Share Your Story
Grace Ryder II - A Real Team Effort
GRACE RYDER ll – A TEAM EFFORT!
I thought it was going to simply be another site visit to motivate staff on developing Individual Lifestyle Plans. Instead, it was me that was truly inspired as I listened to the staff discuss the individuals they support.
One staff after the other excitedly and compassionately told me about the individuals. The richness of their lives, their strengths, gifts, struggles and triumphs.
What struck me most was how the staff admired qualities in the individuals they support. From the perseverance they show for a physical handicap to an extreme emotional challenge, the staff gained insight into their own lives.
That’s what it is all about, reciprocal relationships. The staff at Grace Ryder is committed to assisting the individuals find opportunities to grow, to challenge them, to participate in activities they love and ultimately to lead more independent and meaningful lives.
As the meeting concluded a member of the staff stood up with a sand pail & shovels for everyone at the table and began handing them out. No one knew what it was for or what was inside.
Then the staff member began telling each person that they all brought something unique and special into the lives of the individuals at Grace Ryder. A starfish to symbolize their uniqueness, a candle to remind them to keep shining their light and an ocean candle holder to represent taking time out to rejuvenate themselves.
All so they could continue giving and receiving in the lives of the individuals. That’s teamwork.
