Joe Benedek - May DSP Award Recipient

The Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities is proud to recognize Joe Benedak (Intervention for Peace) as our May Direct Support Professional (DSP) Award Recipient!

Joe was nominated by Susan Dawson from Intervention for Peace. See what she had to say below:

Joe has always gone above and beyond for the gentlemen he serves. He is committed to them and has helped them with every aspect of their lives. He helps them to save money by shopping for the best deals. This has enabled them to go on trips locally and out of the state, like Disney World. He advocates for their best interest, helps them stay connected to people, values, and traditions important to their beliefs. He communicates concerns efficiently and always approaches difficult topics carefully so that people are not made to feel belittled. He is always just a phone call away and has even flown home from Florida at a moment’s notice when an important need arises for the guys.

He is a great role model for the people he supports and for others around him.

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 will 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.