Staff Reflections on Supporting Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

March 19, 2025

In honor of Developmental Disabilities Month, we celebrate the passion and dedication of our team members who work to support individuals with developmental disabilities. We asked staff in our residential services program what motivates them, what they find most rewarding, and what advice they would give to others interested in joining this fulfilling field. Their answers provide a glimpse into the meaningful work we do every day.

Meet Our Team:

  • Anthony Evangelista, Residential Supervisor
  • Aisha Gonzalez, Residential Supervisor
  • Amber Davis, Assistant Program Director
  • Nailyn Oyola Lopez, Residential Support Specialist
  • Lauren Clough, Residential Support Specialist
  • Courtney Padilla, Lead Residential Support Specialist

What Inspired You to Work in the Developmental Disabilities Field?

I want to have the ability to offer care and support to those who are not able to care and support themselves.

- Anthony

I wanted a helping career and to assist in enriching the lives of others.

- Amber

Many years ago, I saw an ad in the paper and applied. Now I love it!

- Lauren

I have always enjoyed healthcare, especially residential care. This field is very rewarding in so many ways.

- Aisha

I wanted to find a career helping people rather than generic customer service.

- Nailyn

My youngest brother was diagnosed with Autism at a very young age. I have always been one of his strongest advocates in everything he does or wants to do. Growing up with him on the spectrum, there were always therapists in and out of our house. I got to see behavioral health in a very different light than what most people see.

- Courteny

What Has Been the Most Rewarding Aspect of Working with Individuals with Developmental Disabilities?

To enhance the lives of those I serve.

- Anthony

I feel the most rewarding part of the job is seeing the pride and happiness on the individuals' faces when they accomplish a task, skill, or activity.

- Amber

I find the most rewarding part is helping individuals and seeing their faces light up when I walk into their houses.

- Lauren

The most rewarding aspect is seeing the smiles on the ladies’ faces when they complete their Individual Service Plan (ISP) goals, or complete daily activities they once considered 'hard' for them.

- Aisha

The most rewarding aspect is seeing the individuals succeed on a daily basis and gaining skills to do things on their own.

- Nailyn

I would say the most rewarding aspect of working with individuals with developmental disabilities is watching them learn to do a task or a new skill that most people do without even thinking about. It makes you realize that we take many things for granted.

- Courteny

What Message Would You Like to Send to Others Considering a Career in the Field of Developmental Disabilities Support?

The work you do will be rewarding!

- Anthony

There are days that are easy and days that you question if this is right for you. On the difficult days, you persevere and come back to work and see the excitement from the individuals when you walk in the sites, or you assist them in accomplishing a task or activity, no matter if it is big or small.

- Amber

I find I need patience and perseverance, and I find it can be quite rewarding when someone learns a new skill.

- Lauren

It is worth it!

- Aisha

This job is rewarding by helping people be able to live happy full lives.

- Nailyn

Go for it! Not every day is easy. Some days are challenging, but you will laugh most days, you will learn something new some days, but every day will be something different.

- Courteny

Please join us in celebrating the dedicated individuals who make a lasting impact every day!


At BHN, we're committed to helping individuals lead fulfilling, independent lives through our Developmental & Intellectual Disability Services. For more information, visit the link or call 413-301-WELL (9355).


Interested in joining our team and making a difference? Visit  bhnworks.org to apply today!

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