3 minute read
November 2022 Special Needs Living Akron/Canton
COMMUNITY IMPACT Q&A: ANGELA RUSSELL
Question & Answer Session With a Community Resource! Angela Russell, Program Assistant & Scheduler at GentleBrook
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Question: Where do you work currently? Answer: I am currently working for GentleBrook at Hartville Meadows
Q: What is your job title here?
A: Program Assistant and Scheduler
Q: How long have you been employed with your current job?
A: Eight years
Q: Educational background
A: Graduate of Hoover High School
Q: What do your day-to-day job responsibilities include?
A: I am currently responsible for scheduling our daily staff. My day also includes assisting our QIDPs (Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional) with all aspects of daily living for 32 individuals with developmental and physical disabilities
Q: What is the inspiration behind why you work in this field?
A: My uncle. He was born with Cerebral Palsy and a physical disability that rendered him unable to walk.
Q: What part of your job are your most passionate about?
A: It’s indescribable to watch an individual with a disability accomplish a goal they achieved as a result of the work of our programming department and the staff.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is new to your field?
A: The job, at times, can be challenging. Our individuals make the struggles minor in comparison. Some do not walk or speak, but they don’t let that stop them from always doing their best.
Q: What is your favorite success story you have seen?
A: My uncle experienced adventures he would otherwise never be able to. He learned independence with the support of Hartville Meadows and their staff and was loved by many.
Q: If you could go back and talk to yourself at the beginning of your career, what advice would you give yourself?
A: Never judge a book by its cover.
Q: Do you feel like you’re making a difference in your job, and why?
A: Our individuals remind us every day we are making a difference by overcoming obstacles that normally would be unattainable. That shows me we must be doing something right.
Q: What advice would you give to parents in your field to help navigate?
A: Call your local JFS, talk to your SSA, reach out to the ARC of Canton. There are many of us who can help.
Q: Where do you see your industry going moving forward?
A: The job opportunities have increased greatly. Hopefully, that will continue.
Q: What has been the biggest factor in your career success?
A: Seeing our individuals healthy, safe and happy living in an environment where they can succeed means we’ve done our job.
Q: What is your favorite nonprofit organization or volunteer opportunity?
A: GentleBrook has completely changed my life. Our individuals will always be our number-one priority; without them, we would never know what a blessing truly is.
