Director of Helen Kaplan Center Marta Garavito Celebrates 35 Years
At Citizens Options Unlimited, it’s not uncommon to meet staff members who have spent 10, 20, 30 or even 40 years of their career serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). On March 20, members of the team who have reached 25 to 40 years of service were honored at the Milestone Reception at the Brookville Mansion.
Among those being celebrated was Helen Kaplan Center Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) Director Marta Garavito, who recently celebrated her 35-year work anniversary on Feb. 6. Marta has made a profound difference in the lives of countless people who have benefitted from her care and compassion.
Marta’s Milestones
On March 6, 1989, Marta started her new job as an assistant for a day service that was provided in what is now Brookville Center for Children’s Services’ Education Center.
The position started out as a convenient job for Marta, with a schedule that let her drop off and pick up her son from the bus stop. But soon, she realized her talent for helping people with disabilities communicate their wants and needs.
“My supervisor at the time was very innovative and liked to try different things,” Marta said. “One of the pilot programs was a total communication situation, where we had a treatment room for people who had complex behavior needs and didn’t have communication means. So, we developed a program where we worked on increasing communication skills.”
For example, Marta explained, there was a woman who loved to go on the swing. The woman learned that if she picked up a picture of a swing, then staff would bring her to the swing set.
“Some of the people had picture boards, some of them had sign language,” Marta said. “Whatever mode of communication they had, that’s how we communicated with them.”
Throughout her years at the agency, Marta has provided a wide range of support, including as a treatment coordinator, the equivalent of what is today a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional. She helped to ensure that people supported had everything they needed and wanted to thrive.
“Even back then, we had the person-centered philosophy,” Marta said. “You work on their needs but based off of what they want and what they like.”
In 2003, Marta became the assistant director of Helen Kaplan Center, which provides long-term supports for 59 people with behavioral and medical complexities. Over her 21 years at Helen Kaplan Center, the now director has made strong connections with people supported, their families and staff members.
To bring everyone closer and make new memories, parties are held outdoors, especially when the weather is nice. Petting zoos, party games like limbo and water balloon toss, delicious food and customized decorations made during day services create a unique and festive atmosphere.
“It’s both for the staff and the people we support,” Marta said. “It’s fun just to forget about the daily routine and just go outside and enjoy ourselves.”