Support Services of Virginia

01/07/2026

Wednesday Warrior - Realizing Success

This week, we proudly recognize Beatrice “Ms. Bea” Smith, a true cornerstone of SSVA. With nearly two decades of service since joining us in 2006, Ms. Bea represents the very best of what it means to be a Direct Support Professional. Her dedication, loyalty, and unwavering compassion have left a lasting impact on our Central Division and on every life she touches.

Throughout her years at SSVA, Ms. Bea has navigated countless changes with strength, grace, and resilience. Even in moments of profound loss, she has shown remarkable courage, turning grief into deeper connection and leaning into her SSVA family with love and purpose. Her ability to adapt, grow, and remain positive, even when faced with challenges outside her comfort zone, is nothing short of inspiring.

Today, Ms. Bea continues to provide exceptional care, always leading with dignity, respect, and integrity. She consistently goes above and beyond for the individuals she supports and generously mentors new staff, setting an example that reflects the heart of our mission. Ms. Bea is a rock star in every sense of the word, and her presence brings light, wisdom, and joy to those around her. We are incredibly grateful for you, Ms. Bea you inspire us all.

01/05/2026

Monday Motivation - Happy First Monday of 2026!

A brand‑new year just placed its first Monday in your hands. Whatever happened in 2025 is now behind you, and today is your reminder that you get to choose the tone for everything ahead.
Start small. Start steady. Start with INTENTION.
Momentum doesn’t come from perfection — it comes from showing up, even when it’s cold, early, or inconvenient.
💙So take a breath.
💛Straighten your shoulders.
💙Step into this week like someone who knows they’re building something meaningful.
Here’s to new energy, new chances, and a year that grows with you.
You’ve got this. 💛💙

12/31/2025

Wednesday Warrior - Realizing Success

Tashama Woodberry joined our Sponsored Residential Program in Lynchburg on August 7, 2025. From the beginning, she demonstrated patience and unwavering optimism as she awaited a placement, motivated by her desire to support someone in achieving the life they envision. When she was asked, on short notice, to welcome someone into her home, she embraced the opportunity without hesitation. Tashama immediately showed her commitment by asking thoughtful, informed questions to ensure she could provide the highest level of care. Her readiness to adjust her life so quickly speaks volumes about her dedication and compassion. In the short time she and the personl have been together, I have already seen meaningful changes—brighter smiles, increased engagement, and a growing sense of comfort. Their joy was especially evident when they dressed up together for the Lynchburg team’s Gala, a moment that highlighted the positive connection forming between them.

It is clear that Tashama is exactly where BT needs to be. I am confident that she will continue to be an exceptional sponsor, one whose presence and support will truly transform the lives entrusted to her. We are deeply grateful to have her as part of our program.

Tashama, you inspire us! 💙💛

12/29/2025

✨ Monday Motivation ✨

As we close out 2025, let’s take a moment to celebrate the strength, compassion, and dedication that carried us through this year. Every challenge we faced became an opportunity to grow, and every act of kindness made a difference.

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Let’s step into the new year with hope, resilience, and a commitment to making every day count. Thank you to our incredible team and community for spreading light and support all year long. Here’s to an amazing 2026! 🌟

12/24/2025

Wednesday Warriors - Realizing Success
Honoring Our Holiday Heroes – SSVA Direct Support Professionals ❤️💚

As the holiday season unfolds, we want to shine a bright light on the true champions of SSVA: our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). While many are gathering with family and friends, these remarkable individuals are working tirelessly to ensure that the people we support experience joy, comfort, and the care they deserve.

Your commitment goes beyond providing essential support—it creates moments of laughter, warmth, and belonging. From festive activities to ensuring every need is met, you make the holidays brighter for those who count on us most
To every DSP working through the holidays:
Thank you for your unwavering dedication, compassion, and heart. You embody the spirit of SSVA and remind us that true celebration is found in service and love.

You are the reason our mission thrives. You are our Wednesday Warriors. 💚❤️

12/22/2025

Monday Motivation - 💚❤️

This season reminds us why we do what we do: building inclusive communities where everyone belongs. As we move through the week, let kindness be your gift and compassion your celebration. In the spirit of Maya Angelou’s Amazing Peace, we choose to speak hope into our work and our relationships—across roles, backgrounds, and beliefs.

“We, Angels and mortals, believers and nonbelievers, look heavenward and speak the word aloud. Peace.” — Maya Angelou, Amazing Peace [sacompassion.net]

This week, let’s spread peace—one thank‑you, one quiet space, and one person‑centered act at a time. ❤️💚

12/17/2025

Wednesday Warrior - Realizing Success

Patty Garris joined SSVA in 2022, and from the very beginning she has been an incredibly valued and trusted DSP. Patty doesn’t just build relationships—she truly connects. She takes the time to get to know each person she supports, learning what they enjoy, what makes them feel comfortable, and how to bring out their best. You can count on her to bring this out of our customers when she is on shift. She is kind, and patient and has genuine interest in others; this makes her stand out every single day.

Outside of work, Patty loves getting new tattoos, trying fun hairstyles, spending quality time with her son, and going on cruises whenever she can.

Thank you for all you do Patty. You inspire us! 💙💙

12/15/2025

🎄✨ Monday Motivation ✨🎄

Start with Gratitude: The holiday season is a reminder of warmth, kindness, and connection. Begin your Monday by listing three things you’re grateful for—it sets the tone for joy and productivity.

Embrace the Festive Energy: Think of this week as wrapping up the year like a beautifully tied bow. Every task you complete is another ribbon on your holiday package of accomplishments.

Spread Cheer: Motivation isn’t just about pushing yourself—it’s about lifting others. A kind word, a smile, or even sharing a holiday treat can spark positivity that comes back to you.

Visualize the Finish Line: With the year’s end in sight, imagine yourself stepping into the new year lighter, stronger, and ready. Each effort today is a gift to your future self.

Holiday Mantra: “I shine brighter than the holiday lights, and my energy is the gift I give myself today.”

🎅 So grab your coffee, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and let this Monday be the start of a week filled with festive focus and unstoppable momentum. 💙💛

12/10/2025

Wednesday Warrior - Realizing Success

If you’ve ever walked into SSVA's Hampton Roads Day Program and seen a bright smile waiting for you, chances are—it was Sharrel Wiggins! She joined SSVA in 2019 as a DSP and quickly became known for her positive energy and willingness to jump in wherever needed. In 2023, she was promoted to Site Coordinator, and she’s been rocking the role ever since!

She helps with appointments, provides direct support, encourages staff, and somehow manages to spread joy everywhere she goes.

Sharrel is person-centered, pleasant, and professional—and when she’s not making a difference at work, she’s enjoying her family and being a grandmother to her grandchildren.

Thank you, Sharrel, for being the bright light that you are! Your inspire us! 💙💛

12/08/2025

Monday Motivation - Choose Joy!

As we move through the holiday season, let’s remember that meaning comes from moments, not things. Every interaction is a chance to create warmth, kindness, and connection. Whether it’s supporting a colleague, uplifting someone we serve, or simply sharing a smile, these small acts make a big difference.

This week, let’s commit to:
✅ Giving generously—time, attention, and encouragement.
✅ Living intentionally—focus on what matters most.
✅ Celebrating together—because our SSVA family thrives on unity and care.

The holidays remind us that our work is more than tasks—it’s about people and purpose. Let’s make this season meaningful by showing up with compassion and gratitude.

You’ve got this. Let’s finish the year strong and spread joy everywhere we go! 💚

12/03/2025

Wednesday Warrior - Realizing Success

Kim Shelton joined SSVA's Lynchburg team in March 2006, and from the very beginning, she has been a shining light in our community. As a trainer, Kim has guided us with wisdom and care, ensuring we stayed in compliance while making every class fun, engaging, and full of knowledge.

Beyond her professional role, Kim’s heart shines even brighter. She is a proud sponsor to two lovely ladies, sharing in their joy and giving just as much love as she receives in return. Alongside them, Kim’s life is enriched by her devoted husband and their adorable little dog, who bring her endless happiness.

Kim has a gift for spreading cheer—especially during the holidays, when her decorating brings warmth and delight to everyone around her. Her beautiful smile is a reminder of the kindness she carries and visiting her is always a joy.

Most importantly, Kim ensures that the ladies she supports have everything they need to live lives filled with love, laughter, and precious memories. She is a woman who truly cares for everyone she knows, and if you are lucky enough to know Kim, you are blessed indeed.

✨ Kim Shelton is not just a Wednesday Warrior—she is a daily inspiration. 💙💛

12/01/2025

"The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals is deeply disheartened by the President’s recent use of the “R-word” to attack Governor Tim Walz." Read more at link below.

The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals is deeply disheartened by the President’s recent use of the “R-word” to attack Governor Tim Walz. In his Thanksgiving message, the President chose language that has long inflicted pain on people with intellectual and developmental disabili...