Bill has worked for ViaQuest Day Services in Westerville for 2 years. Prior to entering this field, he was a realtor in Florida. His passion to help others is what keeps him going. He loves his job, is enthusiastic and on time for everything that he does.
When Bill Baptista was chosen by his agency to attend the 2015 DSP Summit, he had no idea that his career as a DSP would be taken to a new level. Arriving early to the Summit he was greeted and welcomed by Bethany Toledo, the Executive Director of OADSP. As the day progressed, Bill met some of the DSP Council members.
His story however, truly begins with the game “Let’s Make a Deal”. Bill won the grand prize, an all -‐ expenses paid trip to Lousiville, Kentucky for the 1st National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) Conference. As an added bonus, he would be travelling and staying with the DSP Council. I was concerned Bill would have some reservations about traveling, and sharing a hotel room with people that he didn’t know. But Bill had no concerns and fit right in! He had gotten to know some of the council members during the Summit and found them to be an energetic and friendly group. Bill prides himself in being a people person and quickly gained 7 new friends. The opportunity to be part of a much bigger picture was in his future.
After spending two days at the National Conference with the council, Bill knew that he wanted to be a part of the group and he wanted to help them accomplish their goals. Bill has a strong desire to help DSPs get the recognition that they deserve. He also wants to have a hand in helping others continue their education. The council was accepting applications and he immediately applied. Bill was chosen as the 8th member of the DSP Council.
When asked what he hopes to accomplish by joining the council, he proudly responded with this statement.
“I hope to reach as many DSPs as possible to encourage them to continue learning and to grow in this field. I want to help them be the best that they can be.”
Bill Baptista has now been an official DSP Council member since June of 2015. He is a great addition to the group and has proven to be a team player. During my interview with Bill, I asked him what he has learned from the council.
“I have learned how to improve my skills in public speaking and a lot about working together as a cohesive group.”
Thank you Bill! It has been an honor and privilege to work beside you. You will do great things! DSPs all over this great state will learn and grow through the work that you are doing. – Donna Rhodes, OADSP E-flash Editor
