Gilda Carillo Wins CDSA DSP of the Year Award

Gilda Carillo, Life Enrichment Day Program Coordinator, Noah Homes

Gilda is one of five Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) being selected statewide by California Disability Services Association (CDSA) for the 2025 DSP Empowerment Awards. This awards program honors DSPs who demonstrate talent, dedication, and professionalism.

With great joy and professionalism, Gilda walks alongside our most fragile residents: individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who are also experiencing dementia and are unable to attend a traditional day program. While these individuals face barriers such as reduced stamina and memory issues, Gilda focuses on what they are capable of doing, supporting their independence and self-advocacy. She creates meaningful, person-centered experiences and truly gets to know each individual’s personal goals, hopes, and dreams, so she can meet people where they are and honor their unique needs.

Gilda with Two of the Residents in the Life Enrichment Day Program

Gilda also knows that being an active participant in a social community is essential for overall well-being and happiness, and she makes every effort to make this possible for all individuals, especially those who are typically prone to an isolating chapter in their lives.

She ensures that the residents of Noah Homes experience a productive and social environment, complete with activities, outings, and celebrations, just like everyone else! Her efforts continue to provide the highest quality of life for folks, for as long as they are with us.  

Finally, Gilda brings a positive mindset to her role and has profoundly impacted the mindsets, overall happiness, and lives of those around her. For these reasons and more, we are honored to celebrate Gilda and the DSP community today and every day! You can watch Gilda receiving her award here.