“What would you like to do today?”
It’s one of the most empowering questions a Direct Support Professional (DSP) can ask the person they support. It does more than plan the day—it gives that person the opportunity to take the lead.
For Tyrice, that question gets to the heart of being a DSP.
Open communication is essential in Tyrice’s work. She brings compassion to every interaction, valuing it as much as any technical skill. That dedication recently earned her an Excellence in Direct Support Award from the Maryland Association of Community Services (MACS).
And while the recognition means a lot to Tyrice, what truly motivates her is the opportunity to advocate for others and make a difference in their lives.
Passion & Profession
Born and raised in Maryland, Tyrice is a proud mother of five and grandmother of twelve. With a family that large, connecting with people comes naturally—and she brings that warmth to her work every day.
Before becoming a DSP, Tyrice spent years working in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. She found meaning in supporting others and discovered that advocacy was an important part of the work she wanted to do. Becoming a DSP let her build a career empowering people to live on their own terms.
“I want the people I work with to know I’m their advocate and have their interests and needs in mind,” said Tyrice. “It’s important to me that they truly feel that support.”
Over time, what began as a career transition grew into work Tyrice truly cares about—one that reflects her compassion and commitment to others. Being a DSP isn’t just Tyrice’s job; it’s a way for her to live her values every day.
The Right Fit
Tyrice first heard about Fello from a friend. After learning about our mission and values, she knew it was the right place for her to grow as a DSP. Two years later, she’s proud to be part of what she believes is something special.
“Fello truly respects the autonomy of the people we support,” said Tyrice. “We encourage people to make their own decisions—not every organization does that. Fello’s emphasis on personal choice really sets us apart.”
Though still relatively new to the team, Tyrice feels a strong sense of belonging. She credits Fello’s supportive environment with helping her do her best work. Just as she’s there for those she supports, her colleagues are there for her, too.
“I’ve made instant connections here. It feels like I’ve known my colleagues for years, even if we’ve only just met. That’s the kind of culture Fello has,” said Tyrice.
Tyrice also values the in-depth training Fello provides, which gives DSPs the confidence and skills to empower people in the community. She believes comprehensive training equips DSPs to support people in living with dignity and making their own choices.
That know-how shows up every day in the patience Tyrice brings, the encouragement she offers, and the consistency that assures people they can count on her.
Connection That Lasts All Day
For Tyrice, the best part of her work is how each day begins.
“I love arriving to pick up Patricia and seeing her greet me with a big smile and genuine excitement,” said Tyrice. “I can’t help but smile, too.”
That first interaction reminds Tyrice of the connection she and Patricia share and the impact they have on each other’s lives. It also sets the tone for the day, which she shapes around Patricia’s interests.
No two days are the same. Some are spent exploring the community or discovering new shops. Others might include a trip to the mall or a quiet afternoon at the library—a favorite for both.
Tyrice knows flexibility is key to letting Patricia guide the day. It always comes back to the same question: “What would you like to do today?”
“One day, Patricia asked if we could sit down together at a nice restaurant, something we hadn’t done before,” recalled Tyrice. “She wanted to give it a try. Now, it’s become one of her favorite things, and we do it often. You only discover those possibilities when you take the time to ask.”
Whether the day brings something new or a familiar favorite, what matters most to Tyrice is that Patricia is in control. When she’s leading the way, every day feels like a success.
The Essence of Advocacy
A DSP’s role is to empower the person they support to make choices and lead their own life. Encouragement matters, and Tyrice knows that kind words can build confidence.
“It’s about how you speak and your tone,” Tyrice said. “You’re not forcing anyone. You pay attention to how they’re feeling and let them take the lead.”
The result is someone ready to participate in the community—confident they have support as they decide where to go and what to do.
Tyrice believes anyone who wants to make a difference and help others belong has what it takes to be a DSP. While every DSP brings their own approach, she points to a few essentials that help people grow and build independence.
“Success in this field takes patience, empathy, and a commitment to honoring each person’s unique preferences,” said Tyrice. “But above all, it’s about your perspective. It’s not just a job—it’s an opportunity to be there for others.”
That mindset is what makes DSP work so meaningful—and what makes Tyrice a strong advocate. By showing up every day and giving the person she supports the space and support to discover their own potential, Tyrice helps Patricia create a life where she makes her own choices, participates in her community, and truly belongs.