The Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities is proud to recognize Marisa Tchinang as our February Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Month!

Marisa has been a DSP at Bien-Etre Home Care LLC. for nearly three months, and although she previously worked in fast food, she says she has found her passion in this role.

“I can definitely say I love working as a DSP,” Marisa said. “The thing I love most about working at Bien-Entre is being able to connect with my client, Alayna, and do her day-to-day activities with her. I love watching her improve on the little things we work on throughout the day. Being a DSP has taught me patience, and of course, Alayna has taught me a thing or two, too!”

Marisa shared that before working with Alayna as a DSP, her mother, who also works in the DSP field, was one of her biggest inspirations.

“I saw her making a difference in others’ lives, and I wanted to as well,” Marisa said.

Marisa said she hopes to continue in her mother’s footsteps, and in just a few short months, she has. Marisa has not only helped her client, Alayna, strengthen daily living skills and improve organization, but she has also worked with her on budgeting and building confidence.

“I truly feel I’ve made a big impact in Alayna’s life,” Marisa said. “I’ve taught her to keep her room clean, properly do the dishes, and try to help her budget her money. My relationship with Alayna has only gotten stronger. She’s very outgoing and welcoming, so it wasn’t hard to get to this point. I love working with her. I’m her listening ear, and she’s mine as well.”

Marisa and Alayna have together built a weekly routine centered around community engagement and personal growth. Together, they go to the movies, enjoy walks in the community, complete physical therapy exercises, visit the mall, and work on driver’s training. At home, Marisa said she continues to coach Alayna on activities of daily living.

“This consistent support from Marisa creates real learning opportunities and promotes greater independence for Alayna,” Alayna’s SSA, Cassie Ring Murray, said. “Marisa is fulfilling the model of what DSP partnership looks like! This is an exceptional example of DSP assistance for learning! Marisa also keeps highly organized notes and is professional in every way. We are grateful for her partnership and the friendship with Alayna!”

When reflecting on her DSP career thus far, Marisa said one of her favorite memories with Alayna was seeing Zootopia 2 together.

“We both watched the first one and really wanted to see the next one and had a great time,” Marisa said. “We even debriefed after!”

Congratulations, Marisa, on being selected DSP of the Month, and thank you for the difference you make every day! You have demonstrated that meaningful impact isn’t measured by time; it’s measured by dedication, consistency, and care!

Do you know a DSP in the Butler County community that is making a difference in a BIG way? Make sure they get recognized by nominating them for March’s DSP of the Month! Nominations for March are due by Friday, March 6.