In honor of Direct Support Professional Recognition Week (September 13-19, 2026), we are excited to take this opportunity to recognize DSPs from our Residential and Community Day Services programs – the heart and soul of supports for people with disabilities.
Lakeesha Turner has been with Ada S. McKinley for 8 months. She is being featured for her “teamwork, innovation, and excellence” in serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Learn more about Lakeesha in this short interview:
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
“The people we serve.”
What is something that you’ve learned while working as a DSP?
“I’ve learned that we all have the same rights, how to listen, understand, and how to be kind and patient.”
What is one piece of advice would you give to a person who is new to the field?
“To be understanding toward the persons served and co-workers.”
What makes you proud to work with Ada S. McKinley?
“What makes me proud is that I get to help the people we serve with learning life skills to be productive and efficient, to be focused, and motivated to succeed.”
What is one fun fact about yourself?
“I make people laugh.”
