Dungarvin’s Elaine Bahe’s Advocacy and Mentorship Land Her as ANCOR DSP of the Year for New Mexico

When Elaine Bahe began her first job as a direct support professional (DSP) in New Mexico, she thought it would be an interesting position to try short term, maybe for a couple of weeks or a month. Her sister-in-law had encouraged her to apply, but Elaine hadn’t considered a career as a DSP. However, fate stepped in. The first month turned into a year, then five years, then 10 … and now, more than two decades later, Elaine still loves her job.

“I think after a couple of years I just fell in love with the people I worked with; one in particular,” Elaine said. “I mean, I couldn’t leave her. I’m still working with her today – 22 years later.”

That genuine love for and dedication to the people she supports makes Elaine an excellent DSP, now Residential Coordinator, which is why ANCOR (American Network of Community Options & Resources) chose her as the New Mexico DSP of the Year. She accepted the award, along with six other Dungarvin peers, during the ANCOR Connect ’25 conference in San Diego, April 7-9.

A kind, patient woman who projects a quiet confidence, Elaine supports Frances, who has intellectual and developmental disabilities. The bedrock of Elaine’s approach is that DSPs are not “caregivers,” which is what she tells the new Dungarvin DSPs she mentors.

“You’re going to be their teacher. You’re going to teach them to be independent. And for some individuals, that may never happen, but it’s little steps – you’re going to take little steps to teach them how to be independent,” Elaine said.

Using that strategy, she has guided Frances on a journey to develop better communication and emotional regulation skills. Introducing Frances to new activities and interests, particularly a self-employment venture in jewelry making, made a tremendous difference in her personal development.

“Elaine approached this support as a job coach to help Frances create an inventory of beautiful, beaded jewelry … which she has successfully sold through a Facebook page,” said Elaine’s supervisor and the person who nominated her, Yolanna Eriacho, a Dungarvin Program Director.

In addition to supporting Frances, Elaine advocates for people with disabilities and their right to be part of the larger community, which hasn’t always been easy. “She met with resistance from community members and establishment owners who thought people with disabilities needed to be kept out of sight, and not heard from, Yolanna said.

But due to Elaine’s patience and persistence, people in the community have become much more welcoming and understanding.

Dungarvin is incredibly proud of Elaine for the excellent support, advocacy, and leadership she brings to Frances and her team in New Mexico. Congratulations, Elaine!