, managers, maintenance, and clerical personnel.
In August, Melissa will complete her 31st year here at UCP-Center for Disability Services! She says she initially found out about the position after seeing an ad in the paper and says her favorite thing about her job is making her adult participants happy and seeing them laugh. Melissa says when she is at work, she jumps right in and starts working to help motivate herself. Cassie Farley, Director of Adult Services, says, “One of the things I love most about Melissa is she will never allow the participant’s dignity to be in jeopardy whatsoever.”
Melissa is most proud of her longevity here at UCP-Center for Disability Services. She says her biggest inspiration is fellow staff member Carla, because of her amazing positivity. Melissa says working here has helped her grow professionally as an amazing healthcare worker. Melissa always puts the needs of others before her own, she loves her adult participants, and always does what is best for them.
Melissa supports our mission every day, and we are so extremely proud and honored to have her as a staff member! To learn more about our employment opportunities, or to get involved with UCP-Center for Disability Services, please visit our Employment page.
