The Arc Baltimore’s Direct Support Professional Shante Gibson was recently selected to be recognized by iCareManager’s COVID-19 Essential Worker Recognition Fund. Their team called her personally to thank her for her heroic efforts, sent her a thank you and a check to show their appreciation.

Shante performs her job at an exemplary level and demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to the people she supports and her coworkers. She has been working for The Arc for over seven years.

Shante works in a home with three men who require a great deal of physical support. There are multiple staff in the home at all times, and Shante plays a critical role in acclimating staff newly assigned to the gentlemen’s home. She discerns quickly their individual needs and moves efficiently to provide key information, recommendations, or direction. Beyond this and during recent times of the pandemic, she has kept a positive attitude and can-do spirit.

“Shante is a wonderful staff and an asset to The Arc …in assisting my son with his every day needs. If she did not exist, I would try to invent her,” said a parent of a young man she supports.

“Shante is helpful, caring, resourceful, and happy to offer service no matter the task. She often performs above and beyond in her time and efforts. Even though this is not required of her, she does so willingly and cheerfully,” shared a coworker.

During these uncertain times, Shante has continued to demonstrate her dedication, leadership, and person-centered thinking. Shante ensures that the home is thoroughly disinfected and has all necessary supplies on a daily basis. She is dedicated to putting the three men she supports first in all matters of the current crisis. During the day, Shante keeps the guys engaged in a range of activities that they enjoy – walks in the community, playing board games and watching their favorite TV shows.

Furthermore, she ensures that they all maintain their vital physical therapy exercises, and she is the main point of contact at the home for the delegating nurse. She also helps with picking up evening and overnight shifts when needed. Despite these hard times, she has maintained a positive attitude and has helped train substitute staff that were not familiar with the home.

Shante is always willing to pitch in for the good of The Arc community. She makes a difference in the lives of these three men every day. She exemplifies the mission of The Arc Baltimore, and positively impacts the people we support with her skill and commitment.