Honoring the Heart of Our Work: Our Direct Care Teams

Each quarter, Strawberry Fields recognizes staff teams whose collaboration, care, and commitment make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we serve. We are proud to celebrate our most recent TEAMS Award recipients from two programs: our Fry Drive intellectual and developmental disability community home and our State College Community Residential Rehabilitation program.

The Fry Drive team earned recognition for their exceptional work supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Karen DeSimone, Director of Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services, says, "Our Direct Support Professionals bring patience, skill, and heart to the everyday lives of the people we support. This year has asked a lot of the Fry Drive team, and they responded with unity and purpose. Their commitment to person-centered care and to one another makes this recognition so well deserved." Their work reflects the consistency, compassion, and trust that are essential to meaningful community living.

Our State College Community Residential Rehabilitation (CRR) team, one of our mental health programs, received the TEAMS Award for their remarkable adaptability. "The CRR program provides practical everyday support and coaches residents in routines, coping skills, and community living. During a challenging staffing transition, the team adjusted quickly, worked collaboratively, and maintained a safe, stable, and hopeful environment. Their resilience and the care they bring to this work each day reflect the power of the team," shares Fran McDermid, Director of Program Operations, Mental Health and Social Enterprise. Their steady presence ensured continuity of care during a period of change.

These awardees exemplify how our staff carry out Strawberry Fields' mission every day. Caring professionals across our services play a vital role in supporting independence, community participation, health, and well-being. Through their skill, adaptability, and deep understanding of the people they support, they help individuals navigate daily life, build confidence, and pursue meaningful goals.

We invite you to join us in celebrating our TEAMS Award recipients and in recognizing all of our direct care professionals who bring our mission to life each day.

Fry Drive

State College Community Residential Rehabilitation (CRR)