The Dungarvin team in Portage, Indiana, recently gathered to honor longtime employees, and even a few Rockstars, during its recent Indiana Milestone Celebration. Held at the Innsbrook Country Club in Merryville, it was an evening of socializing, dinner and a program led by Indiana leaders.
Staff members celebrating Milestone Anniversaries this year (10-, 15-, 20- and so on) were honored with plaques and speeches about their dedication and commitment to the organization’s mission of “respecting and responding to the choices of people in need of supports.”
“It was a wonderful celebration and an opportunity to recognize the dedication, compassion and teamwork our employees demonstrate every day,” said East Regional Director Julie Josephitis. “It was especially impressive to celebrate 10 employees reaching 10 years of service, one DSP marking 20 years and another DSP achieving an extraordinary 30-year Milestone Anniversary with us. Taking time to honor this remarkable commitment reminds employees that their contributions truly matter.”
Dungarvin Indiana’s annual Milestone events include an additional honor called “Rockstar” awards. “These are five outstanding staff members who thave made a difference in the lives of our individuals served,” said Dungarvin Indiana Quality Assurance Manager Amanda Starr. “They are nominated and picked by their peers and supervisors, who have seen the difference they make, along with actively engaging to enrich the lives of the people we serve.”
Several team members spoke, including Marilyn Cain, a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and Group Home Lead, who received a Rockstar award. She said she finds great joy in supporting individuals with disabilities, especially when she is able to put a smile on their faces.
“I show up for them, and engage and remind them that their needs and desires are important to me,” Marylyn said. “This award represents the commitment to the quality of care that we provide to support our individuals and that the Dungarvin model is woven into the fiber of our beings: respect, respond and choice. I’m glad to be part of this fabric.”
Another Rockstar at the celebration, DSP Amanda Cristelli, said the event was very special. “I love seeing so many proud coworkers reaching 10, 20 and 30 years. How amazing is that?! Then to be nominated as a Rockstar — I’m truly thankful and honored; I appreciate being seen. I picked the right company to work for.”
DSP Kiara Pope said she never expected to be acknowledged with a Rockstar award. “A lot of the things I do are simply out of the kindness of my heart because I genuinely care about the individuals I support and the work I do. So, being acknowledged for my effort and dedication made me feel incredibly appreciated.”
All of Dungarvin congratulates our Indiana colleagues with Milestone Anniversaries this year, as well as our Indiana Rockstars!