Oklahoma City resident honored with Award of Excellence and Best of the Best Award in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Freddrenia Martin was honored with two awards at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held March 5 and 6 in Norman. Martin works for Mid-Del Group Homes in Midwest City. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) 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.”

Freddie, as she is known by her friends, is a Health Care Coordinator for 24 individuals who live in several group homes. Mid Del Group Homes Executive Director James Ray says Martin is exceptionally well organized and has developed a great rapport with all of the individuals, their families and the providers. “Freddie treats every resident with compassion, understanding and respect. She not only continues to serve in this field, as did her mother, but also her son who is now following in her footsteps,” explained Ray.

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