Enid resident wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Juradean Neal was honored at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held March 5 and 6 in Norman. Neal works at the Northern Oklahoma Resource Center in Enid. 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.”

Neal is a Medication Aide and communicates regularly with the families of the individuals she serves. She was nominated by Emma Frazier who says Neal encourages independence for those individuals regarding personal hygiene as well as during meal time and provides support when needed. “One Thanksgiving, Juradean assisted in preparing the meal and decorating tables, creating a festive and homelike atmosphere greatly appreciated by the residents,” explained Frazier.

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