What does it mean to go above and beyond? Driving across the city during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver food to sick members? Distributing 80 wrapped presents to members in group homes, so everyone could experience the joy of the holiday season?
It’s incredible gestures like these that prompted disability advocacy organization The Arc of Illinois to recognize Jason Whitner, manager of our Idelle Kipperman Kitchen at our Westtown Center, and our Board member Mark Jak with recent awards.
Whitner, who was named DSP (direct support professional) of the Year, originally was not required to work with Envision Unlimited members. Yet, he requested to become a registered DSP, so he could step in and support programming with the same level of knowledge and understanding as the rest of our team. He has mentored many members and encouraged them in further developing their culinary employment skills.
“Jason treats everyone with the same respect and dignity they deserve, no matter where they come from,” said Kristen Noonan, Envision Unlimited day and employment services North Side administrator, when nominating Whitner for the award. “We didn’t realize how much we needed him on our crew until he demonstrated all the ways that make him our direct support professional hero.”
For Board member Mark Jak, who earned the Outstanding Family Member award, he has been a lifelong friend, caregiver and guardian to his brother Michael since joining the Envision Unlimited family in 2007. Jak frequently communicates with staff about Michael’s care, manages his medical appointments and attends all of his major events. But Jak quickly realized that other members don’t always have the same level of family support.
That’s when he reached out to his family and friends to secure gifts for members around the holidays. His generosity and compassion provided an unforgettable experience and became an annual tradition.
On behalf of everyone at Envision Unlimited, we extend our congratulations to Whitner and Jak. We’re proud to have you in our community!