Quality Lives for People with Developmental Disabilities

Bertha Chavez

What I Do...

My job at Richmond consists of picking up program participants in the morning, providing support for them throughout the day and getting them back home in the late afternoon. I work with adults with developmental disabilities on basic writing and communication skills, involvement in community-based activities and the development of job skills. Some participants work at places like St. John’s Hospital and The Salvation Army.

Who I Am...

I am originally from Ecuador and am blessed to have three healthy children. I also have a nephew who has Down Syndrome so I know the impact that a child with a disability has on a family. I know that the individuals I work with feel comfortable with me. I have come to feel like they are part of my family. By working with them so closely everyday, I help them express things and in a way, I become their
voice. I always try to have a big smile on my face, joke around with them but know that the hard work we all do here is so important to maintaining and improving the quality of all their lives.

What Richmond Means To Me...

Since the day I began working here about 15 years ago, I have been so happy. I feel appreciated for who I am and  what I do. We work as a team so the people we work with get comprehensive and compassionate care. I see the staff always attentive, patient and loving. We all receive continuing training to keep us up-to-date and informed.

My Sense of Purpose...

I live my life by a line from the old Beatles song The End "Love you get is equal to the love you give". I truly feel that I was chosen for this type of work. In this world some people need more support than others and I am blessed to be able to provide this type of support. Even though I love dancing, music and singing, I know that what I do for other people is the most important thing in my life.