Jessica is well known for her constant encouragement to the individuals she supports.  She has an artful way of incorporating activities that teach people to be independent.  She is currently working diligently to teach a few individuals how to become responsible volunteers at both a local food bank and an assisted living center.  She has been teaching gems like the importance of arriving on time (even when you’re not getting paid), using general niceties like ‘Please’ and ‘Thank you’ (even when you’re providing the service), and always doing your best (even when you feel like giving up).

When anyone she supports opens up to her about poor choices they’ve made recently, she never judges or expresses concern, but instead focuses on teaching the potentially negative consequences that could result from that decision. Jessica is passionate about helping others to learn from their mistakes rather than to prevent them from happening.

Jessica has long-term relationships with so many different individuals, likely due to a combination of her tenure mixed with her enthusiasm to help out at a variety of settings.  She loves helping out at both day program and residential homes, because she gets to see the overlap in both areas of peoples’ lives.  This has resulted in a deeper connection with so many folks, because they recognize her and feel comfortable with her presence everywhere they go!  Recently, there was an individual who was suddenly choosing not to come to day program.  When Jessica had the opportunity to work at that person’s home, she jumped at the opportunity. When she arrived, RB said “Doh! You caught me!” and then they were able to have a meaningful conversation about what his hesitations were about coming to day program.  RB has attended day program every day since that time.

DH was really interested in dressing up for Halloween and being able to compete in a costume contest, but he was struggling with ideas.  DH knew he wanted to dress as something funny, so Jessica helped brainstorm.  They decided on a toilet bowl costume, and then Jessica assisted him with making the entire thing from scratch!  DH was thrilled at this witty and creative costume and every time someone wanted to snap a picture, DH wanted to give credit to its creator.  DH won first prize in the costume contest!

Her creativity and thoughtfulness also shined through in a recent situation when an individual who loves the Colorado Rockies was unable to attend their baseball clinic.  Jessica knew of this gentleman but did not work with him directly.  When she heard about the unfortunate circumstance, she collected lots of give-aways and souvenirs to bring back to him while at the clinic with others.   

 For two consecutive years Jessica has organized a fundraising event that is now held annually.  She found a local salon that was willing to donate profits to benefit those in our services.  She passionately volunteered her time scheduling appointments and organizing all details related to the event.  In its inaugural year, she helped raise an impressive $859.50!

She also recently corralled a group to participate in a 5k walk to support individuals with cleft palates. She offered to register anyone that was interested and influenced a spirit of excitement. At the finish line, there was a local brewery passing out their beer.  Jessica immediately requested contact information for someone from the brewery to talk about hosting a fundraiser.  Through diligence and enthusiasm, the brewery held a fundraiser several weeks later!  It seems like Jessica is always looking for something extra to do on behalf of people with disabilities.

Congratulations Jessica!