At New Point Life Services, our mission is simple. We empower adults with developmental disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and opportunity. At the heart of that mission are our Direct Support Professionals, the compassionate and committed individuals who make that vision come to life each day. Whether they are teaching essential life skills, supporting individuals out in the community, or offering comfort during a tough moment, their work is both powerful and personal.
In honor of National Direct Support Professional Week, we are shining a light on a few of the remarkable staff who represent the spirit of this work so well. Their stories speak for themselves and offer a glimpse into what it means to serve with purpose, heart, and hope.
One of those extraordinary individuals is Shelly Forrest. With thirteen years of dedication under her belt, Shelly has served in many roles at New Point Life Services. She currently serves at the Hacienda house, where she supports six adult men with developmental disabilities. Each morning, she helps them start their day with dignity and purpose, assisting with medications, preparing meals, and offering the kind of care that is rooted in respect and trust.
“This job teaches you that communication isn’t always about words, it’s about connection,” she says. For Shelly, that connection comes from truly knowing the individuals she supports. Not everyone communicates through speech, but that does not mean they are not understood. One gentleman she works with does not use words at all, but over time, Shelly has come to understand his needs through small cues, like the expression in his eyes or gestures.
Shelly takes pride in the relationships she has built and the growth she has witnessed, saying, “It is a joy to see individuals overcome challenges and thrive.” Her commitment even inspired family—her daughter once worked for the company, and one of her children still does.
Outside of work, Shelly owns a catering business called Royal Occasions and Catering. She enjoys cooking, spending time at the beach, traveling, and being active in her church community. Looking ahead to retirement, she reflects on the work with gratitude. “It’s fulfilling. It will change your life, in the best way.”
Another familiar face at New Point Life Services is Darryl Doggett, whose presence at the group day center has made a lasting impact. After spending years in healthcare and law enforcement, Darryl was drawn to something that felt more personal and purpose driven. He says, “I wanted something more stable and more meaningful.” He found that at New Point Life Services.
The group day program provides adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to engage in social, recreational, and life-skills-based activities, with a strong emphasis on community involvement. Darryl helps coordinate outings, ensures safety, and creates memorable moments like grilling 200 burgers and 200 hot dogs during Water Day.
He drives an hour and a half each morning to work, a testament to his commitment. "It is worth it to see them smile and just be themselves," he says. Darryl is honest about the challenges but believes that patience and a strong mindset are key. His advice to others is simple: "Do not be afraid to get your hands dirty and branch out."
While Darryl keeps the energy high with community outings and cookouts, Debby Young brings a thoughtful and educational focus to the day support experience. With just over a year of service at New Point Life Services, Debby offers not only experience in the field but a passion for teaching and creativity.
"Helping people has always come naturally to me," she says. Since joining the team, she has led daily activities designed to teach, inspire, and build confidence. One project she is especially proud of is helping create the “LOVE” sign that now stands outside the day support center. It is a small symbol of the big care happening inside.
“I want everything we do here to involve learning,” she adds. Debby is driven by watching individuals achieve small victories, no matter how small, and says the most surprising part of the job is how rewarding it truly is. “You give, but you get so much back.”
Shifting back to the heart of residential care, Dayla Reed serves as a Team Lead DSP at the Carriage House, a home shared by five women. She brings both heart and creativity to her role each day. “Each day is an opportunity to make a difference,” she says.
Her passion shows through in the activities she plans, from board games and crafts to Just Dance sessions that fill the home with laughter. But what means the most to Dayla is the trust she has built with the women she supports. “They know they can count on me, and that means everything.”
The work has also shaped her personally. “It’s taught me patience and has given me more understanding.” Looking to the future, Dayla hopes to continue growing in leadership and encourages others entering the field to stay focused on their purpose and always keep God first.
Wrapping up our spotlight is Renette Brooks, a dedicated DSP who serves at the Villa House, home to five adult men. Since joining New Point Life Services in 2019, Renette has provided steady support and heartfelt care to the individuals she works with.
“I’m here to support the individuals, make sure they’re healthy, have activities, and are taken care of,” she says. Her days often include preparing meals, assisting with daily routines, and looking for little ways to brighten someone’s day. “I love making them laugh,” she adds with a smile.
Renette values the way the job challenges her to grow and teaches her something new all the time. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue growing within the company and encourages others to bring both heart and consistency to the work. “If you show up, stay present, and treat people with care, this job can be deeply rewarding,” she says. “It’s all about building trust and being someone others can count on.”
As we celebrate National DSP Week, it is our honor to spotlight just a few of the remarkable individuals who make New Point Life Services what it is. Their dedication, patience, and heart are the foundation of the care we provide and the community we are building.
Whether supporting someone through a new experience, offering encouragement in a tough moment, or creating joy in the everyday, our DSPs are changing lives. Often, the impact they make cannot be fully captured in words. We are grateful for their work and proud to recognize the difference they make.
Our legacy is founded in being a place where individuals are able to receive intentional care through day and residential services. We believe through our services that anyone whether individual, staff, community partner, and/or families are able to find security and safety at New Point Life Services.
