Meet Cecily Storm

Cecily Storm is a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional and has been at the Center of Hope for six years. We asked Cecily to share some of her thoughts about the time he has been at the Center.

Please describe your role at the Center. I am case manager for my area, which includes three classrooms and approximately 24 participants. I love advocating for my individuals and exploring ways with them on how to live their best lives! I am also an “Art Teacher”, in which I have created an art program for participants who love art and want to find their signature art style. After creating their masterpieces, they get a chance to sell their art to the public at different COH events.

Why did you choose this field? I would like to say I knew what getting “into this field” was all about at first, but I didn’t. I have always loved being a service to people, bettering lives, and advocating for those who can’t themselves. The bigger question lies “Why does one stay in this field?” And for me—it’s because of the participant, the laughter, the challenges, and the unpredictable chaos that comes with it all.

What advice would you give someone who is interested in working at the Center?  “Every Artist was First an Amateur”—is a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote hanging up in my office. Couldn’t be more true, about when I first started here at COH as a brand new DSP. Stay open-minded and passionate, have fun, and ask questions. No one will ever be able to completely describe what it means to work at Center of Hope, because every day can be different. If you want somewhere boring and inactive, this is not the place for you.

What is the biggest change you’ve seen over the years? The Center of Hope offers more cultural classes, person-centered activities, and group outings/activities than ever before; however, the biggest change I have seen—is within myself. This field has a funny way of changing your heart for the better.

 What keeps you at the Center? The love of what I do with my participants, co-workers, and experience I have gained so far. I also love that I have been able to and continue to participate/expand in personal passions of mine, like Art and Advocating.