We are happy to announce Josh Grade has been selected as the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) 2020 Idaho Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Year. Josh was chosen from a field of hundreds of outstanding nominees. The DSP of the Year award serves as a testament to those who work to support individuals in the community.
Josh has provided unwavering direct support to his client, Hayden, for over seven years.
Josh exemplifies what it means to be a DSP. Josh’s dedication to Hayden is multifaceted and includes supporting Hayden’s independence through intellectual, athletic, and lifestyle pursuits. When Hayden wanted to learn more about Judaism, Josh arranged a visit to a synagogue. When Hayden wanted to learn more about fitness, Josh took him to get a body BMI index fitness test. Josh and Hayden go to health food stores to learn about nutrition and supplements. Josh even set up a job shadow opportunity at a gym so Hayden could experience what it would be like to work at a gym.
“Hayden sees Josh like an older brother. He talks to him about girls, peer pressure, and life pressures,” Hayden’s mom said.
Hayden, like all young adults with an autism spectrum disorder, needs guidance on things that most of us take for granted. Josh helps Hayden understand human interaction at a granular level.
Josh’s person-centered approach helps Hayden gain confidence and take meaningful steps toward being a successful and independent young adult. Josh connected Hayden to the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and through that connection, Hayden completed Boise State University Prep Academy to prepare for college. Hayden is now attending the College of Western Idaho.
ANCOR will recognize Josh and other award winners from across the nation at a virtual awards ceremony Wednesday, May 6 from 4-5:30 pm EDT. Register to virtually attend here. The entire Consumer Direct Care Network would like to extend our congratulations to Josh. Congratulations Josh!!
Respectfully,
Your Consumer Direct Care Network Team