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 DSP's Making a Difference: Patrina Pinkett
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. Patrina Pinkett is one of those DSPs.
 Patrina Pinkett has been working at Central Florida Communities for 14 years, currently serving as a Direct Support Professional. Her 14 years of service stand out for their remarkable flexibility and dedication. Central Florida Group Homes operates 17 group homes across more than four counties, and although Patrina lives in a county separate from where the homes are located, she has worked with residents from all 17. When asked by administration, she has willingly changed her primary work location multiple times to help provide coverage - including at some of the organization's most remote locations, at times increasing her commute to as much as an hour and a half. Rather than focusing only on the residents at her assigned home, she consistently looks for ways to support the organization as a whole.
Notably, Patrina was promoted to DSP Supervisor. After serving in that role for a period of time, she made the choice to return to direct support work because she felt she could make a greater impact as a DSP, working hands-on across various homes with different residents - a decision that speaks to where her heart truly is in this field.
In her day-to-day care, Patrina understands that residents are not all the same - each has unique abilities and needs - and she ensures her support is person-centered accordingly. Described as a gentle and compassionate soul, she promotes residents' physical and emotional well-being by engaging with them and truly listening. She is a person of integrity who does the right thing even when no one is watching, and she is respectful of residents' rights, treating everyone with dignity. Though she acknowledges it can be difficult not to have "a favorite," she is intentional about ensuring every individual she supports receives fair and equal treatment. Patrina's peers have recognized her as Team Member of the Quarter for her outstanding contributions.
Thank you, Patrina, for your ongoing service to the individuals served at Central Florida Communities!
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