In honor of Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, Woods Services, 40 Martin Gross Drive in Langhorne, held Woods Employee Recognition Week Sept. 14-20 to celebrate its 1,600 employees who work to advance the quality of life and standard of care for individuals with disabilities. Woods also educated the community about job opportunities.
Throughout the week, “thank you” events and activities recognized the contributions of all Woods employees, including direct care employees, recreational staff, an on-site medical team and administrators, in providing care for children and adults with complex medical needs and intellectual and developmental disabilities served by Woods.
A Wellness and Benefits Fair for employees took place Sept. 14, and a Midnight Walk and Goody Bag Delivery for staff who work overnight took place Sept. 15. There were also raffles and prizes throughout the week, including the distribution of 1,600 Woods logo vests, as well as gift cards, water ice and other surprises. Today, all staff will be greeted with Applause Crews at the start of each shift to end the week of appreciation.
In addition, Woods is reaching out to the community to educate job seekers about the opportunities available at Woods, including the launch of a video highlighting the work of Woods’ team of professionals, found here.
“We are grateful every day for the dedicated Woods employees who provide critical supports to our Woods community,” said Tine Hansen-Turton, Woods president and CEO. “This year has brought many challenges as we all work together to keep residents and staff safe during the pandemic, and Woods Employee Recognition Week is one way we can express our overwhelming gratitude to our team.
“We are excited to spotlight the positive impact of Woods professionals, whether that is providing exceptional assistance with activities of daily living, building new and creative spaces for outdoor recreation, helping learners adapt to new school protocols, or staffing vaccination clinics on our campus for residents, employees and families.
“We will also be educating the community about the rewarding jobs available at Woods to assist individuals residing at the Woods campus, living in nearby community homes, or participating in day schooling and daily supports provided by Woods.”
Direct Support Professional Recognition Week was founded by the American Network of Community Options and Resources to raise awareness of direct support professionals’ role in helping people with disabilities be part of the community.
