Elizabeth Wilbur, Stone Belt
1. For how long have you been a DSP?
Since October 2004.
2. When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A nurse or social worker.
3. If they made a movie about your life, what would it be called?
It Is All Uphill from Here!
4. Why did you become a DSP?
I have always cared about others. When I was five years old, I decided I wanted to be a nurse. My parents said, “You are too stubborn and temperamental. You would hurt people giving shots.” My feelings were crushed. But I continued through school.
I was one of seven children and the only one in the family who was really shy. I—well, the family—had it rough during our growing up years. I liked business classes during high school and was lucky to be accepted into a cooperative office education program. I went for several interviews and landed my first job at age 16 for the Social Security Administration.
I went to school 1/2 a day and worked in the afternoons. I was the receptionist’s assistant and also helped with claims development. I loved interacting with a diverse segment of the community.
When I was 18 years old and graduated, my office education position ended. I was upset because I felt a real connection to the retirees, individuals filing for disability, individuals from other countries who were in the states on visas, a variety of community professionals, and my coworkers.
I was trained well during my government employment. However, I went on to work at the community mental health center for five months when I was called back to federal service. I remained with the Social Security Agency for seven years, as a receptionist and back up to my coworkers. This job was a dream come true: social services!
I left after my seventh year to continue my education, working at the local university where I had hoped to receive reduced-rate tuition. But I was working with two departments and had no time to take classes.
So, my decision was to return to federal service, working for a social services agency. I ended up being accepted by the executive branch of law enforcement where I was employed or six months, then transferred to the federal Judicial branch, where I trained to work in law enforcement. I remained with the federal law enforcement agency (as a clerical and procurement specialist) for another seven years.
But I had this empty feeling—I was not fulfilling my desire to provide hands-on direct care to individuals who needed specific guidance and/or assistance to maintain active in their community. I started reviewing the newspaper job openings. I found where Stone Belt, a social service agency supporting individuals with unique needs, was hiring. I applied, was accepted for employment, and trained to assist a variety of consumers in their homes and out in the community.
In my position as a direct support professional, I am able to use my education, prior federal employment, and training/certification to make a difference in the lives of others. I take my position as a DSP seriously; I ensure the individuals I support receive adequate medical care, participate in community events, and actively work and get paid in positions providing job enrichment.
I am a key resource for assisting individuals manage their finances and live as independently as possible in their own homes. I know I am appreciated for my efforts as a DSP because the consumers I support are encouraged to relay their wants and needs.
As a DSP, I know I am just one of many DSPs and other professionals who show dedication and perseverance to making the communities we live in a better place for individuals with unique needs. It takes teamwork to ensure developmentally disabled individuals stay connected with society. A DSP’s support is integral because we are mentors, liaisons, advocates, and teachers, for people who otherwise may not have a “voice.”
5. Who is your hero in real life?
I would have to say my grandfather. He commuted for 26 years to his job as foreman for the auto industry. He became disabled when he was in his 50s and had to leave a good job.
He was quiet and unassuming, patient, and a very good non-judgmental listener. He always told me “take care of the people” and “treat others with respect.” He had many medical issues, but never let his inability to remain employed squelch his spirit and he kept a wonderful sense of humor. He showed me to always see the good in others.
I left a federal position to assist him during the last six years of his life. He remained valued being able to “do” for himself. I was able to assist him with his medical and some physical needs; he had a lot of dignity and self-respect. It was hard for him to let me assist at first; but when he realized I was merely a support, and he was still in control, he felt reassured.
I was by his side when he died at home. When he was near the end, he said “thank you.” I let him know I was the one who was blessed to be able to support him—that he taught me what giving caring was about.
6. What is your favorite part about being a DSP?
I know as a DSP, I play a role in making life a little easier for others. I wear many hats. But I can stay in the background and allow the individuals I support to really shine since I work in the supported living program and assist them in with home life as well as community activities.
I am a role model and teacher and source of support who can ensure others get what they need because of my knowledge about other social service agencies, programs, and resources to help them achieve a successful lifestyle. There are challenges along the way, but when you work for an agency which provides adequate trainings, communication, and coworkers with just as much dedication, teamwork makes being a DSP worthwhile.
We are changing the way communities view individuals who have diverse needs.
7. If you had one wish, what would it be?
[For] politicians and lawmakers to make social service resources, federal and state funds, more plentiful. Those in a position to pass legislation should have to spend time working in this job market to really see what goes on day to day in the lives of individuals with special needs.
8. What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I did not achieve becoming a nurse, I did better: I became a DSP. I love the challenges and rewards being a DSP provides. I have received my certification as a DSP. I have my prior experience with federal social service agencies, my job training with Stone Belt, and my love of people. My job responsibilities and code of ethics are constant. But, I get to tailor what services are needed from me depending upon the clients I serve day-to-day.
9. If you were a superhero, what would be your superpower?
Uncanny intuition and the ability to read through an individuals file in a speedy manner, discovering which set of goals I could assist in preparing which would best suit a client’s needs.
10. What is one thing you wish people understood about you and your work?
I may be quiet, seemingly aloof at times, which others may think means I do not care. But I am sincere, non-judgmental, and wish what is best for everyone.
Some think I am a “Pollyanna” because I see the good in others. I think this is really a gift when you focus on the good in everyone. It is too easy to criticize and find fault. Too often we forget all humans have worth, value and a contribution to make to society.
I have bad days too just like most people; I choose to live one day at a time and I always take the time with everyone to really listen to what they are saying. I also watch body language.
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