Oklahoma City resident wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Sheila Parker was honored at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held March 5 and 6 in Norman. Parker works for Independent Opportunities, Inc. in Oklahoma 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.”

Parker is a House Manager for three women who all use wheelchairs and require total care. She was nominated by Case Manager Lisa Humphrey who says Parker sees the women as part of her family since she’s worked with two of them for over 11 years and the third woman for over three years. Humphrey says the women’s guardian feels the same way about Parker. "Depending on their health and the weather, Sheila takes the ladies out to shop, run errands or go to appointments. She has created a happy home through her devotion, excellent care and loving attitude,” explained Humphrey.

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Renee Johnson (left) accepts the Award of Excellence on Sheila Parker’s behalf from JoAnne Goin, Director, Developmental Disabilities Services Division, Oklahoma Department of Human Services.