Widly Couloute’s path to becoming a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at AHRC Nassau was inspired by a personal connection: seeing her aunt raise and care for a son with autism. What she didn’t quite understand at a young age —the patience and care required to help people with disabilities thrive —is now part of her everyday life.

Inspired by the importance of this work, Widly started her DSP journey in 2015. Since joining AHRC in January, she’s become an invaluable member of the team.

Her commitment and pride in work well done are evident. She recalls an experience supporting three residents with their cooking and home care needs.

With one resident, she provided “hand-over-hand assistance and verbal prompts for about six months” supporting him to learn to use a fork and knife.

“One day I saw him do it all on his own, and that felt incredible,” said Widly.

As a residential DSP, Widly provides comprehensive care, including managing medications, bringing people to doctors’ appointments, and assisting with daily living skills.

Widly’s compassion shines through her approach, even when challenging moments arise. It’s important, according to Widly, “to share the right way to do things, ways that keep them safe and meet their needs.”

Widly finds her role immensely rewarding and especially enjoys providing one-to-one support to Frank Riva.

“My best days are going out with Franky, ” she says, describing trips to baseball games and Atlantic City. These moments, and the gratitude she receives from the community, make the work worthwhile.

Her advice for new and potential DSPs is “be vigilant” because “people are under your care.” Reflecting on her experience, and what keeps her coming back every day, Widly simply said, “I love working with people with disabilities, without them the world would be boring.”

Thank you Widly. We are incredibly grateful for your dedication to enriching the lives of the people we support