Dungarvin Minnesota is proud to announce it has two finalists in the ARRM Cares 2026 Awards. Residential Program Coordinator Mabel Massaquoi is one of 10 finalists for the ARRM Cares Award and Mental Health Specialist Sonja Pirmantgen is one of four finalists for the ARRM Rising Star Award.
These annual awards, conducted by the nonprofit Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota (ARRM), recognize Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who demonstrate a commitment to providing quality services to people living with disabilities. From the pool of 14 finalists, the organization selects six ARRM Cares winners and two Rising Star winners each year. Rising Star finalists are professionals with less than three years of experience in the field.
Mabel Massaquoi
“There are so many outstanding DSPs out there doing such important work,” said Anna Hegland, Dungarvin Minnesota Senior Director and Immediate Past President of ARRM’s Board of Directors. “There are some who go above and beyond, and I appreciate that ARRM takes the time to recognize these amazing professionals each year. Thanks to our wonderful DSPs, and their supervisors, who wrote thoughtful nominations on their behalf.”
Mabel has supported people in the same Dungarvin group home for many years, gaining the trust of persons served and her team members, said her nominator Denise Johnson, a Dungarvin Minnesota Operational Manager.
“She consistently leads by example, completing the same tasks that she expects from other staff. Mabel takes the time to listen to each person she serves and chooses the best course of action, even if it is not the easiest one,” Denise said.
Mabel said she is honored that the dedication she brings to her work has been recognized by ARRM and Dungarvin. “It’s not just about me; it’s a reflection of the amazing individuals I support, the colleagues I work alongside, and Dungarvin, which encourages person-centered care.”
Sonja Pirmantgen
Meanwhile, Sonja is known for her ability to remain calm, neutral and supportive, even during challenging situations, said nominator Taylor McCullough, a Dungarvin Mental Health Program Director.
“Sonja places the rights, dignity and well-being of each individual at the center of every decision, while maintaining high ethical and professional standards,” Taylor said. “She actively listens, incorporates personal preferences into service planning and modifies support to ensure services are meaningful and motivating.”
Sonja said she feels humbled by the ARRM Rising Star Award recognition. “I never come to work expecting recognition; I simply want to make a positive difference in the lives of the people I support. To know that others see the passion and dedication I bring to my work is deeply meaningful. This honor reminds me that even small acts of compassion, patience and encouragement can have a lasting impact.”
ARRM will officially recognize all of its finalists during the its annual conference, July 15 at Mystic Lake Center in Prior Lake, Minnesota. Winners will be announced Sept. 14, each receiving a $1,000 award.