NADSP E-Badge Earner of the Month: Joseph Maione
Congratulations to Joseph Maione, who has been selected as the June 2024 NADSP E-Badge Academy Earner of the Month. We are recognizing Joseph for his excellent ‘Communication Modes’ E-Badge submission.This badge represents a Direct Support Professionals’ work in using positive and respectful verbal, non-verbal and written communication a way that can be understood by the individual, and actively listens and responds to them in a respectful, caring manner.This badge is part of the Communication CMS Core Competency. It also aligns with the NADSP Competency Area of Communication.
Joseph works as a Assistant Residential Manager at Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI) in New York. DDI helps children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities experience personal growth and fulfillment.To learn more, click here.
Joseph’s Experiences With The NADSP E-Badge Academy
The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) recently asked Joseph about his experiences with the NADSP E-Badge Academy. The questions covered how he carries out his work as a direct support professional, the skillsets he demonstrates on a daily basis, the impact that the E-Badge Academy has had on his professional recognition, and how he gets credit for competency.
Describe the story you shared in carrying out that competency:
The story I shared involved an individual I was working with that showed a desire to use an iPad instead of a communication book. Over time, this new device became a daily part of his life and gave him more confidence to be able to express himself.
Why is this competency so important to DSPs?
This competency is important to DSP’s because communication is a major factor in the work we do. There are many ways our individuals communicate with us, and it’s our job to help and understand what they are saying and expressing to the best of their abilities.
How have you used this competency in your work?
I have used this competency to better communicate with the individuals I serve, whether it’s through sign, communication books, iPads, or verbal It has changed the way I approach the individuals I work with for the better.
How can other DSPs replicate your practices?
Other DSP’s can replicate my practices by hopefully reading my story as it will be featured during the Hopefully what they read can give them insight.
How does the NADSP E-Badge Academy benefit your agency?
The NADSP E-badge academy benefits my agency by allowing great DSP’s to be even better, with the tools and guidance they provided from start to finish. Utilizing the NADSP forever changed my career for the better.
How does NADSP E-Badge Academy benefit the people you support?
The NADSP E-badge academy benefits the people I support in a positive way. The E-badge academy provides tools to help DSPs of all types to better serve and support the people we serve.
What does the future hold for your involvement in the NADSP E-Badge Academy?
My future with the NADSP E-badge academy is to successfully complete more badges and to eventually earn frontline supervisor.
How has NADSP E-Badge Academy affected your professional image?
The NADSP E-badge academy affected my professional image in a positive way. By completing the E-badges I felt more confident in my role as a supervisor. I also feel stronger in the sense that I can be more of a role model to my staff and fellow DSP’s and share my knowledge and experiences with them.
I have to say I do feel more skilled. There is always room for growth no matter what the profession but since working with the NADSP it has really broadened my horizons and my sense of self and what the work I do means to the folks I serve. That said I feel more skilled in the quality of support I can provide.
How has NADSP E-Badge Academy given you credit for competency?
By completing and earning stackable E-badges you are awarded with a nationally recognized NADSP.
Well Wishes from Joseph’s Agency
“We are thrilled that Joe Maione has been selected as this month’s Earner of the Month! Joe’s testimonial demonstrates the impact that DSPs make in providing the individuals that they support with a voice. Farmingdale State College is proud to partner with OPWDD in supporting DSPs like Joe’s education and training.”
-Michael Figuccio, PhD, Chair of Psychology, Farmingdale State College
The NADSP E-Badge Academy
The NADSP E-Badge Academy offers Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and Frontline Supervisors (FLSs) the ability to earn national certification through stackable electronic badges. These badges demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and values that these professionals utilize every day, recognizing the professional development that might otherwise go unacknowledged. Through the NADSP E-Badge Academy, DSPs and FLSs are acknowledged for the experience and education that they bring to the human services field.
NADSP E-Badge Academy Earners Of The Month
NADSP E-Badge Earner of the Month: Jodi beck
NADSP E-Badge Earner of the Month: Mandy Hutton
NADSP E-Badge Earner of the Month: Joseph Maione
