In December, JSDD hosted two holiday celebrations to ensure staff from all programs had a chance to come together, relax, and celebrate the season. There was an evening event for WAE Center Staff, Therapeutic Services and Heidi Gallery and a separate daytime gathering for the Residential and Life | Home | Tech teams, each celebration reflected the spirit of connection, appreciation, and joy that defines our community.
Each party brought together staff from across JSDD in a festive atmosphere filled with warmth, delicious food, music, and plenty of laughter. Holiday-themed games and photo opportunities added to the fun, giving colleagues time to connect outside of their day-to-day roles and celebrate the meaningful work for which we all share a passion.
The Residential Team enjoyed fun music, a lively photo booth, and great food. The fan favorite of the annual gathering is the Gift Basket Raffle Extravaganza…which has grown more expansive with each passing year! The staff or each residence builds a creative basket full of all manner of items from food to luxurious self-care items. The enthusiasm around the raffle is palpable, and this year’s most coveted prize was—two extra PTO days. Congratulations to Aubrie George, Randee Lesser, Roslin Bogar, Michelle Johnson and Trishia Owen-Ware, the lucky winners!
During both celebrations, Lori Solomon, the President of the Board, shared her thoughts about the the importance of staff who truly drives the agency forward. Lori credited this dedicated group of professionals with keeping the organization grounded in its mission, delivering compassionate, person-centered support to those we serve every day.
The festivities also included a celebratory moment to honor staff milestones, recognizing years of commitment, dedication, and impact:
5-year Anniversaries
• Sarah Abara
• Vaniah Campbell
• Maria Carvalho
• David Duret
• Joy Eluagu
10-year anniversaries
• Jessica DaSilva
• Sandra Yhap
20-year anniversaries
• Dina Jean
• Donovan Sherwood
These milestones reflect not only longevity but the deep relationships, expertise, and care that staff bring to their roles year after year.
As the holiday season comes to a close, these celebrations serve as a powerful reminder that our greatest strength is our people. We are grateful for the passion, teamwork, and heart that our staff bring to the agency, and we look forward to another year of supporting individuals with dignity, compassion, and excellence.
