Melody Johnson, Director of Education and Professional Development at Arc of Monroe, shares her personal and professional journey in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Growing up in a family that provided care for individuals transitioning out of institutions, Melody was deeply influenced by her mother’s progressive approach to fostering independence. Her career evolved from direct support professional (DSP) roles to leadership in workforce transformation and training. She discusses how COVID-19 reshaped training delivery, increasing accessibility through virtual platforms while also highlighting the trauma and isolation experienced by people with disabilities. Melody emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care, shifting perspectives from “what’s wrong with you” to “what happened to you.” She shares meaningful stories from her time as a DSP, including organizing enriching trips for individuals she supported. In her closing advice, she encourages inclusive community interactions, early exposure for children to diverse environments, and recognizes the deeply rewarding nature of working in the IDD field—not as a calling for angels, but for those who care.
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