DSP of the Month – Silviya Boshnakovas
The Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities is proud to recognize Silviya Boshnakovas as our May DSP of the Month for her dedication, compassion, and commitment to helping the people she supports live active, meaningful, and fulfilling lives!
Originally from Bulgaria, Silviya spent many years building a career in education before becoming a Direct Support Professional. In her home country, she worked as an elementary school teacher and a special education teacher. After coming to the United States 21 years ago, she continued serving others as an educational assistant in a multiple disabilities classroom at Fairfield High School for 10 years.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Silviya became certified as an independent provider and began supporting Ryan Gladish Effler. She credits Ryan’s mother, Liz Gladish, for inspiring her to become a DSP.
“Mrs. Gladish explained to me what the job involves and how important and helpful it is for families and loved ones with different abilities to have someone they can rely on for support,” Silviya shared.
In August of last year, Silviya transitioned into being a full-time DSP, allowing her to focus more deeply on the individuals she serves.
“My favorite part of this job is that every day I get to do something meaningful for the people I work with,” Silviya said. “Even small things, like getting an ice cream treat, making a new friend, or experiencing something for the first time, bring so much joy. Their smiles are my favorite part of the job.”
Silviya’s approach to care goes far beyond meeting basic needs. While she provides essential daily support such as medication administration, personal care, and hygiene assistance, she also works intentionally to help individuals build independence and experience life in new and exciting ways.
“My personal goal is not only to provide basic care, but also to give my clients opportunities to experience new things, meet new people, and enjoy activities they truly like every day,” Silviya said.
Those experiences include volunteering at Matthew 25, attending community events, going to baseball games, visiting the zoo, parks, libraries, We Rock the Spectrum gym, and participating in movies adapted for individuals with special needs. Silviya also travels with the individuals she supports and their families on vacations and short trips, helping create lasting memories while giving families valuable support and respite.
Silviya works closely with families and SSA staff to ensure all activities align with each person’s individual service plan and goals.
Silviya also expressed gratitude for the support she has received from BCBDD staff over the years.
“Whenever I have questions about the job or the people I work with, the SSAs are always very helpful,” she said. “A big thank you to Mary Hills and Cathy Borders for all the help and support I have received over the years.”
SSA Mary Hills praised Silviya’s passion and dedication to the people she serves.
“Silviya is an independent provider who does a great job providing support to the children and adults she serves,” Hills said. “Family feedback is always positive and appreciative of what Silviya does every day. She is always thoughtful about how she can assist in helping those she serves be as independent as possible. She takes it upon herself to look into community activities that increase social opportunities. She has a passion that is seen instantly. She has great communication skills and is open to trying new things.”
Mary also noted that Silviya has provided waiver support and services for several individuals she serves over the last three to four years.
Thank you, Silviya, for the compassion, creativity, and care you bring to the individuals and families you support every day. Your dedication truly makes a difference in our community!
Do you know a DSP that goes above and beyond for the individuals they serve? Nominate them for June’s DSP of the Month!