April 2025

At Fairfield DD, creating a brand of excellence is one of our core values.  This value was the focus of our recent All Staff Professional Development Day.  Change is constant in our field.  As we adapt to change and move our mission forward, we remain committed to doing so with a high level of service to all Fairfield DD stakeholders.  Our keynote speaker for the day gave insight into how to embrace changes and make the best of them. 

Team members spent the day learning from experts on how to improve the service and hospitality provided to anyone they work with. We had a great discussion around what excellence looks like at Fairfield DD and what steps we can take to get better every day. Every phone call, email, and conversation is important as we work to build a community that recognizes the value of every person.  

Best,

David

Community Connections

Forward 2040

Fairfield DD's vision is to build a community that values every person. We have been planning for the future and wanted to hear from some in our community about what they would like to see.

We asked 2 simple questions: What do you want your life to look like in 15 years? What do you want our community to look like in 15 years?

This spring, we will be sharing a series of videos highlighting people's hopes. Click below to see the first one!

Explore Downtown Lancaster Virtually!

There is a new way to explore Downtown Lancaster! Destination Downtown Lancaster partnered with the team at GeoPro Imaging to create a virtual tour of the businesses in the historic downtown. Each location has contact and accessibility information as well as multiple pictures of the inside of each space, making it feel like you are there. It's a great way to plan and explore, even from the comfort of your own home. It also has the ability to explore in virtual reality!

Fairfield DD is collaborating with GeoPro to map our assistive technology space this summer, as well as planning some other activities so that people in our community can virtually experience even more spaces!

Around Fairfield DD

Fairfield DD Professional Development

Members of the Fairfield DD Team have been learning and sharing their knowledge through professional development events this spring. Staff recently attended the PAR (Professionals, Advocates, and Resources) Conference. While there, LaTisha Subham (pictured left) presented on tips and tools Fairfield DD utilizes in our data management system. Of all the counties using the program, Fairfield DD leads the way in integration and use of the system.

With support from the Fairfield County Commissioners, Fairfield DD team members have been growing their leadership skills through the Professional Development Academy. During the 12-week program, participants join others from around the country as they complete learning and discussion assignments. Staff who completed it include Lindsey Hanes, Charity Jacobs, Katie O'Brien, Carly Guse, and Letisha Weist. Assistant Superintendent Cindy Hillberry completed the level 2 training. Congratulations go to all!

Meet Shelly Holt, who is an Individual Support Coordinator (ISC) working with adults. This role is all about empowering people to become more independent in their daily lives. The ISC ensures that individuals have access to basic needs like food, shelter, transportation, and help with medications, while also guiding them on how to manage these essentials themselves over time. ISCs take the time to understand each person's goals, likes, dislikes, and changing needs, adapting plans to provide the right support at the right moment. By working closely with families, healthcare providers, and other team members, Shelly builds a strong network to help individuals move forward with confidence and stability.

A key focus of this role is flexibility and celebrating progress. The ISC frequently updates the plan to match each person's evolving needs, always aiming to be as supportive yet non-intrusive as possible. They connect people with resources, teach providers how to help individuals reach their goals, and even assist with finding homes and roommates for greater independence. The ultimate mission is to empower individuals to rely less on support, enjoy their accomplishments, and lead happier, more self-sufficient lives. Through their work, Fairfield DD’s team of ISCs support people to take control of their futures while navigating challenges and celebrating successes along the way.

Fairfield DD's mission is to bring about a vibrant community where people lead lives of greater independence and make meaningful contributions.