Honoring the Heart of Our Mission: Celebrating DSPs and the 2025 Golden Goals Award Winner
At InCommunity, our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are more than staff - they’re the lifeblood of our organization. They are the steady hands, kind hearts, and committed advocates who work day in and day out to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living full, independent, and meaningful lives.
Their work is personal. It’s powerful. And it deserves recognition.
That’s why, during DSP Appreciation Month, we’re proud to shine a light on the individuals who go above and beyond - not just in fulfilling job duties, but in forming real relationships, building trust, and being a constant source of support and encouragement.
This year, we celebrated that spirit through our 2025 Golden Goals “DSP of the Year” Award, recognizing one outstanding DSP and honoring several extraordinary nominees who each bring something unique, and irreplaceable - to the InCommunity family.
2025 DSP of the Year: Brenda Gates
Congratulations to the winner of this year’s Golden Goals award: Brenda Gates.
Brenda’s care runs deep, and her impact is felt in every home she enters. Whether she’s offering a warm hug, a listening ear, or a creative outing idea, she brings joy, purpose, and heart to everything she does.
“I love my individuals. They make me smile all day long,” Brenda says.
But Brenda isn’t just beloved by those she supports - she’s trusted by the entire team. As her manager puts it:
“Brenda goes above and beyond… she never pushes back when asked to assist at other homes and always arrives with a smile. The individuals are very fond of her, even in homes she doesn't regularly work in.”
Her philosophy is simple and powerful:
“Bring your heart, your loyalty, and your patience. This job isn’t for someone chasing money - the reward is knowing you have a friend, a family, with the individuals.”
Brenda, thank you for being a constant source of love, light, and leadership in our community. Your work inspires us all.
2025 DSP of the Year Nominees
Each of this year’s nominees embodies the values that make Direct Support Professionals so essential: empathy, consistency, creativity, and unwavering dedication.
Shondranette Boykins
Shondranette brings warmth, humor, and heart to every shift.
“I’ve always had a passion for helping others in any way I can… anything to put a smile on their face.”
She believes in kindness and helps individuals feel confident and seen.
Shondranette, thank you for making every day brighter.
Emmanuel Adigwu
Emmanuel leads with heart, patience, and strength.
“I’ve always been drawn to helping others, believing that every person deserves a life full of dignity, respect, and joy.”
His work reflects deep empathy and purpose.
Emmanuel, thank you for your powerful presence.
Domini Kincaid
With nearly 20 years of experience as a DSP and CNA, Domini blends compassion and expertise.
“Just knowing I can put a smile on an individual’s face means everything to me.”
Her support during times of transition, especially drawing from her own life experience, shows unmatched empathy.
Domini, thank you for showing up with your whole heart.
Dana Scruggs
Returning to direct support work brought Dana back to his purpose.
“It’s been the most rewarding and humbling experience of my life.”
He brings consistency, empathy, and trust - cornerstones of quality care.
Dana, thank you for being a steady force of good.
D’Porche Ashford
Known for her leadership and creativity, D’Porche ensures every individual is included and engaged.
“She ensures no individuals are left out of daily activities - engaging each person based on their strengths and needs.”
She’s built bonds so strong that families ask for her by name.
D’Porche, thank you for raising the bar every day.
Arlene Levi
Arlene brings structure, creativity, and heart to every role she takes on.
“Arlene finds out-of-the-box ways to help individuals reach their goals, even when challenges arise.”
She’s committed to growth - not just for the individuals she supports, but for her team as well.
“This career choice has been extremely rewarding. Each day, I receive a sense of appreciation from the clients I serve.”
Arlene, thank you for making every moment count.
Why DSPs Matter
Direct Support Professionals are more than caregivers - they are champions for inclusion, independence, and dignity. They empower individuals with I/DD to live life on their own terms, while creating spaces where growth, trust, and joy can thrive.
Their work often happens behind the scenes, but the results speak loudly: stronger communities, empowered individuals, and lives filled with meaning.
This DSP Appreciation Month, we say thank you - not just with words, but with recognition, respect, and renewed commitment to uplifting the people who make InCommunity possible.
To Brenda, our nominees, and every DSP on our team: we see you, we value you, and we are so grateful you’re here.