What does it take to be a DSP at Langton Green? Our Direct Support Professionals receive extensive training and mentoring to grow professionally and provide customized supports to the individuals in our care. In addition to training for new skills, many DSPs say it takes a “caring heart” to make a difference in the lives of the individuals they support.
“To work in this field, you need patience, a caring heart, and everything else can be taught,” says Patricia Crowner, who joined Langton Green in 2014 and grew into her current position, senior program manager. “To work here, you need patience, time, and care. You have to have a heart to work here. You can’t just come here for a job. You have to have a heart for the work. It’s a lovely place to work.”
“The qualities needed for this kind of work are patience, empathy, and the ability to listen. It’s important to be a giver because you’re always giving of yourself.” -Sherri Simms, DSP
Sherri Simms, DSP, joined Langton Green more than 30 years ago!
Sherri Simms, a highly experienced DSP, agrees. “I would say the qualities needed for this kind of work are patience, empathy, and the ability to listen. It’s important to be a giver because you’re always giving of yourself,” says Simms, who joined Langton Green in 1994—more than 30 years ago. “I’ve been here for 30 years. I enjoy what I do. It’s been very rewarding, and I’ve learned a lot.” Simms has held different positions at Langton, but she finds providing direct care to be the most fulfilling.
“Working here has kept me grounded. I’ve learned not to take things for granted. The individuals I work with have taught me a lot,” she adds. Sometimes she is surprised by what she learns: “The people here taught me about nature—like knowing all the flowers. We’d go on drives and they could name every flower we passed. It was amazing to me!”
At Langton Green, DSPs make a difference every day providing support and a caring community to the individuals in our care. “Staff members at Langton Green are dedicated, caring, and patient. Our jobs are not always easy, but when we work together as a team, we can figure anything out,” says Karen Chase, Chief Service Officer, who works with families and residents.
“Families looking for a home for their loved ones want a place where they feel safe, included, and surrounded by people they enjoy. We look for the same qualities in our staff. We want them to be caring, kind, and form meaningful connections with the residents. Our goal is to find the best fit for both staff and residents so that everyone feels at home,” says Chase.
“To work in this field, you need patience, a caring heart, and everything else can be taught.” -Patricia Crowner, senior program manager.
