The Way We Lead / November 6, 2023
ResCare Community Living Instructor Maria Zarate has been Working Smart and Doing Good in National City, CA.
Maria has worked with ResCare Community Living for nearly 15 years and excels in working with clients who have unique emotional and behavioral needs. One nonverbal individual used to have a difficult time connecting with new staff or other residents in the home. Maria prioritized communicating with this individual and helping them be more at ease, even facilitating regular phone calls with the client’s family. Her consistent work resulted in the client becoming more trusting of others and comfortable in the home.
Another individual would not participate in peer activities and preferred to stay in his room away from others. After working closely with Maria, this client became more open to joining the group and developed an interest in walking rather than using his wheelchair. The persistence and positive attitude Maria exhibited helped the individual to reengage in several activities they had shown no interest in for a long time.
At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals in group homes faced several challenges, such as stay-at-home orders and interruption of day program services. During this time, Maria took initiative and coordinated Zoom class activities in collaboration with clients and staff in other homes. This allowed the individuals to stay connected with their peers through engaging activities and meeting their goals.
Thank you for your positive Attitude, Maria. You see the possibilities in every individual and provide high-quality support to assist them in reaching their full potential and living their best life.
WORK SMART. DO GOOD.
Filed under: The Way We Lead