TRC honors three employees for outstanding efforts.

Wendy Stimson, center, poses with Norma J. Smith's daughters, who also work for TRC: Melissa Rasmussen, left, a Job Coach, and Sherri Eccles, a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Joanne Bevan, right, Director of Residential Services.

The Resource Center presented its three major employee awards at its annual Service Recognition Luncheon.

Wendy Stimson received the Norma J. Smith Award for excellence in direct support.  Wendy, a 24-year employee who currently is serving as the temporary Assistant Residence Manager at TRC's home on Pleasantview Drive in Jamestown, was recognized for her efforts as a Community Living Skills Instructor at the apartments on Benedict Avenue in Jamestown.

In addition to filling in as an Assistant Manager, Wendy serves as a staff mentor and a behavioral support expert.  She also supports individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving their greatest level of independence, advocates for them and encourages them to advocate for themselves, said Anthony Prinzi, Assistant Executive Director for Labor Relations, who announced the awards.

The award was established in honor of the late Norma J. Smith, who worked at TRC from 1983 to 1991.

Lisa Bongiorno, left, receives her award from Virginia Vath, Assistant Executive Director for Quality Assurance & Quality Improvement and Staff Training. Denise Jones, right, Associate Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer.

The Trainer of the Year Award was presented to Lisa Bongiorno, who has been with TRC for five years.  Lisa, an Applied Behavioral Science Specialist, instructs staff in both physical techniques and practice strategies when dealing with behavioral issues.  She has assisted staff at TRC homes in learning ways to diffuse emotional situations without using physical interventions.

Tony stated that one of the people who nominated Lisa said that "she has a down-to-earth approach that staff and participants understand.  She is an advocate for all, so it's a win-win situation in assisting our participants.  More staff learn to understand their job due to her trainings."

Jane Young

The Joseph Trusso Jr. Employee of the Year Award went to Jane Young, who has worked for TRC for 31 years.  She is the Site Supervisor for the Jamestown Rehabilitation Services Program.

Tony said that besides being an excellent employee in her job, Jane goes above and beyond by volunteering for many TRC initiatives and serving as the official photographer for many TRC and TRC Foundation events.  Last summer, Jane was one of four employees who agreed to oversee 10 individuals with disabilities living in the community, so they could have the opportunity to attend TRC's week at Camp Onyahsa.

The award is named in honor of Joe Trusso, who served on TRC's Board of Directors from 1967 to 2005 and was a strong advocate for employees and individuals with disabilities.  Joe was on hand to present the award.

Jane was unable to attend the luncheon so Mike Volk, Director of Rehabilitation and Employment Services, accepted the award for her.

The three award recipients each received a trophy.