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<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nThinking back to over a year ago, I would have never thought I’d be serving folks with Down syndrome in the manner I do now but I am certainly happy for this opportunity and all the wonderful experiences along the way. I firmly believe in the motto “things happen for a reason” and I can certainly say coming into my GiGi’s role was for a purpose. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’ve met me you’ve probably heard my story as it is a huge part of my being and drives my daily work as a Site Manager and DSP (Direct Support Professional). So bare with me while I share once again surely not for the last time! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While working at UCP I had the honor of being a Program Coordinator and Supervisor to many individuals with different abilities and personalities. One such individual was, as he is now known “Ambassador Clark”. At this point in my career, I had only had the opportunity to work with few individuals with Down syndrome in a round about way until Clark and I crossed paths. <\/p>\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nClark worked at one of the job sites I supervised for and was stubborn as all get up, challenging my every direction but taking it all in so he could show me he could do anything I had presented him with in his own way. Clark was also one of the most outgoing and humorous guys as well, keeping his fellow co-workers on task and reminding them of their safety skills of which he learned from one of our many self-advocacy trainings. All along the way Clark had let me know of this magical place he called GiGi’s and how I’d just love it their. I brushed it off unknowingly of what my future were to hold and kept trucking along providing vocational support and direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One day towards the end of the pandemic I came to the realization I needed a change and was committed to continuing my service within the disability culture field. So I opened Zip-recruiter and low and behold GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego was looking for a Site Manager. My calling had been met. I took a moment and a huge breath and applied for the position. A couple days later I received a call to interview. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once the interviews were complete, I felt a sense of relief but a great calmness that my change was for the better and that feel resonated with me. After accepting the Site Manager position, I decided to take myself out for a celebratory brew. Yes, those who know me know a good brew is also part of my story…ha When leaving the restaurant, the not so sunny San Diego sky’s decided to open to reveal a double rainbow. Just another sign that I was making the right move. <\/p>\n\n\n\n August 31, 2023 was my last day with my previous employer, September 1, 2023 was my first day of employment with GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego and I have yet to look back. This year has been filled with loads of new meetings, learnings and growing and I couldn’t be more thankful for taking my “Best of All” step as change is not one of my strong suits. <\/p>\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n