Tulsa Andrew Jones Honored with a DHS Award of Excellence

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) held its 29th Annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities recently in Norman. During the awards ceremony, DDS recognized Central State Community Services’ (CSCS) Andrew Jones of Tulsa with an “Award of Excellence” in direct support services.

Jones, a direct support professional supervisor, has more than 20 years of experience as a direct support professional. Nominated by CSCS’ Support Coordinator Kathy Frazier, Jones has provided services for Mark, an individual with developmental disabilities, since 2003.

Frazier describes Jones as dedicated and dependable and said that he provides a stable home for Mark where he feels safe and secure. As a result, Mark goes bowling weekly, to the movies and attends church. At home, Mark can sit and watch an entire TV program and play his radio and TV when he wishes without assistance.

“In the past, Mark has required double-staffing, but for the past 10 years, he has been able to be single-staffed due to the efforts and time Andrew has put in with Mark,” Frazier said. “Andrew also often takes Mark to his house for family holidays.”

A direct support service professional is someone who works as a direct care worker for individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. These workers can include habilitation training specialists, job coaches and group home staff, as well as workshop staff, agency companions and specialized foster parents.

The theme for this year’s Governor’s conference is “A Journey to a Good Life.” It reflects the understanding that approximately 60,000 Oklahomans with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities and their families are searching daily for answers before making important decisions that will affect their future.

Oklahoma DDS Director JoAnne Goin said the criteria for winning an “Award of Excellence” focuses on nominees’ tenure, experience and their relationship to the individual(s) and the families they support. Additional skills in leadership, advocacy and their success in supporting people to be included in the community are also considered.

“Our award winners say they absolutely cherish the people they serve,” Goin said. “Direct support professionals are practical, determined and compassionate support staff who treat their individuals like dear friends and family, all the while encouraging and teaching them how to become more independent members in the communities where they work and live.”

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