Congratulations BJ Carolan & Andrea Davies - 2009 Points of Transformation Award Recipients

Monday; March 30, 2009

Congratulations to William (BJ) Carolan and Andrea Davies on their 2009 Points of Transformation Awards! The Points of Transformation Award Ceremony was held on March 25th at City Hall and presented by the City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Mental Retardation Services in celebration of Direct Support Professionals.

BJ was given this prestigious award for his work with people of all ages, abilities and fitness needs as a Life Coach at Norcom Community Center. He was also praised for his assistance in helping NCC further its mission as an inclusive setting. Laura Fekete-Colon, his supervisor, noted that everything he does is about outcomes and helping people achieve their goals. She stated, "It is rewarding for him to see people achieve their goals whether it is climbing a step or losing weight".

At NCC, there is a group of teenagers known as "The Fitness Crew" that meets twice a week. Their enthusiasm and motivation is largely due to BJ's mentorship and guidance. They respect his opinion and think he is "cool" and smart. One of them declared, "He’s not just a personal trainer; he is a teacher and a friend". Many of the group members' families joined the community center so they can all be in the best possible health with BJ's assistance. Everyone who knows BJ would surely agree this award is well deserved for many reasons.

Andrea received the award for her work as an Employment Specialist in SPIN's CIE department. Anyone who meets Andrea immediately sees how dedicated she is to the work that she does. Not only does she support individuals in fulfilling their desire to work, but she also assists them in becoming more independent both at their jobs and at home. Her supervisor, Pat Wray, stated that Andrea "has made an immeasurable impact on so many people's lives in so many ways".

On numerous occasions, Andrea has gone above and beyond to help the people she supports become more confident in the workplace. She encourages them to connect with their co-workers, celebrates their accomplishments, and is a constant source of assurance. She has helped multiple people find successful and rewarding employment opportunities, some of whom have been at their jobs for two to three years!

Thank you both for your commitment to SPIN's mission and for being such extraordinary role models to those around you. Everyone at SPIN is so proud to have you in our midst; you are true inspirations to us all!