There is nothing quite like the energy of a room full of people who have dedicated their lives to lifting others up. Recently, members of our team traveled upstate to Saratoga Springs for the New York State Association of Day Service Providers (NYSADSP) Symposium, and we returned home with our hearts full and our spirits soaring.
We are beyond thrilled and endlessly proud to share that our very own Therese Sheppard, Assistant Manager at People’s Arc of Suffolk Westhampton Beach Adult Day Hab, was officially named one of this year’s Direct Support Professional of the Year award recipients!
If you know Therese, you know she is the absolute heartbeat of our agency. With nearly 13 years of dedicated service across a remarkable range of roles—from Day Hab and reception to Assistant Manager, Program Without Walls, and evening group homes—she has touched countless lives across People’s Arc of Suffolk.
“Therese brings an unmatched level of enthusiasm to everything she does. Whether she’s greeting everyone with a bright, welcoming smile, keeping agency morale high through “Lucky Buck Fridays,” brightening someone’s day with intercom birthday announcements, or leading our Friday morning “Soul Train” dance line down the hall, she makes every single day an adventure.” -Amy Loper, Program Manager at People’s Arc of Suffolk Adult Day Hab
What makes Therese truly exceptional is her willingness to show up, roll up her sleeves, and make people feel special. She is flexible, easy-going, and never hesitates to pitch in, whether that means stepping into our group homes in the evenings or going the extra mile to ensure our programs are vibrant and fun. She cares deeply about her coworkers, and most importantly, she ensures that the people we support always feel valued, respected, and celebrated. Seeing Therese recognized on a statewide stage in Saratoga Springs was a powerful reminder of the profound impact one person can make through genuine kindness and hard work.
Please join us in giving a massive, well-deserved round of applause and congratulations to Therese! 💙
