MIDDLETOWN — For people considering a job in direct support, there’s no better source of information than someone who has made a career of it.
Yvonne Cox recently wrapped up a 30-year career as a direct support assistant (DSA) working in Orange County-based group homes for Hudson Valley DDSO.
With many job postings in the Hudson Valley lacking decent wages and benefits, Cox said direct care gives workers the chance to earn steady income and do work that has meaning. In an area where warehouse and retail jobs are regularly recruiting, Cox said choosing a career in direct support can give workers a greater feeling of accomplishment.
“To me, the draw was having a job that I knew was going to be there and that I could depend on,” said Cox. “I never saw myself doing this work. I truly kind of fell into it, but I realized it was work I needed to do.”
A steady work schedule, along with a union contract and benefits, were among the benefits that drew in Cox. The bonus was the unexpected moments when the individuals in her care made developmental strides.
“Knowing that I was able to help people was definitely a plus,” said Cox, recalling the heartwarming feeling that came when an individual in her care, who had limited verbal skills, surprised her.
“Even though we spent a lot of time together, I didn’t think he knew my name because I’d never heard it,” said Cox. “One day, I heard him clearly say my name and it was just such a nice surprise.”
Now that her days of full-time employment are behind her (though she plans to work part-time to stay busy), Cox said that even with the job’s challenging moments, her career has left her in a good place. Having a job with a pension was a smart choice, she said.
“This job meant I can still support myself in retirement,” said Cox. “I always said to my co-workers, especially the young ones, that they should get more involved in our union because that’s why we have what we have. When you look at other jobs out there hiring right now, they don’t have the stability we have and they definitely don’t have the pensions.”
— Jessica Ladlee
