News

Washington County nonprofit celebrates staff during Developmental Disabilities Month

Washington Communities Human Services Inc., a nonprofit specializing in behavioral health, highlights its employees who serve people with intellectual disabilities throughout March in honor of Developmental Disabilities Month.

Brittni Hodinko

A three-year employee at the nonprofit, has had a passion for working with her population of consumers since she started in 2019. Her original position at the agency was a supports coordinator, but she got promoted to a supervisor role after a year.

“I am making a difference in people's lives, Hodinko said.” “I want to ensure that everyone can have the opportunity to live an everyday life and have the supports needed to succeed.”

As a supports coordination supervisor, Hodinko is able to oversee her own team of supports coordinators and manage her own caseload of consumers. Supports coordinators locate, coordinate and monitor support for individuals diagnosed with intellectual disabilities."

Ceaira Foli-Gbama

A one-year employee and supports coordinator at the nonprofit, has enjoyed becoming an advocate for people with intellectual disabilities. She stated that she likes how all her cases are different, and the job keeps her on her toes.

“I like to help and be a voice for a population that may otherwise not have a voice, nor know how to obtain resources, Foli-Gbama said.” “The best way to support a client is to learn about each individual and assess their unique situation. This is how the right supports can be put in place.”

Ryan James

A supports coordinator who has been with the agency for less than a year, has stated that his position is valuable because he is the stepping stone to help people with intellectual disabilities achieve the quality of life they deserve.

“I want to help people, James said.” “I want to make people feel like they are more than a statistic, and you need interaction to show you truly do care. There is not a more honest, charismatic population of consumers, and to be able to advocate and help them achieve a life they want is the best feeling at the end of every workday.”

Audrey Platz

A supports coordinator who has been with the agency for less than a year, has shown pride in being the change that others want to see. She has fully immersed herself into a positive role model for others to follow.

“I like to work with my consumers because while they are different and have more challenges, it shows me that we are all the same person on the inside and out, Platz said.” “I connect people with intellectual disabilities to the everyday world, freedom and a chance to be undeniably themselves."

Washington Communities Human Services will provide the entire intellectual developmental delay program staff with gift cards to further show appreciation at the end of March.