Magnolia Sanders has worked as a DSP for nearly 20 years.  This profession has become an important part of her identity.  The following interview will give you a snapshot into her life.
Q:  What initially attracted you to become a DSP?  I had been doing respite for 17 years prior to taking a position with Community Living.  For eight of those 17 years, I was a Family Home Provider, and I loved it.

Q:  What do you enjoy most about your work?  I love just getting to spend time with the ladies at my house.  Also Ann N., my house manager, is a great person to work for.  She makes my job enjoyable.
Q:  What are the biggest challenge(s) you face in your job?  For me, getting emotionally attached to the clients is the hardest part of the job.  I’ve been doing this work for a long time, and when one of my ladies hurt, I hurt.

Q:  How do you measure your success?  It’s really simple: I know I’ve been successful when one of the residents says that she loves me, or that the residents really missed me while I was gone.  When they say kind things to me, I know I’ve made a difference in their life.

Q:  Have your family/friends been supportive of you working in this field?  Yes.  They’ve always been very supportive.

Q:  How has working in this field affected/changed your life?  To me, this work is like a calling—it gives my life greater purpose.  When I get home from work, I know that I’ve made a difference in someone else’s life.

Q:  What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now?  I see myself doing exactly what I’m doing right now.  I love this work and this field and have no desire to leave.

Q:  What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?  I like to read, I like being outside, I like crocheting, and I like just spending time with my family.