TWO WEST BAY RESIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES RECEIVE AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE

PRESS RELEASE: For Immediate Release June 1, 2016

CONTACT: Gloria Quinn, ext. 354

gmquinn@westbayri.org

TWO WEST BAY RESIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES RECEIVE AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE

West Bay Residential Services, a nonprofit dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981, is pleased to announce that two employees have recently gained statewide recognition. Both staff members will be honored at West Bay’s annual Recognition Ceremony event this summer.

Andrea Winslow, a Direct Support Professional with 20 years of experience in the field, was named Rhode Island’s 2016 Direct Support Professional of the Year by the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), a national trade association representing more than 1,000 private providers of community living and employment supports to over 600,000 individuals with disabilities. The award is given to those who personify the values of ANCOR’s National Advocacy Campaign, which works to ensure a well-trained and sustainable direct support staff. Nominees are judged on the work they have done to build social networks, substantive community participation and advocating for the people they serve.

Susan Raposo, West Bay’s Day Activities Coordinator, was awarded the 2016 Excellence in Service Award from the Community Provider Network of Rhode Island, an agency which represents 23 private providers of supports and services to 3,500 people with developmental disabilities. Susan has been with West Bay for 22 years and has held several positions during her tenure, including Direct Support Staff and Case Manager. She was nominated for her contributions to enhancing the quality of life of the individuals West Bay supports through community integration via new partnerships, volunteer positions and community integrated employment. Raposo has a unique ability to match people’s strengths and interests with community opportunities. Additionally, she has inspired her staff teams to do the same.

West Bay Residential Services, Inc. is a private, non-profit agency providing services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981. West Bay promotes independence and community inclusion through, residential, shared living, day and employment services across the state of Rhode Island. West Bay is committed to an individualized, person-centered approach that offers opportunities for self-expression and choice to all persons served.

For more information, please call 738-9300, or visit our website at www.westbayri.org.