Smart, Compassionate, and Loyal – Meet Destiny!
From protect and serve to provide and care, Destiny has always had a heart for helping people. With an interest in true crime, she started college with a Criminal Justice major, her loyalty making her a good fit for law enforcement. However, the work of a Direct Support Professional captured her compassion relating to her personal experience.
Destiny shares, “I started in the Developmental Disabilities field because growing up, I helped my grandparents care for my uncle, who has a disability.” A job initially fulfilling a financial gap began to fill her heart. She explains, “Becoming a DSP at Echoing Hills was supposed to be a temporary job while I was in college, but I fell in love and have stayed since. The best part of the role is watching individuals accomplish goals and grow through new experiences.”
For Destiny, working at Echoing Hills has been a joyful new experience. She mentions, “The love the ministry has for both individuals and staff sets them apart from other organizations I’ve worked for. It’s not typical to see the founder or CEO of a company at a staff party or training, but he is there. His being there shows compassion and dedication, the same qualities that make a great DSP.”
Serving at a ministry committed to growth, Destiny has transitioned from DSP to a Home Manager in Echoing Hills of Northern Ohio. She shares, “I was blessed to have a smooth transition between roles. At the time, the previous Home Manager was able to act as my mentor, providing training and support.” Reserved and quiet, this role became an opportunity for her to branch out, expanding her knowledge and experience.
“I never saw myself as a manager.” Destiny confesses. “However, since stepping into the position, I’ve learned that effective Home Managers support staff, work alongside them, and create an environment built on trust.”
As a manager, Destiny’s responsibilities include scheduling, maintaining the individuals’ finances, and interviewing new hires. Her favorite part is advocating for staff.
Recalling her experience as a DSP, she describes, “Challenges DSPs face are real, but can be worked through. I always look forward to implementing training processes to help with their workload.” Although demanding, work in the developmental disabilities field is rewarding. “If someone is searching for a fulfilling career, shaping the way they look at life and interact with others, I would encourage them to pursue a position in the field,” she explains.
Destiny’s flexibility and her ‘go with the flow’ attitude keep her grounded and motivate her to be at her best.
“The ministry’s mission is impactful. It means stepping outside of the box and discovering what motivates individuals, helping them surpass societal norms, and achieve the life they desire.”
