Michael Coble has worked for Connect Employment Services as a Direct Support Professional for nearly 25 years. Throughout that time, he has primarily supported one individual, Adam, and he is a highly valued senior member of his support network. Michael has truly dedicated his life and career to this work, and to supporting Adam to live an inclusive and valued life in the community.
Throughout his years of support, Michael strived to foster Adam’s independence at his place of employment. Adam has worked in the recycling program at Red River College for many years, and based on his extensive experience and excellent work performance, he was hired on by a custodial company when those services were contracted out. Adam’s success at work has mirrored Michael’s success, thanks to Michael’s mentorship and their shared commitment, reliability and work ethic. Through Michael’s support and advocacy, Adam has had the opportunity to build a valued place at his workplace and in the community.
Michael’s commitment to Connect and to Adam has been demonstrated in many ways. From
Michael stepping up to provide relief support and coverage to other people supported
by Connect, to accompanying Adam to participate in trips across the country using his
own vacation time. Going above and beyond has always the standard, not the exception.
Recently, Michael was nominated and selected as the winner of the 2024 Art Ratson Memorial Award through the Manitoba Supported Employment Network. The award recognizes Direct Support Professionals who have achieved excellence in service delivery, commitment to the people they support, and the example they set for others working in the field.
We are proud to call Michael our colleague and team member. In the words of Connect’s CEO, Krista Bissett, thanks for being an ambassador, leading the way and demonstrating what it means to be a great DSP.
Mike had this to say about his recognition:
“I would like to thank MSEN for the award and Connect for the incredible support they have given me over 25 years. I’ve been very blessed to have a great support team.
I work with an amazing guy named Adam. I’d like to share a story of how much an impact he has made. When we first started working at his place of employment, there was one colleague who was a bit gruff and kind of kept to himself. After several years he made a point to approach me and shared a compliment saying Adam is the hardest working guy at this place. That just filled my heart with goodness. It’s nice to see that we can make a difference in the lives of the people we support and that it’s being noticed by others as well.”
(Mike is pictured here receiving his award from Ernie Thiessen on behalf of MSEN.)