BLOG : Meet Concepts’ NYC Personal Assistant Honorees

Of the thousands of Personal Assistants that are employed by Concepts Consumers in New York City, ten were recently recognized for their outstanding work that goes above and beyond the call of duty. Concepts of Independence was honored to host these extraordinary individuals at a celebratory luncheon that took place on Monday April 25^th in Brooklyn, NY. Here is a snapshot of the stories shared and the people that came together for this happy occasion:

Consumer Milvia Perez recognized her wonderful and long-standing Personal Assistant Josefa Molina, who has been with Milvia through 16 years of personal growth, battling illnesses, finding love, and becoming a mom. Josefa even worked to help get Milvia the freedom to attend college. “Her love, respect, loyal, caring, selfless service has helped me become who I am today.”

Phillip Bennett was honored for his work for Consumer T.K. Small. T.K. and Phillip had a long journey working together through ups and downs, and developed a very strong relationship as a result. In T.K.’s words, “Phil has grown to being an extended member of the family… It is people like Phillip who make consumer directed services such an important program and service.”

Personal Assistant Wynona Johnson was recognized by her Consumer, who is deeply grateful for the respect and dignity that Wynona extends to him. “She somehow gently instills in me the will to live and not give up on living. She restores energy, dignity, and life back within my body, mind, and spirit.”

Personal Assistant Charlene Laguer was recognized for her work caring for one of Concepts’ child Consumers, for the extra love and support she extends beyond her work. “Charlene has become a true friend to this family, and has been there for us on all levels (physically, emotionally and spiritually.) She really touched our hearts when she went with me to see him perform a musical at his school on her own time.”

Personal Assistant Donna Harris assists an elderly Consumer and was nominated for her kind trustworthy capable work that put the family at great ease. “Donna is not only hardworking and dedicated, but very compassionate and she treats my mother like she would her own.”

Some of the honorees were sadly unable to attend, but we would like to mention them here:

Surojnie Appalsammy
Magdalena Orhean
Annie Saray Moreno
Luis Vargas
Raul Velilla

Concepts is deeply grateful to these incredible Personal Assistants, and their dedication and hard work. We know that we are unable to recognize so many more out there (but we encourage Consumers to nominated your PAs next year to be selected!). In addition the PAs we recognize here, we are grateful to every single PA who has gone above and beyond the call of the duty in working with their Consumer.

Written by Meghan Taylor