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LaCoppola named NYS 2008 Direct Support Professional of the Year The American Network of Community Options and Resources has selected Michael "Mickey" LaCoppola, an 18-year employee of Liberty, the Montgomery County Chapter, NYSARC, Inc., as recipient of its 2008 New York State Direct Support Professional of the Year award.
"Liberty is very proud of this well-deserved recognition of Mickey's hard work. It is a great reflection on the caring, thoughtful way he interacts with the people he supports," said Frank Capone, CEO.
Direct support professionals, who are often referred to as caregivers, personal assistants, or homecare aides, provide daily supports to millions of Americans with disabilities. People with disabilities are able to live better, more independent lives because of the supports they receive from DSPs.
"Mickey has a warm, friendly open-minded approach to his position," said Jerry Gallup, director of Liberty's residential program. "He has built a strong personal rapport with the individuals he supports and their families. He is quite the conversationalist and ensures that individuals are included any conversation. Mickey truly embodies the greatest qualities you would expect in a direct support professional."
Liberty is a member of ANCOR, which represents more than 850 private providers of community living and employment supports and services to more than 385,000 individuals with disabilities. According to ANCOR officials, nearly 200 nominations of direct support professionals were evaluated in order to select its national and state winners. LaCoppola was chosen to represent New York state direct support professionals because he has demonstrated a commitment to improving people's social capital, inclusion and independence.
LaCoppola received a plaque from ANCOR and will be recognized at Liberty's annual membership dinner tonight at the Crystal Ristorante in Amsterdam.
Founded in 1957, Liberty is a not-for-profit organization serving over 600 individuals with developmental and other disabilities. Liberty offers vocational, day and family support, health-related and residential services in Montgomery County.
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