REM Iowa’s Linda Renn Receives Iowa Direct Support Professional of the Year Award

04/19/2019

The American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) has chosen Linda Renn, a Direct Support Professional from REM Iowa, as the 2019 Iowa Direct Support Professional of the Year.

Each year ANCOR, the national association representing providers of community-based services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, selects a Direct Support Professional (DSP) from each state to be recognized as DSP of the Year for their outstanding contributions to the people they serve. Nominees for the Direct Support Professional of the Year Award are judged on their success in helping people with disabilities build social networks and engage in substantive community participation and for advocating for the individuals they support.

When visiting any program where Linda is working, you will find her talking to all the individuals, singing songs, assisting with showering and working on daily living skills. She is available to other staff and supervisors when issues arise and tells everyone that they can call her for assistance or guidance at any time. Linda volunteers to take individuals to medical appointments, as she knows their behaviors well and is able to support them when behavioral challenges arise.

“During Linda’s 10 years of service, she has had a tremendously positive impact on the individuals she supports,” said Lisa Pakkebier, Executive Director of REM Iowa. “Her overall mission is one of person-centered support. Her caring and compassionate actions are always what she believes to be in the best interest of the individual.”

Congratulations Linda!