
Although numerous examples could be given for each criterion, we would like to focus on the areas of: Advocacy, Creativity, and Exceptional delivery of direct support, as we highlight the qualities that make Braden a great candidate for this award.

After talking with the client about his interests and wishes, Braden created an itinerary and booked a trip to Disney World. Because he knew the individual could become very anxious at times, he also booked flash passes so they wouldn’t have to stand in line. Once he and the client returned home, all that client could do was talk about how much fun he had and how he could not wait to go back. He showed staff his pictures and his hat and he kept repeating, “Braden is the best!” The smile the client had was due to Braden’s dedicated attention and care. For that moment, the client did not have to deal with his issues and was simply focused on the fun he was having.


Unfortunately, this was at a time that COVID exposures were on the rise and wasn’t approved; however, this didn’t stop him from looking for alternatives. Braden took the initiative to research movie projectors and screens, priced them, and brought it to his supervisor for approval should the gentleman have the funds. Once the projector was purchased and delivered Braden scheduled weekly movie nights, bringing the drive-in home to them. On at least one occasion, he was able to coordinate with one of the client’s parents to make it a family movie night.


Braden is a valued member of our organization and continuously exemplifies our four core values of customer-centeredness, initiative, collaboration, and integrity. This was especially evident by the numerous nominations he received this year by his peers, leadership team, and supervisor for our core value of Initiative, which he subsequently won out of more than 500 DSPs in the organization. Braden routinely goes above and beyond for the clients he supports, advocates for their rights and dreams, partners well with the guardians, and is a consummate team player.
We are proud to have such passionate and dedicated team members such as Braden to help us accomplish our mission to foster inclusion, independence and self-advocacy to the men and women of Emmaus.