DSP's Making a Difference: Oliguine Robergeau

As part of DSP Recognition Week, FADSP is pleased to recognize direct support professionals (DSPs) who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people they serve. Oliguine Robergeau is one of those DSPs.

Oliguine is a very selfless and committed Direct Support Professional who has been working for Sunrise Community for nearly twenty-one years providing exceptional services to individuals with special needs. 

Oliguine is an amazing team player who takes a "can do" approach to performing her work duties, no matter how challenging the circumstances might be. For example, during 2020 when COVID-19 pandemic broke out, the home that she is assigned to work was adversely affected with the virus and several of the individuals became exposed.  This was in the early phase of the pandemic when many people were afraid to come into contact with individuals who have been exposed to the COVID-19.  However, Oliguine volunteered to work in a quarantine section of the facility with individuals who were exposed. She provided one-on-one care to these individuals placed in isolation areas not fearing the possibility of getting COVID-19.  In addition she worked extra hours covering shifts for staff who became ill and had to be placed on leave for fourteen days quarantine.  She performed her work duties with a positive attitude and with great effectiveness.

Oliguine continues to be an exemplary employee for Sunrise.  She is well liked by her supervisors, co-workers, the individuals served, as well as the guardians and family members.  She takes care of the individuals as though they are her very own loved ones.  For all that she has consistently done, and continues to do, to make a positive difference in the lives of the individuals served at Sunrise Community, we cannot think of someone more deserving to be recognized for her outstanding contributions to people with developmental disabilities.

Oliguine ensures that the individuals receive person-centered supports as expected by respecting their individual rights, offering them choices according to their preferences and likes and dislikes.  She consistently interacts with the individuals to reinsure they are socially stimulated. Oliguine follows the individuals physical and occupational therapy programs.  She provides them with outside stimulation and ensures they receive their exercises. Oliguine protects the individual’s privacy and ensures they are all treated fairly and with respect.  She helps to facilitate family contact and interaction with the individuals.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when physical visitation was restricted at the facility, she ensured individuals in her home got the opportunity to consistently communicate with loved ones via face time.  She ensures her individuals are afforded the opportunity to express and experience their self-determination by respecting the choices they make.

Over the years Oliguine has received many recognitions from her supervisors for going above and beyond the normal call of duty.  She has received service awards by the company for her five-year, ten-year, fifteen year, and twenty years of service to Sunrise Community.

Thank you, Oliguine, for your continued service to the individuals served at Sunrise Community!