Meet Loretta Shambrook
Loretta Shambrook is Program Specialist at the Center of Hope. We asked Loretta to share some of her thoughts about the time she has been at the Center.
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Please describe your role at the Center. I started as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in a classroom in 2024. In November 2025, I was promoted to Program Specialist. I now supervise three rooms while I am finishing my psychology degree to become a Quality Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP).
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Why did you choose this field? I chose the human services field because I’m driven by a genuine desire to support people during their most vulnerable moments. Throughout my life, I’ve seen how much of a difference it makes when someone has access to compassion, guidance, and resources, and I want to be part of providing that support. I’m drawn to work that allows me to advocate for others, promote fairness, and help individuals overcome barriers that stand in the way of their well‑being.
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What makes you excited to come to work each day? Knowing that I am making a difference in someone’s life, whether small or big, is what makes me excited to come to work each day.
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What has been your biggest surprise since you started working at the Center? The biggest surprise since I started working at COH is the feeling of purpose and happiness that this career has given me.
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What advice would you give someone who is interested in working at the Center? Working at the Barbara Olson Center of Hope is a great fit for someone who values compassion, patience, and meaningful connection, because the environment is supportive, person‑centered, and focused on helping individuals with developmental disabilities build independence and confidence. Individuals need to be strong communicators, adaptable, and genuinely motivated to make a positive impact through daily skill‑building, community activities, and consistent encouragement.
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Anything else you’d like to add? Out of all the different jobs and workplaces I have been in, COH is by far the best place to work. The staff here are all supportive and do their best to work as a team.