DSP Award Recipient - Rachiel Welsh
The Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities is proud to recognize Rachiel Welsh as the Portage DD Direct Support Professional (DSP) Award Recipient for the month of March 2023. Rachiel is an Independent Provider and was nominated by Portage DD SSA David Colgrove.
Here is what David had to say about Rachiel:
Ms. Welsh is an Ohio Shared Living provider for her son. She has done an amazing job supporting him and has provided him with countless opportunities to explore his interest, be part of his community and grow as a person.
She has also volunteered to help other families in regards to becoming providers for their loved ones. This is especially helpful during the nationwide staffing crisis that has made the DSP shortage worse.
Rachiel recently agreed to open her home to a woman who lost both her parents in the span of three months. When she discovered this person loved Christmas and Christmas decorations, she had her house decorated top to bottom, including the person’s new bedroom, like a winter wonderland. She had gone out and purchased new bedding and towels for her. She signed her up for a bowling league and a “Night To Shine”. She has gone above and beyond in regards to helping this person feel welcome and providing emotional support and comfort. Her kindness represents the best of what DD services can offer the people we are her to support.
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Month Award is for those staff who provide direct support or direct services for individuals served throughout Portage County.
This award is an opportunity to nominate someone who has gone above and beyond to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities while also promoting independence and inclusion.
Individual award recipients will receive public recognition from Portage DD and be promoted on our social media channels. Award recipients will also later be considered for Direct Support Professional of the Year.
All nominations will be kept on file for review and consideration for a period of 12 months after initial submission.