GRACE A. WADUD
Akron,OH
Summary
Compassionate professional skilled in engaging diverse individuals and enhancing their quality of life. Expertise in effective communication and addressing concerns to promote personal satisfaction. Committed to fostering social and emotional well-being through positive interactions that yield productive outcomes.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Independent Provider
Summit DD
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
01.2026 - Current
- Supported individuals with disabilities in daily living activities and personal care.
- Developed individualized plans to enhance client independence and well-being.
- Facilitated group activities to promote social interaction and community engagement.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to coordinate client services and support.
- Monitored client progress and reported changes to interdisciplinary teams.
- Maintained accurate documentation of services provided and client needs.
- Advocated for clients' rights and needs within the community and service networks.
- Maintained clean and well-organized environment for client happiness and safety.
- Helped individuals develop independent living skills by teaching them how to manage finances, grocery shop and cook meals at home.
- Accompanied client to scheduled appointments and grocery shopping.
- Implemented safety measures to protect the well-being of clients in their homes or out in the community.
- Maintained accurate records of client information including documentation of services provided.
- Identified potential risks or hazards within the client's environment and took steps to mitigate them.
Childcare Home Center Provider
Childcare Home Center Provider
06.2014 - 01.2024
- Developed and implemented a comprehensive curriculum that incorporated educational activities such as arts and crafts, storytelling and physical activities, resulting in 25% improvement in children’s cognitive and motor skills.
- Maintained safe, clean environment through regular sanitization of toys and play equipment, contributing to 20% reduction in illnesses and accidents.
- Communicated with parents and guardians, providing updates on child progress and addressing concerns, achieving 95% satisfaction rate.
Rehabilitation Specialist
Community Support Services
04.2013 - 10.2013
- Coordinated delivery of psychiatric, medical, and vocational evaluations and assessments to identify individual needs.
- Coordinated and participated in the development of an interdisciplinary Service Plan (ISP) that included services and assistance necessary to achieve specific objectives.
- Assisted the individual on achieving the objectives in the ISP and maximizing independence and productivity through support and training in the use of personal and community resources.
- Facilitated development of social support networks involving relatives, friends, and volunteers to alleviate life stresses from disabilities.
- Accompanied individuals to appointments and activities while providing support in daily living skills.
- Maintained relevant documentation and provided statistical reports in accordance with agency documentation standards.
Legal Advocate
Domestic Violence Project Inc
05.2010 - 03.2013
- Reviewed court dockets to identify defendants and ensure appropriate legal action for domestic violence victims.
- Collaborated with Prosecutor’s office to facilitate victims’ acquisition of Temporary Protection Orders.
- Advocated for increased bond amounts, denial of Pre-Trial Release, and amendments to elevate criminal charges to enhance victim protection.
- Consulted with Pre-trial Release Program to discuss safety concerns of victims for defendant release.
- Advocated for victims during court proceedings to ensure their needs were met.
- Collected police reports and followed up with victims involved in domestic violence cases.
- Communicated with law enforcement regarding charges filed or pending.
Home Health Care-Aide
Absolute Health Services
04.2009 - 08.2010
- Delivered essential care services to clients, focusing on hygiene, toileting, mobility, and nutrition.
- Guided clients in adjusting to new routines, fostering comfort and independence during transitions.
- Treated clients with respect and full recognition of their rights and individuality at all times.
- Ensured cleanliness and safety of client and work areas, promoting a healthy and organized environment.
- Utilized standards and principles to prevent the spread of infection and contagious diseases.
- Coordinated errands for clients, including grocery shopping and prescription retrieval, to support their daily needs.
- Reported any change in client’s condition immediately to the supervisor or on-call employee.
- Performed respective tasks even when involving unpleasant conditions.
Case Worker Children Services (Adoption Unit)
Stark County Jobs & Family Services
04.2007 - 06.2010
- Managed caseload of child and family placements, including cases of abuse, neglect, or suspected abuse/neglect, ensuring timely and appropriate interventions.
- Coordinated with mental health counselors and social agency professionals to develop comprehensive support plans for children and families.
- Facilitated development of alternative placement plans, ensuring best possible outcomes for children in care.
- Prepared for and attended case reviews and staffing conferences.
- Represented agency in court hearings.
- Filed all legal documents pertaining to child placement.
- Prepared case histories and maintained necessary records.
- Participated in conferences, workshops, in-service trainings, and other meetings to receive and/or give information on social services issues.
- Performed tasks to improve overall workflow and efficiency.
Education
Certified - Notary Republic
On-Line Notary Republic Training
Frank LaRose 51st Ohio Secretary Of State10-2023
Bachelor of Arts - Social Work
University of Akron
85 E. Buchtel Ave.08-2003
Associate of Applied Science - Criminal Justice
University of Akron
85 E. Buchtel Ave.05-1999
Certificate - Private Security
Wooster Business College
25 E. Market St.06-1985
Skills
- Curriculum development
- Early childhood education
- Child assessment
- Safety management
- Customer service
- Interpersonal communication
Accomplishments
- Nominated & honored at the 40th Annual Women's & Scholarship Luncheon
Theme: "Saluting Women of Influence, Power, & Purpose-Keeping It Moving" with a 2023 Award from the Ohio Black Women's Leadership Caucus Inc., Akron Chapter
Timeline
Independent Provider
Summit DD
01.2026 - Current
Childcare Home Center Provider
Childcare Home Center Provider
06.2014 - 01.2024
Rehabilitation Specialist
Community Support Services
04.2013 - 10.2013
Legal Advocate
Domestic Violence Project Inc
05.2010 - 03.2013
Home Health Care-Aide
Absolute Health Services
04.2009 - 08.2010
Case Worker Children Services (Adoption Unit)
Stark County Jobs & Family Services
04.2007 - 06.2010
Certified - Notary Republic
On-Line Notary Republic Training
Bachelor of Arts - Social Work
University of Akron
Associate of Applied Science - Criminal Justice
University of Akron
Certificate - Private Security
Wooster Business College