Progress Wins Big At Recent Tennessee Disability MegaConference

Five Progress employees recognized for their services to adults with intellectual disabilities

NASHVILLE, TN... At the recent Tennessee Disability MegaConference, five employees of Progress received awards in recognition of their services to individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Vernon Brown, a companion to two men supported by Progress, was awarded the Direct Support Professional Award from TNCO. (TNCO is an umbrella organization of statewide agencies that provide services to people with disabilities.) One of the men Mr. Brown assists was a guest at the luncheon. When given the opportunity to offer his thoughts, he paused, and lowered his head. Conquering his shyness, he took the microphone, looked up, and making eye contact with Mr. Brown, passionately said, "He's a SWELL fellow! He took me to Wisconsin to see my mother."

The ARC of Tennessee recognized many individuals for their personal accomplishments and exemplary leadership over the previous year at their award luncheon. Progress companions Christopher & Nancy Wiley were recognized as Outstanding Direct Support Professionals. Having faced a very difficult year due to the compromised health of one of the two men they support, Chris and Nancy both made personal sacrifices, because "that's just what we had to do for Doug."

At a gala dinner, The Direct Support Association of Tennessee (D-SPAT) recognized a number of individuals from across the state for their professionalism in assisting people with disabilities. Two Progress employees were recognized for the continuity, stability and quality of care they provide. Dianne Henderson, residential companion and Lisa Cunningham, day staff, were nominated by the parents of the young woman they support. Each received one of the Direct Support Professional monthly awards. Ms. Cunningham was further recognized with a quarterly award in the same category.

The high point of the conference came when Betty Holt, long time caregiver to a young man supported by Progress, received DSPAT's Above and Beyond Award. Ms.Holt cares for this man through the Progress' Family Model Residential Supports. In a living arrangement similar to adult foster care, the person with disabilities becomes an integral member of a family, other than their birth family. Surrounded by members of her family, Ms. Holt was recognized for her patience, resilience and determined efforts to provide a loving, stable home to a young man with cognitive and behavioral issues.

Having been nominated by Progress for their support of people with disabilities, the Marriott Hotel Nashville Airport was recognized by TNCO as Tennessee Business of the Year. For the last thirteen years, this Marriott location has employed a group of eight people from Progress. As part of the housekeeping department, the enclave works as a team under the direct supervision of their Progress job coach and enclave manager Sherron Bell tending to laundry, guest rooms and public spaces. Leading by example, General Manager, Shannon Bowles and Housekeeping Supervisor Willie Terrell were recognized for their support, encouragement, leadership and inclusionary practices.

Progress is a nonprofit agency serving adults with developmental disabilities, currently is in its 35th year of providing quality, compassionate care to approximately 120 people in Davidson and five surrounding counties. Progress works to empower the person with disabilities as they strive to realize their personal vision. By providing unique, personalized supports, adults with disabilities experience full integration into local community life - at home, at work or at play. Additionally, Progress is a staunch advocate of the rights of people with developmental disabilities, and is dedicated to public awareness, enlightenment and acceptance.

Additional information may be obtained by accessing the website www.progress-inc.org or www.givingmatters.com.

June 21, 2006
Contact: Susan Jakoblew, Community Relations Manager
(615)399-3000 ext. 39

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Progress Wins Big At Recent Tennessee Disability MegaConference

Five Progress employees recognized for their services to adults with intellectual disabilities