Jay resident wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Joy Dunback was honored at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held March 5 and 6 in Norman. Dunback works for Delaware County Friendship Homes in Jay. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services Developmental Disabilities Services Division sponsors the awards to honor outstanding direct care professionals around the state. 

JoAnne Goin, Director, OKDHS Developmental Disabilities Services Division says the purpose of the awards is to honor those who help people with intellectual disabilities integrate into their communities.  

“They work long hours, often at low wages to provide services across many settings," says Goin. "The Direct Support Professionals we honored today have gone the extra mile to serve. They have provided empathic, loving care to meet our highest standards. We honor their commitment and service. They truly represent the Best of the Best in Oklahoma’s system of care for people with intellectual disabilities.”

Dunback is a Program Coordinator at a group home in Jay. She was nominated by OKDHS case manager Jamie Depoe who says that Dunback is a compassionate mentor to the people she serves. ”She has gained the respect of the family members of each of her charges and contacts them not only with problems, but also solutions. Joy advocates for each client and takes each one to the doctor and dentist, familiarizing herself with each individual’s medical needs and concerns,” explained Depoe.

###

Joy Dunback (left) receives an Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services from JoAnne Goin, Director, Developmental Disabilities Services Division, Oklahoma Department of Human Services.