“Patience embodies the values that I would look for in someone providing care for my loved one. She demonstrates empathy, patience and has a demeanor that I find approachable and authentic. Her demeanor is kind and gentle, yet she demonstrates strength of spirit and firm boundaries when needed. In working with a young man who is non-verbal and can have difficulty attending to activities and tasks without support, it is clear to see that he trusts her and checks in with her throughout an activity that he might otherwise not be successful with. She prompts him to be as independent as possible, encourages him to make social connections and helps him access community opportunities that all people have a right to enjoy.”

Jonnie’s illustrious and elaborate professional career is evident to all who know him, because of his many notable accomplishments. As a father and husband, he is very dedicated to his beautiful family. He is very passionate and experienced in his care and advocacy for persons with intellectual and developmental disability as his angelic daughter is a person with developmental disability. As a man of faith, Jonnie’s ideas and philosophies of life are anchored in his belief system of empathy, peace, selflessness and justice.

“As a Transition Services Coach, Patience worked with students 18 to 21 years of age, with a variety of disabilities. Disabilities ranged from students having significant needs to moderate needs. She helped more impacted students with personal hygiene, feeding, mobility and supervision needs in the classroom as well as in the community. She also worked with students that were working on more independent work, living, community access and social needs while in the community. Patience was responsible for teaching job readiness skills while in the community with groups of 2 to 4 students. She would use appropriate levels of prompting while fading support, helping students to become more independent. She also worked with 4 to 6 students at a time helping them to learn how to access the community and engage with their peers during recreational activities.”

Jonnie and I have known each other since 2015 having first met when he was serving as the chaplain in the Northwest camp of the Gideons International where I was the treasurer. A friendship quickly grew and continued outside our work in the ministry. As chaplain, Jonnie was very well respected by the membership as he is a skilled speaker and a compassionate listener in meeting their individual needs. In addition to his full-time job, he and his wife, Patience, worked in adult care close to five years and in that time, I was able to see the care and compassion they extended to their clients.

“Patience embodies her name in every sense of the word. Her ability to work with clients, many of whom face significant challenges, is nothing short of remarkable. She consistently demonstrates incredible patience, understanding, and kindness, ensuring that each individual feels seen, valued, and empowered. Her natural empathy and genuine care for others create an environment where her clients can thrive. Patience also excels at building strong relationships with families, colleagues, and community partners. Her collaborative approach ensures that everyone involved feels supported and informed, and her professionalism and integrity inspire trust and respect. She is deeply committed to making a positive impact, and her dedication is evident in everything she does.”