Every March, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities and its partners collaborate to lead Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). The annual campaign aims to raise awareness about the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life.

At BHN, we aim to provide support to individuals, families, and communities to improve the quality of life for those who face developmental and behavioral challenges. We are dedicated to spreading awareness and promoting inclusion in every possible way. 

We extend our appreciation to each and every one of BHN's Developmental Services staff members for their dedication and support to our team and the individuals we serve! Be proud of what you do and the difference you make! 

The 2024 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month theme is "A World of Opportunities." This celebrates individuals who are working together to remove obstacles and create a world where everyone can succeed. We are proud to highlight Amonie's recent promotion to Assistant Program Director in BHN's Developmental Service Department.

Those Who Serve: Amonie

Amonie started working at Behavioral Health Network while pursuing a business and human resources degree at Bay Path University. She applied for a job in a residential home for developmental services, and when she visited the site, she was immediately drawn to the residents. Within a year of starting the position, she “could see herself doing this forever."

After completing her degree, Amonie’s supervisor recommended her for a lead staff position. Three months later she took the position as residential supervisor and managed a home. Starting her career with BHN while a college student, Amonie attributes learning many “adulting skills” to her position. "My job helped me better understand menu planning, budgeting, insurance, scheduling, and how to effectively communicate, which are skills I can use at work and personally. Having a safe place with supportive supervisors allowed me to learn and grow."

Amonie then joined BHN’s Career Pathways Program, which helped her figure out what she wanted to do next. "It just seemed right to try to grow where I already was instead of venturing out," she said. Amonie was motivated to apply for the vacant Assistant Program Director position for which she was hired. She described what she enjoys most about her position, “Working with individuals can be an emotional experience. No day is the same and I’m constantly learning new things. Assisting people to participate in outings and activities really fills my cup. The happiness that the people served experience from community inclusion is contagious and brings joy to everyone involved.

Anytime I’m working with an individual on a direct care level I am reminded how rewarding it is. Sometimes it's simple things like helping them have fun and go to the movies or plan cool outings to the aquarium. Other times it's seeing the growth in an individual via behaviors or even just tolerance of medical care."

Amonie says along with the rewards, the job can also be challenging. "Managing the mental and emotional well-being of the people in the home, the staff, and myself can be difficult - especially when someone passes away."

Every person in this department is passionate about the individuals we work with. It’s not always easy, and some days you want to cry, but the people served need and deserve caring staff and supervisors, so you get up and keep going for them."

Learn more about BHN's Developmental & Intellectual Disability Services.