By Nicole Lemire
As a newly appointed site manager of a residential program with new residents and new staff, many would be overwhelmed, but not Douglas. He sees it as an opportunity to build a program that is full of positive energy, good communication, and opportunities for growth.
A former construction worker, Douglas felt a calling to change his career path into something that would help others. He had no experience working with people with disabilities, but jumped headfirst into the world of human services, and grew to love the work. This passion for caregiving is something that Douglas has in common with his wife, Laura, who works at BCArc’s Center for Development.
“This job sticks with you forever,” he said. “I love making the individuals smile.”
Douglas began at BCArc as a direct care professional, and eventually was promoted to assistant site manager. A month ago, he was promoted again to site manager and began at the BCArc home he now oversees. For Douglas, the transition has been smooth thanks to his staff, who work well as a team to keep the individuals in the home happy and healthy.
As a site manager, he remains as hands-on with the individuals as possible.
“The individuals we serve are a special part of my life. They’re like family.”
“We’re an active house. I like to make sure that they’re doing a variety of activities,” he said. “We’ll go out for coffee, walk around the lake, car rides — whatever it is they like to do. My goal is to make sure that they are having interactions in the community every day.”
Douglas found it challenging at times to leave the BCArc home he previously worked at because of the bonds he’d formed with the individuals, although he is grateful for this opportunity and excited for the future. In his new role as site manager, he has already grown close with the residents.
“The individuals we serve are a special part of my life. They’re like family.”
For anyone interested in pursing a career in human services, Douglas encourages them to give it a chance, be open to learning, and to accept constructive criticism.
Moving forward, Douglas sees a long future at BCArc, hoping to stay in this field and continue growing in his career. He gives credit to his mentor Carlton Deen, a BCArc residential supervisor, for seeing his potential and encouraging him to commit to longevity in this career path.
“There’s no short term for me,” Douglas said. “I want to keep building this program and do better for the individuals everyday.”
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