Making a Difference, One Person at a Time

Community Integration Coordinator Nicole Cohen and Scott P.

Scott P.’s journey has, by his own accounts, not been an easy one. Spending most of his youth in a foster home, Scott came to Fellowship Health Resources (FHR) Maine in 2007 as a young man in his mid-twenties. The transition to living more independently was, at times, a struggle for Scott. He needed support from staff at Broadway House in many areas of his day-to-day activities. Together, they have succeeded in meeting many of Scott’s personal goals. Upon his arrival, preparing his own breakfast cereal was a challenge. Today, Scott cooks a very tasty meatloaf, and has made some of the biggest whoopee pies known to Maine.

Throughout the past three years, there have been many teaching and learning opportunities for both Scott and Broadway House staff. As with many of the Fellowship’s consumers, socialization and interaction within the community can be very stressful, and quite scary. To help with this transition, FHR Maine hired Community Integration Coordinator Nicole Cohen. Nicole has worked very hard in her new position and has helped Scott to reach some very difficult goals. Their one-on-one time together has given Scott the confidence to spend more time in the community, allowing him to face his social anxieties and cope with life’s challenges in what he calls “the real world.”

Recently, Scott and Nicole worked very diligently to achieve his dream of getting his driving permit. Nicole spent the time to help Scott read and understand the text of the study guide and to learn the rules of the road. At times, Nicole broke the text down word-by-word so that Scott could understand and grasp the context. This included changing her work hours to fit into Scott’s schedule. With Nicole reading him the written part of the driver’s exam, Scott’s dream came true and he passed his initial written driver’s exam to receive his driving permit. Scott’s next goal is to take lessons to learn how to drive. With Nicole in his corner, he’s confident that this, too, will soon be another accomplishment.

At times, Scott was a difficult student ,as his focus was more on his leisure-time activities. Recognizing Nicole’s diligence and consistent positive attitude in helping Scott to achieve his dreams, Day Program Coordinator Sherri Grant nominated Nicole for FHR’s Service Star Award. Developed in January 2005, the Service Star Award Program allows staff to recognize their peers’ accomplishments and dedication to their roles in providing services for those in FHR’s care. Recipients are presented with a FHR Service Star Pin, along with a certificate signed by President and CEO Joe Dziobek, acknowledging the individual’s accomplishment. 

 
Regional Director Brent Baily presents Nicole with her Service Star Award