The Way We Lead / July 1, 2025
ResCare Community Living Direct Support Professional Kathleen Ducharme has been Working Smart and Doing Good in Maplewood, MN.
In the home where she works, Kathy has fostered relationships that emulate a family structure. She supports her clients’ community involvement by going with them on their weekly visit to a local coffee shop where they spend time with community members. Kathy fosters the family dynamic in the home by encouraging her clients to cook together, decorate for the holidays, bake cookies, and invite friends and family over. She also makes sure that those who do not go home for the holidays have a place to celebrate.
Kathy never hesitates to approach her supervisor with ideas on including her clients in processes they have not traditionally been involved in. When one of the clients in the home passed away, Kathy facilitated the planning of the celebration of life with the other individuals. They assisted in deciding what food should be served, setting the date and time for the service, and choosing who should write and read the final words of love from them at the celebration. It was clear to all who attended that the clients were supported by Kathy in their process of grieving and hosting a memorial for all to celebrate their friend’s life.
Thank you, Kathy. You maintain a people-focused Environment in all aspects of your work. By building relationships with your individuals and supporting their pursuits both within and outside of the home, you are helping everyone around you live their best lives.
WORK SMART. DO GOOD.
Filed under: The Way We Lead