Raisa Lastre, a compassionate and dedicated individual, has been a part of the Quest team since 2014. With nearly nine years of service at Quest, Raisa has profoundly impacted the lives of those she cares for.
As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and Certified Nursing Assistant at Quest’s Skipper Road Cluster, Raisa’s daily routine involves attending to the unique needs of the individuals she supports. Starting her day at 6:45 a.m. from Monday to Friday, she ensures that each person receives personalized care, including breakfast and personal grooming. She facilitates their participation in Quest Training Center programs and tends to those who stay at home, assisting with personal care, such as repositioning, and engaging in various activities.
Raisa’s motivation to work with individuals with developmental disabilities stems from her innate desire to care for others. Aside from the demanding nature of the job, Raisa’s willingness to help others shine brings an abundance of light to Quest. For Raisa, it’s about making a difference in someone’s life, being their support and witnessing the positive impact of her efforts. “It’s a great feeling to help someone who looks to you for guidance. Even if they cannot tell me they need help or express their gratitude, I can feel their appreciation for what we do to improve their lives,” says Raisa.
Workplace culture at Quest has been instrumental in Raisa’s growth. Originating from Cuba, where Spanish is her first language, Raisa had to overcome language barriers while adapting to a new work environment. Initially struggling with English proficiency, she found support and encouragement from her colleagues and continuously improved her skills to better care for her clients. She believes in offering the same encouragement to new team members by sharing knowledge and guiding them to ensure they provide clients with the best care possible.
According to Raisa, what sets a good DSP apart is “…not just professional qualifications, but a compassionate heart and a willingness to learn. Understanding the needs of the individuals and being patient and attentive are vital qualities that make a difference in this field.” Amanda Cohen, QIDP (Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional) at Quest’s Skipper Road Cluster, emphasized Raisa’s hard work and dedication, “Raisa is a first-shift DSP who is the definition of dependable. She takes her role as a DSP seriously and is known for advocating for the residents at Skipper Road Cluster. Raisa is a firm believer in making sure each resident is treated as an individual while also maintaining their privacy and dignity. She shows love and compassion for all the residents here at SRC and speaks up for them when they are unable to do so themselves.”
Raisa emphasizes that the individuals she works with deserve love and respect despite societal misperceptions. She stresses the importance of treating them as equals, understanding their preferences, and allowing them to make life choices.
Initially apprehensive about the clients’ fragility, she embraced the challenge, learning and evolving in her role. Her dedication and attentiveness have ensured a safe and caring environment for all, and she hopes to continue making a positive impact until the day she retires. Raisa’s journey with Quest is a testament to the transformative power of love and dedication, reminding us of the importance of making a difference in the lives of others.
