Kerr Team Working from the Heart


Left to right: Jeanne Farr, Rome Hamel, Chris Krenk, Lynda Burks and Jackie Jones.

Each year, the Oregon Rehabilitation Association (ORA) presents the “Works of Heart” award to extraordinary direct support professionals working with people who have developmental disabilities throughout the state.
 
Three Albertina Kerr employees were recognized this year for their exceptional work supporting and empowering families, adults and children in the state of Oregon.
 
Congratulations Jackie Jones (Lindenbrook), Lynda Burks (Blanton) and Rome Hamel (Donahoe). Your individual efforts and dedication continue to empower people who face mental health challenges and developmental disabilities.
In addition to ongoing support, each goes out of their way to make every day special for the people and specific programs that they provide services to.

Lynda, who has worked for the same group home for more than 17 years, develops meaningful relationships with all the people she works with. An inspiration to fellow coworkers, Lynda has thrown themed birthday parties including a Wizard of Oz birthday bash complete with handmade ruby red slippers. But birthdays aren’t the only day Lynda makes everyone feel special. She’s handmade coordinating hampers, bed skirts and curtains for each bedroom and even makes sure the people in the home independently choose what to eat, wear and do for the day. Lynda explains, “I’m really just someone who loves what they do. For every one thing I do, there are 15 ways that I am rewarded. If you invest in the people you serve, the reward is 100 fold.”

Jackie, who has also worked at Kerr for more than 17 years, builds close relationships as well. For one person in particular, Jackie has given support in developing financial skills, independence and even a healthier lifestyle. Jackie has single-handedly assisted this person in living a smoke-free life. She believes strongly in independence and says, “We get to work and help people communicate better and live more independent lives. My favorite thing about my job is coming to work and seeing how happy the guys are to see me.”

Rome has worked at Kerr for more than 20 years and even supported the same individual for much of that time. As a direct care professional, Rome understands the importance of consistency. His continual presence in this person’s life has been a major contributing factor in the success of a self-determined life. Taking his dedication to work a step further, Rome has helped plan and even taken this person on vacation to Hawaii! Rome says, “Directly working with a person’s life affects my life.” He sees the benefit of community inclusion and says, “Community integration gives people with developmental disabilities an opportunity to get out in the world. I get to experience the world through his eyes, I share in his joy.”

Thank you all for your service and continued commitment to Albertina Kerr – you’ve certainly earned your wings!