Beaver County Rehabilitation Center (WIN Services) Employment Specialist John Palmer, of Conway, brings exceptional insight, compassion and creativity to his daily interaction with people with disabilities. On Wednesday, June 12, 2024 John was recognized by the Beaver County Commissioners during a ceremony at the Beaver County Court House for being chosen from over 500 nominees as PA Direct Support Professional of the year. John received the award last April in Sante Fe, New Mexico from ANCOR Connect, the leading voice in Washington for community-based disability support providers.
John’s recognition ceremony at the Court House was attended by 62 people, including members of his family, individuals with disabilities, coworkers and BCRC Board members. BCRC Executive Director Lesley Hallas says, “BCRC is so incredibly proud of John. We are thrilled to celebrate his award and the significant part John plays in the growth of people with disabilities.”
Commisioners Dan Camp, Tony Amadio and Jack Manning expressed their pride in Palmer’s accomplishment and praised his efforts on behalf of people with disabilities in Beaver County. Manning stated, “BCRC is an exceptional organization with exceptional staff that serve a very exceptional group of people.”
John provides habilitation services through WIN Services, a subsidiary of BCRC. According to WIN Services Director Jonni Kichta, “John is dedicated to enhancing the lives of all people with disabilities, and he is exceptionally successful with people who are struggling. He steps up to offer interventions and services to the most challenged individuals, demonstrating that he will not give up. “ John looks beyond the surface to find the meaning behind each person’s actions. He has special handshakes, hello routines and costumes for every occasion. He can determine a person’s mood by their posture or facial expression, and he provides just the right support.“
John understands BCRC participants and meets their needs, whatever they may be. Ms. Kichta witnessed the growth in an individual with minimal speech when John encouraged him to express his thoughts and wishes as a self-advocate. To another person John is a “father-figure,” to another a mentor and others friend, confidant, cheer leader, etc.
Diane Beastrom, President of ANCOR’s Board of Directors was “blown away” by John’s nomination. She says, “I cannot think of a more deserving professional to honor as they truly exemplify what it means to see, appreciate, and value the people we are fortunate enough to support.’
John and WIN Services Director Jonni Kichta attended the awards ceremony sponsored by ANCOR Connect. More than 1000 people attended the conference from all over the world. John received a plaque, gift card and recognition in the digital magazine, Recognizing Excellence.
John is grateful for the recognition that he has received and the support of Ms. Kichta, BCRC Executive Director Lesley Hallas and the administration of Beaver County Behavioral Health. He says, “This has been the highlight of my career and possibly my entire life. It’s great to come to work each day and be a part of making other people smile.”
BCRC’s Executive Director feels that. “John’s recognition is wholeheartedly deserved, and his commitment and dedication to individuals and families in the Intellectual Disabilities/Autism Spectrum community is exemplified in his work daily. John’s recognition also serves to highlight the significance of Direct Support Professionals (DSP), a critical profession that is too often overlooked and undervalued. John exemplifies the best in this profession, and our participants are blessed to benefit from his passion and skill.”