There is Always an Opportunity to Learn And Grow

Carmen Cruz, a long-tenured staff at Liberty ARC, believes for herself and her coworkers no matter the length of time working in direct care, it is always beneficial to go through a refresher course in order to continue providing top-quality care for the people they support.

This drive lead Carmen, an Assistant Hab Specialist 1, the Activities Coordinator, and an employee of the agency for 18 years, to enroll in the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) E-Badges Academy as part of Liberty ARC’s second cohort.

“I wanted to participate because I thought what a great way to better myself in our field of direct support work,” Carmen said. “This course is also a great reminder of how important it is to provide the best care and to be caring, compassionate, and understanding.”

As a member of NADSP, Liberty ARC provides the opportunity for direct care staff to earn credentials through the E-Badges program. E-Badges are specific online learning modules with a comprehension component and a practical application component. Each E-Badge earned challenges the DSP taking the module to expand their knowledge and apply it in situations with the people they support.

The E-Badges Academy leads to a nationally-recognized credential with three different levels (DSP-I, DSP-II, DSP-III). NADSP is one of the nation’s leading Direct Support Professional (DSP) associations, promoting excellence in direct support work.

Carmen completed the course in two and a half month, receiving DSP-III credentialing.

Carmen said with her experience working with people with disabilities in both the day program and residential for so long was an advantage when completing the courses as the answers were based on her extensive knowledge and daily duties at Liberty ARC.

“To my fellow coworkers I say try it, and challenge yourself by taking a chance to better yourself. You might remember along the way why you chose this field to begin with and why you want to better yourself not only for you, but for the people we provide care for,” Carmen said.

Click HERE to discover what job opportunities await at Liberty ARC!