Submitted By: LeValia Williams | Arc of Chemung
Ashley Golson has been with the ARC of Chemung for 1 ½ years. She is located at our Burkeshire IRA (Individual Residential Alternatives). Ashley was assigned to be a DSP for Johnny Miller in 2015. Ashley asked Johnny what were some of his future goals, through Personal Outcome Measures®. He expressed that he would like to obtain his New York State Driver’s License. Ashley told him that is great! Ashley explained to Johnny that this is definitely an outcome for him! Johnny was so excited. In addition to being an asset to our team (taking on additional assignments), Ashley had several planning sessions with Johnny explaining what it would take. With her lead, together they set up the steps needed to obtain the goal.
In April 2015, Johnny started studying the manual. In June, he filled out the appropriate paperwork and successfully completed the 5-hour course! Ashley continuously encouraged JMI when he got discouraged and helped keep him on track.
Next step was to budget Johnny’s money so that he could start Diehr’s driving school in August 2015. Ashley ensured Johnny attended each scheduled driving lesson (even on her days off at times, she took him!).
Through Ashley’s leadership, constant support to accomplish this wonderful independent goal and going above and beyond what was expected of her, Johnny obtained his driver’s license on July 28, 2016!
Johnny repeatedly thanked Ashley for being so dedicated and keeping him focused, when he wanted to give up. Johnny’s grandmother was contacted for her opinion of this huge endeavor (she was skeptical of the idea when Ashley initially discussed it with her). His grandmother said “I am so very happy! Ashley did an outstanding job with Johnny. She kept him encouraged and on track. I REALLY appreciate her.”
Hats off to DSP Ashley Golson!
2016 Direct Support Professional Recognition Week
This article is part of a campaign during the 2016 DSP Recognition Week, to acknowledge Direct Support Professionals who are helping people achieve their individually-defined outcomes, through the use of Personal Outcome Measures®. This campaign was developed through a partnership between CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership and The National Alliance For Direct Support Professionals (NADSP).
Ashley Golson: Supporting Johnny To Get His Driver’s License