Meet staff member Abbilyn Fishe
Abbilyn Fishe is a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at the Center of Hope and oversees the art program. In this month’s Q&A, she shares a few reflections on her time at the Center and what she enjoys most about supporting participants.
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Please describe your role at the Center. I oversee the art program. I teach the participants a variety of art mediums and techniques. We create unique art projects that can be sold, giving participants the opportunity to earn their own income while building confidence and independence. Art also serves as a form of self-expression and sensory therapy, so I do my best to provide a supportive environment that allows participants to explore their creativity.
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Why did you choose this field? I chose this field because I have always been very passionate about art, and I love all of the participants here. I worked here in the past and when I heard that this position became available, I knew it would be such a rewarding job for me.
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What makes you excited about coming to work each day?The participants are what makes me excited to come to work every day. Seeing their enthusiasm and creativity makes this such a fulfilling job.
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What has been your biggest surprise since you started working at the Center? One of the biggest surprises has been seeing how creative and talented the participants are. Even though I teach art class, they teach me just as much through their imagination and creativity.
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What advice would you give someone who is interested in working at the Center? I would encourage anyone interested in working at the Center to practice patience and really take the time to get to know each participant as an individual. Everyone has a unique personality, strength, and interests. They come here to have fun, feel support, and be understood. Building those relationships makes the work even more meaningful.
