Okmulgee resident wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY --  Crystal Hammon of Okmulgee was honored at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held April 25th and 26 in Norman. Hammon works with Central State Community Services in Okmulgee as a Direct Support Professional Supervisor in the home of an Okmulgee couple with health and support needs.

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services Developmental Disabilities Services Division sponsors the awards to honor outstanding direct care professionals around the state. 

Division Director James Nicholson says the purpose of the awards is to honor those who support people with developmental disabilities by becoming as independent as possible,” said Nicholson.

“Oklahoma is committed to assisting people with developmental disabilities find competitive jobs and become working taxpayers. In fact, we are one of the top two states in integrated employment in the country.” Nicholson explained that success for people with developmental disabilities is directly related to the care, skills and attention provided by these professionals.

Hammon was nominated for the award by her supervisor Paula Bos. “Before Crystal began working with the couple, both individuals were withdrawn, inactive and refused to participate in the community or their own care. Crystal’s patience and personality have transformed their existence into productive, active, independent lives complete with pride and a strong work ethic,” said Bos.

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Crystal Hammon (right) receives an Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services from James Nicholson, Director, Developmental Disabilities Services Division, Oklahoma Department of Human Services.