From DSP to Manager – Finding the Perfect Home

“I was waiting for the perfect opportunity to be a manager, and this was it,” Rebekah Schuyler said.

Rebekah has been working at Liberty ARC for the last 20 years. She started as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and worked her way up to assistant manager. Over the years, she’s been encouraged to apply for manager positions, but she was very particular about what home she would oversee. That is until the agency announced it would be building a new, innovative residence on Trailer Street in the Village of Palatine Bridge.

The new residence is unlike any other the agency has designed and built, and it’s the first of its kind in the state of New York. The model is comprised of three separate apartments, designed for two people to live in each, making it the smallest, barrier-free home at the agency. Each unit has its own kitchen, separate bedrooms, bathroom, laundry room and private entrance.

“I was really interested in being a manager at this new home because it’s so unique and different,” she said. “And I was really excited to start in a brand new home where I could build teams and help them grow.”

Rebekah said she originally started working at Liberty ARC because a friend encouraged her to apply.

“I had only ever worked in retail or a factory, and I wanted a more fulfilling job,” she said. “I wanted to feel like I was making a difference. I started working here at Liberty and I never looked back.”

Rebekah’s favorite aspect of her job is making those she supports happy.

“Anything that makes them happy, makes me happy,” she said. “It could be the little things or big things, but when they smile, it’s infectious.”

The Trailer Street residence was finished being built this winter, and Rebekah is working a few logistics out before residents move in. She said she can’t wait until the individuals move into their new homes.

“I think this is a great opportunity for them,” she said. “I think they’ll become more independent and build new relationships with each other and staff.”

If you are interested in joining the Liberty ARC team and want a meaningful career, please visit HERE to see our current openings.