Ammi, DSP

What made you want to get into this field?

I think what initially attracted me to this field was my desire to help make a difference in a way that would be drastically noticeable. However, over time, what I began to realize was that some of the more notable differences that we make in individuals’ lives aren’t always necessarily quantifiable.

What is an average day for you at The Jewish Board?

I work overnight as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), and the individuals we serve are typically all asleep when I arrive. I check prior shift summaries if I can’t speak directly with any staff members being relieved in order to acquaint myself with any outstanding concerns or any other issues that I may need to know about. After that, I initiate bed checks, which are carried out hourly and documented as well. Then we move on to a massive load of clean laundry that needs to be meticulously sorted and returned to its respective owners.

We spend the rest of the shift tending to the needs of Individuals who may wake up to use the bathroom or who may have trouble sleeping and just want to hang out for a bit. In the morning, other DSPs arrive and help us facilitate getting individuals dressed, fed, and medicated before leaving for their day programs.

What is your favorite part of the work you do?

I’d say that the best part of the work I do is the level of growth that I was able to witness first-hand over the course of many years in the field. There’s something very satisfying about seeing a shift in terms of inclusiveness and adaptability and knowing that you had a role in that change.

What of The Jewish Board’s core values resonates with you the most?

Of all the core values espoused by The Jewish Board, I think that the one about embracing each other’s differences resonates with me the most. I tend to view diversity as a strength, and this core value reflects the sort of inclusiveness that I would hope to see in the world.

You spend so much time caring for others; what’s one way you practice self-care?

One of my favorite ways to practice self-care is taking time out of my schedule to do the things that I love to do. Whether it be cycling or street photography, I value my downtime just as much as my work.

What’s the last song you listened to?

The last song that I’ve listened to is ‘Don’t Dream it’s Over‘ from an 80’s band called Crowded House. I can’t manage to get it out of my head as it’s very infectious!