Congratulations, Brett

Today, we’d like to recognize Imagine! employee Brett Osborn, who was recently nominated for the Alliance Direct Support Professional of the Year Award.

Here’s what the nomination had to say about Brett:

Brett has a heart full of care and compassion for all of the individuals with whom she works. She has made it a personal goal to get to know them well so she can be the best support and advocate possible. The results of this goal are plain to see. One of the residents suffers from depression, and she finds new and fulfilling ways to help this person get out of the house and into the community. She helped the individual join a church and build relationships with the people there, as well as taking her on fun outings like to the nail salon. The community outings and involvement help with the depressive symptoms and the individual has enjoyed trying new things as well as having fun planning and researching other possibilities. In another example, Brett is the primary support for one individual and she has supported her in ways that have truly been transformative. Brett supported this individual to express herself and her emotions in a healthy way. The individual is not able to communicate verbally very easily but now she is painting and playing music. Those activities are entertaining and enjoyable but also help the individual express her feelings to those around her in a tangible way. Brett is a tireless advocate and support for this individual. She helps this person navigate complicated health discussions with her family, guardian, nurse, and site supervisor. Brett is always tuned into what the individual is feeling and makes sure that her voice is heard. Brett spends a lot of her time, on and off the clock, helping people when they’re in the hospital. She makes sure the hospital staff understands how to communicate with the individuals she serves and also makes a point to visit them and bring them personal items that will make them feel more at ease. If ever there is a medical emergency at the home and Brett is on shift, you can expect to see her taking the lead. She keeps a cool head in crisis and makes sure that everyone is safe and informed. Brett’s focus on each individual and their unique needs and desires makes her stand out among the rest of her colleagues.

The winner of the Alliance Award will be announced February 27 at Alliance's Annual I/DD Awareness Day at the Colorado State Capitol.