Ozuna and Gramolini
Brevard Achievement Center (BAC) is thrilled to announce that Employment Coordinator and Industry Readiness Trainer, Luisa Ozuna, was chosen as one of a handful of Direct Support Professionals to be recognized by the Florida Alliance of Direct Support Professionals, a membership organization established by the Florida Association of Rehabilitation Facilities.
Ozuna began her career at BAC in 2013 as an Education Specialist. Since then she has been promoted twice, currently serving as an Employment Coordinator for both the Employment Services division and within its Industry Readiness Training (IRT) program. Her duties in the IRT program include preparing participants, and their support systems, for work and, due to the many solid business relationships she has cultivated, chairing the program’s business advisory council.
“Luisa epitomizes the essence of an outstanding direct services professional because she makes a difference in the lives of of all she helps,” said Robert Gramolini, vice president of Employment Services, during the award presentation. “She is a great advocate for those she serves and will do whatever it takes to ensure her clients are successful. In addition, Luisa consistently goes above and beyond her job description, as well as funding mandates, and assists in other programs when needed.”
One example of Ozuna’s tenacity is when she was given an opportunity to work with a client who had been attending the Adult Day Training program for 10 years. This client and his family didn’t think that work was an option, but Ozuna proved them wrong. After conducting preference inventories, work skills assessments and provided education and support to his family, she was able to find a job in the community that matched the client’s desires and skills. In addition, Ozuna secured transportation for him so neither he or his family had to worry about his getting to and from work.
Today, not only is the client happy, the employer continues to sing his praises as well.
BAC salutes Luisa Ozuna for this much deserved honor!