Victoria Ward, ANCOR DSP of the Year for Wisconsin
Every year, the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) reviews hundreds of nominations from around the country to select the best of the best Direct Support Professionals for its DSP of the Year Awards. Of this year’s record-number 544 nominees, ANCOR chose 57 winners, and Dungarvin’s Victoria Ward is one of them.
Victoria is DSP of the Year for the state of Wisconsin and is one of six Dungarvin DSPs from around the country to be honored. ANCOR presented the awards during its annual conference last week in Boston.
Victoria is known for her person-centered approach to supporting people with disabilities, such as when she
helped an individual who wanted to find meaningful employment and to be more involved in her community. “Victoria took the time to listen, understand the individual’s interests and identify a job that aligned with her strengths and preferences,” said Victoria’s supervisor and nominator Sandy Belt, a Dungarvin Wisconsin Area Director.
She offered coaching, role-playing and gentle redirection to help the individual understand personal space, effective communication and mutual respect.
Rather than encouraging the woman to take the first job she could find, Victoria worked with her to explore a variety of opportunities until they found a great fit. Then, Victoria guided her through the application and interviewing process.
“Her support helped this individual build confidence along the way,” Sandy said. “As a result, the individual not only secured a job but is excelling in the workplace, developing new skills and thriving socially. This is just one of many examples of how Victoria empowers people to define and reach their own goals.”
Victoria also is gifted in helping people develop healthy, enriching relationships. As an example, one of the people she works with began to form a friendship with another person served in her neighborhood. The individual was excited about making new connections, but struggled to set boundaries and understand social dynamics. Knowing this person’s support plan and goals, Victoria guided and empowered her to navigate the relationship independently.
“She offered coaching, role-playing and gentle redirection to help her understand personal space, effective communication and mutual respect,” Sandy said. “As a result, this individual became more confident in forming and maintaining friendships, and these connections have brought more joy and meaning to her daily life.”
Congratulations to Victoria for being recognized with an ANCOR DSP of the Year Award!