When Angela started at New Hope Community on December 6, 2010, she came in as a relief DSP. Within two months, she was a full-time staff member with, unbeknownst to her at the time, an ever-broadening horizon at her feet.

More than a decade later, she’s now a Residential Coordinator. While her journey wasn’t exactly linear, it was full of lessons, self-realizations, and a passion for person-centered care that led her to her role today.

“I started as a relief DSP in December and was full-time by February,” Angela recalls. “A year or two later, I became a Senior DSP II, then Assistant House Manager. I even self-demoted at one point to go back to school.”

Stepping away only confirmed what she already knew, “I missed it. I realized this is what I want to do.”

Angela returned, worked her way back up, and was eventually offered a House Manager position on campus, something she hadn’t yet considered for her career.

“When they told me the job was on campus, I wasn’t sure if I should take it. I was comfortable off campus.”

That quickly changed. “I came to campus, and I absolutely loved it. I would never go back. They’d have to pry me out of here.”

Angela says campus life deepened her understanding of connection and communication.

“The individuals here require more physical assistance, but the bond feels closer. Off campus, someone can tell you what they need. On campus, you really have to learn them. You build that bond in different ways. It’s special.”

In April 2022, she was promoted to Residential Coordinator, supporting multiple programs and staff. While it’s her favorite role yet, she credits her time as a DSP for shaping her leadership.

“Being a DSP prepares you in ways you don’t even realize. You’re on the front lines, handling emergencies, learning not to panic. Now, when I guide staff through tough situations, I’ve been there.”

For DSPs considering leadership, she shares: “Short-term sacrifice for long-term success… Growth is possible here. Don’t give up. The people matter. Their opinions matter. Their feelings matter. This isn’t just a job.”