Meet Jackie Ballard

Jackie Ballard is a direct support professional (DSP). We asked Jackie to share some of her thoughts about the time he has been at the Center.

How long have you been at the Center? This is my second time being here but this time, I have been here since January, 2023.

Please describe your role at the Center? My role is teaching my participants how to be successful in life, to the best of their abilities. I take them on outings, to enjoy themselves, and have fun time with their peers, I try to teach them new skills, and how to do social motor and fine motor tasks, my participants are given choices to be happy and I try to help them be as happy as they can.

Why did you choose this field? This is not just a job for me, it is a passion of mine. I love what I do, helping people is a passion for me. I’ve had a lot of jobs, but always came back to working in this field because it’s what I love.

What advice would you give someone who is interested in working at the Center? If you don’t see the participants as being people, who have feelings, who love, who get their feeling hurt, and who get frustrated, just like you. This is not the job for you!

What is the biggest change you’ve seen over the years? That now everyone can make their own choice as to what they want to do, and more community outings.

What keeps you at the Center?  That I love working with my participants and their family, they are like family!

Anything else you’d like us to know? When people work together, your job becomes a fun place for everyone!