Congratulations Michelle!
Thrive Behavioral Network is proud to announce our long term Direct Support Professional, Michelle Voigt, who has been named a winner of the 2022 ARRM Cares Award. Michelle was chosen from 178 nominees in Minnesota and in the company of 5 other winners.
She was chosen for this award in recognition of her contributions in promoting growth and independence in the people we serve, Professional integrity, networking supports, and with an inspirational person-centered approach. ARRM refers to this dedication as the “Gold Standard” in support professionals.
Thrive Behavioral Network President, Jeff Bradley, presented Michelle with the ARRM Cares award and a prize check on behalf of ARRM. Michelle also received a bouquet of roses from Thrive Behavioral Network to honor her in this celebration of her recognition and to say thank you.
Michelle stepped into a leadership role in 2005 alongside Thrive and exclusively for Thrive in 2009 becoming the full time Primary Direct Support Professional at Windsor House. Michelle has earned the utmost trust, admiration and respect from those who have had the privilege to work with her. Her enthusiasm contributes to the home having a positive atmosphere with both the people she serves and the staff she supervises. Despite some very challenging tasks through out the years, she continues to be a positive role model, presents good character, builds cohesive teamwork, and lifts up others thru her commitment. She has built a reputation of strong support team collaboration and quick responses in communication both externally and internally as she works to focus on each person’s individual preferences and needs.
In celebration of Michelle’s ARRM Cares award and DSP Recognition Week, lunch was served at Windsor House where Direct Support Professionals in Thrives Litchfield Homes, President Jeff Bradley and Directors of Program Management, Mary Johnston and Rob Benner were in attendance.
We asked Michelle some questions about herself and her years of providing services
How long have you worked for Thrive?
Since 2005 as a DSP and in my current position of PDSP since 2008.
What do you like most about your job?
The reward of helping people with their daily lives and seeing them grow firsthand. Also the sense of family that is created with long-term staff and the people we serve.
Who is one of your heroes or heroines?
Mary Johnston!
What are your two most favorite things away from work?
Family time & camping.
What is something about you that would surprise people?
I had never traveled outside the state of Minnesota until my 40s when I went to Las Vegas.
What values are important to you?
Honesty, compassion, & a desire to build positive relationships.