Celebrating Direct Support Professionals Week: Part 1

Spotlighting the Exceptional DSPs Who Make a Difference

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the heart and soul of the Advocacy and Resource Center, making a profound impact on the lives of those they support every day. In honor of DSP Week, we’re thrilled to spotlight some of the amazing individuals on our team. Let’s get to know a little more about them and the passions that drive their dedication!

1. Angela: A Grandmother and Christmas Enthusiast

Angela joined the ARC family in October 2023 and has brought warmth and joy ever since. Here are five things to know about her:

• She is a proud grandmother of four: Mason, Allie, Remington, and Brandon. She cherishes the special love that comes with having grandkids.
• Christmas is her favorite time of the year. Her tree is up by October 1st, and she keeps a cabinet filled with her beloved snowman figurines year-round.
• Angela plays softball in a women’s fun league, where she shines as a pitcher.
• After undergoing gastric bypass, she lost 175 pounds in just one year.
• She is incredibly thankful for her circle of friends, her family, and her rewarding job. Angela learns something new every day and values the individuals who have changed her life.

2. Paytyn: A Future Nurse with a Passion for Helping Others

Since starting at ARC in July 2018, Paytyn has been an inspiring presence. Here are five things to know about her:

• She loves to travel and has visited every state on the East Coast, Mexico, and Canada. Her dream destinations include Italy and Bali.
• Paytyn adores her Golden Retriever, Myla, and enjoys taking her on walks around the neighborhood and nearby trails.
• She is in her final year of nursing school and aspires to be a labor and delivery nurse.
• She’s passionate about helping people and making a difference in their lives.

3. Melanie: A Hardworking Outdoors Lover

Melanie, who joined ARC in July 2017, is a dedicated and adventurous DSP. Here’s what you should know about her:

• She has two horses, Spartan and Buddy, and has loved riding since the age of seven.
• Melanie enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, camping, and swimming during her free time.
• She is a mother to three children, aged 11, 8, and 6.
• A true workaholic, Melanie balances two full-time jobs, including working at High Peaks Dental as a receptionist and AR representative.
• She loves traveling to new places, ensuring her family takes a vacation somewhere different each year.

4. Kourtney: A Dedicated Mom and Coffee Lover

Kourtney became part of ARC in July 2023 and has quickly become an integral part of the team. Here are five fun facts about her:

• She is the proud mom of a two-year-old son.
• Kourtney grew up in Beekmantown and remains connected to her community.
• Dunkin' Donuts coffee is a daily must for her—she can’t go a day without it!
• In her downtime, she enjoys relaxing and watching Netflix.
• A self-proclaimed neat freak, Kourtney takes pride in keeping things clean and organized.

5. Evan: A Multi-Talented Musician and DSP Veteran

Evan has been with ARC since September 2015 and is an incredible asset to the team. Here are five things you should know about him:

• He has been part of the Advocacy and Resource Center for nearly nine years, spending most of his time at Turner Road.
• Evan is a musician who plays guitar in a band called Lazarus Vector and owns a piercing business called PUNKture Piercing.
• Inspired by his mother, who also worked in this field, Evan knew from a young age that he wanted to become a DSP.
• He and his children are die-hard New York Rangers fans.
• Evan has a passion for collecting horror memorabilia and movies.

6. Camille: A Runner and Rising Leader

Camille joined ARC in November 2023 and has already made a big impression. Here’s what you should know about her:

• She’s training for her first marathon, aiming to complete it before the snow falls.
• Camille comes from a large family of 12 siblings—she’s the sixth youngest!
• She’s engaged to be married next year.
• Fishing is one of her favorite pastimes, and she enjoys catching bass in Lake Champlain, Tupper Lake, and the Saranac Chain.
• Within just five months of starting, Camille was promoted to Supervisor—a role she loves.

We are so grateful for the dedication, talent, and care that our DSPs bring to the Advocacy and Resource Center every day. Their hard work changes lives, and we’re honored to celebrate them during Direct Support Professionals Week!