Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Laura Williams

397 Wallace Run Beaver Falls,PA
Laura Williams

Summary

Compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional with extensive experience at Merakey Allegheny Valley School. Skilled in individualized support planning and crisis management, I successfully enhanced client independence and well-being. Recognized for building strong relationships and advocating for client rights, I am committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all. Certified in Medication Administration and CPR/AED

Overview

2026
years of professional experience

Work History

Merakey Allegheny Valley School
Beaver Pa

Direct Support Professional
02.2014 - Current

Job overview

Certified Medication Administration and CPR

  • Assisted individuals with daily living activities to promote independence and enhance quality of life.
  • Developed personalized support plans in collaboration with interdisciplinary teams to meet individual needs.
  • Implemented behavioral strategies to improve social skills and reduce challenging behaviors among clients.
  • Provided emotional support and guidance, fostering positive relationships with individuals and their families.
  • Monitored client progress, documenting observations and adjusting care strategies as needed for effectiveness.
  • Trained and mentored new staff on best practices in direct support and client interaction techniques.
  • Advocated for client rights, ensuring access to resources and services within the community framework.
  • Maintained clean, safe, and well-organized patient environment.
  • Documented progress notes thoroughly to track client achievements, concerns, or changes in behavior patterns that may need attention from the interdisciplinary team.
  • Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
  • Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
  • Enhanced quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing compassionate and consistent direct support.
  • Assisted clients in achieving personal goals through tailored care plans and daily skill-building activities.
  • Supported clients with personal care tasks, ensuring their dignity and privacy were maintained at all times.
  • Monitored medication administration, maintaining accurate records to ensure client safety and compliance with prescribed treatment plans.
  • Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices in disability support services.
  • Provided ongoing communication between clients, families, and other service providers to enhance overall care coordination efforts.
  • Assisted disabled clients to support independence and well-being.
  • Maintained a safe and inclusive environment by addressing behavioral challenges with patience and understanding.
  • Facilitated social outings and community integration activities, promoting inclusion and positive experiences for clients.
  • Monitored clients to assess and report physical and behavioral changes to supervisors.
  • Encouraged and supported clients to participate in recreational and leisure activities to promote social interactions and reduce loneliness.
  • Addressed emergency situations calmly and effectively, prioritizing the safety of both clients and staff members involved.
  • Promoted physical well-being by supporting clients in engaging in regular exercise routines or therapeutic activities suited to their abilities.
  • Monitored progress and documented patient health status changes to keep care team updated.
  • Improved client self-sufficiency through teaching essential skills such as meal preparation, housekeeping, and financial management.
  • Developed and implemented individualized care plans to meet individual needs of each client.
  • Assessed clients'' needs on an ongoing basis, making adjustments to support plans as necessary to ensure optimal outcomes.
  • Implemented individualized behavior management plans, reducing incidents of challenging behaviors within the residence.
  • Advocated for clients'' rights within the broader community, raising awareness about issues affecting those with disabilities.
  • Organized recreational events that encouraged relationship building among clients and increased their sense of belonging within the group home setting.
  • Adapted support approaches based on individual client preferences, fostering increased trust and rapport over time.
  • Supported clients in managing their finances and personal administration, fostering greater independence.
  • Coordinated with families and other caregivers, ensuring cohesive approach to client support.
  • Provided emotional and practical support to individuals, fostering positive and supportive living environment.
  • Managed crisis situations effectively, maintaining calm and ensuring safety of clients and staff.
  • Administered medication under supervision, ensuring adherence to healthcare plans.
  • Monitored and reported changes in clients' health and well-being, enabling timely interventions.
  • Conducted daily documentation of clients' progress and incidents, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records.
  • Advocated for clients' needs and rights in various settings, enhancing their quality of life.
  • Enhanced communication skills of non-verbal clients using alternative communication devices.
  • Implemented behavior management plans to address challenging behaviors, promoting safe environment for all.
  • Encouraged healthy lifestyles through nutritional planning and physical activities, improving clients' overall well-being.
  • Enhanced individual care plans by collaborating closely with healthcare professionals, ensuring tailored support for each client.
  • Adapted activities and support strategies to meet changing needs of clients, demonstrating flexibility and creativity.
  • Developed strong rapport with clients, facilitating trust-based relationship for effective support.
  • Organized and participated in recreational activities, contributing to vibrant community life for residents.
  • Assisted with daily living activities, running errands, and household chores.
  • Cooked meals and assisted patients with eating tasks to support healthy nutrition.
  • Assisted patients with bathing, grooming, dressing, and oral hygiene care both in private residences and facilities.
  • Monitored clients' overall health and well-being and noted significant changes.
  • Provided compassionate and patient-focused care to cultivate well-being.
  • Entrusted to handle confidential and sensitive situations in professional matter.
  • Built and maintained rapport with clients and family members to facilitate trusting caregiver relationship.
  • Laundered items, changed sheets and made bed to keep patients' bedroom clean.
  • Completed regular check-ins and progress report for each client.
  • Maintained strong connections within caregiver community to gain continuous knowledge.
  • Recorded patients' pulse, blood pressure and respirations (TPRs) to assess and document important health information.
  • Guided patients to restroom to support bladder and bowel relief requirements.
  • Provided staff coaching, mentoring, and consultation to enhance performance and professional development.
  • Scheduled daily and weekly care hours for client caseload.
  • Replaced bandages, dressings, and binders to care for wounds and encourage healing.
  • Handled incoming mail, bills and invoices and completed appropriate actions.

Sherwood Oaks Retirement Home
Cranberry, PA

Personal Care Assistant
02.2000 - 06.2013

Job overview

  • Assisted residents with daily living activities, ensuring comfort and safety.
  • Monitored and documented residents' health status and changes in condition.
  • Collaborated with healthcare professionals to implement care plans effectively.
  • Provided emotional support and companionship to enhance residents' well-being.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization in resident living areas to promote hygiene.
  • Educated residents on wellness practices and encouraged participation in activities.
  • Implemented safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure a secure environment.
  • Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
  • Assisted with transferring and positioning clients, ensuring proper body mechanics to reduce the risk of injury for both parties.
  • Built strong relationships with clients to deliver emotional support and companionship.
  • Improved client comfort by providing exceptional personal care and maintaining a clean, safe environment.
  • Turned and positioned bedbound patients to prevent bedsores and maintain comfort levels.
  • Engaged patients in meaningful conversation, socialization, and activity while providing personal care assistance.
  • Assisted with dressing guidance, grooming, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
  • Adapted quickly to new client situations, building rapport through active listening skills and an empathetic approach towards individual needs.
  • Contributed to a positive home atmosphere by engaging clients in conversation and recreational activities tailored to their interests.
  • Enhanced client well-being by assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
  • Recognized and reported abnormalities or changes in patients' health status to case manager.
  • Supported clients with mental support and physical activities to accomplish quality of life and sustain needs.
  • Maintained current knowledge of best practices in personal care through ongoing professional development opportunities.
  • Maintained detailed documentation of client progress, sharing updates with family members and healthcare providers as necessary.
  • Supported clients'' mental health by actively listening to concerns and offering compassionate companionship during challenging times.
  • Promoted independence with structured routines and clear communication to support clients in their daily lives.
  • Maintained clean personal areas and prepared healthy meals to support client nutritional needs.
  • Managed household chores efficiently, enabling clients to enjoy a clean living space without added stress or physical strain.
  • Ensured timely medication administration, managing accurate records of dosages and schedules for multiple clients.
  • Monitored and assisted residents through individual service plans.
  • Remained alert to problems or health issues of clients and competently responded.
  • Assisted clients with meal planning and preparation, taking into consideration dietary restrictions and preferences for optimal nutrition.
  • Assisted patients with self-administered medications.
  • Prevented injuries through diligent observation of the environment and prompt intervention when needed during mobility assistance tasks.
  • Collaborated with healthcare professionals to develop individualized care plans addressing each client''s specific needs.
  • Monitored vital signs regularly, promptly reporting any abnormal findings to medical professionals for further evaluation.
  • Planned activities to encourage movement, stretching, and strength building.
  • Developed creative strategies for overcoming obstacles related to mobility or cognitive limitations while promoting maximum functionality in daily tasks.

Sherwood Oaks Retirement Home
Cranberry, PA

Line Cook
02.2000 - 05.2013

Job overview

  • Prepared and cooked meals according to dietary guidelines and resident preferences.
  • Maintained cleanliness of kitchen area, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
  • Assisted in menu planning, incorporating seasonal ingredients to enhance meal offerings.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure timely service during peak dining hours.
  • Managed inventory levels, minimizing waste through effective portion control practices.
  • Implemented improved cooking procedures, enhancing overall food quality and presentation.
  • Provided feedback on resident meal satisfaction, contributing to continuous improvement efforts.
  • Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
  • Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean and safe working environment, adhering to health and safety guidelines.
  • Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
  • Adapted quickly to new recipes and techniques, demonstrating versatility and eagerness to learn from colleagues.
  • Prepared and cooked full course meals based on restaurant recipes and specifications.
  • Prepared food items such as meats, poultry, and fish for frying purposes.
  • Plated and presented all dishes to match established restaurant standards.
  • Changed and sanitized cutting boards, benches, and surfaces between tasks to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
  • Checked food temperature regularly to verify proper cooking and safety.
  • Expedited service during peak hours by coordinating with fellow line cooks on timing of dish completion.
  • Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by streamlining prep tasks and effectively organizing workstations.
  • Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
  • Increased kitchen productivity by keeping tools organized for easy access when needed.
  • Supported head chef during high-volume periods by efficiently executing complex tasks with precision under pressure.
  • Boosted employee morale through positive attitude, willingness to assist others when needed.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using various kitchen equipment safely for efficient food preparation.
  • Grilled meats and seafood to customer specifications.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality dishes in a timely manner.
  • Operated varied kitchen equipment, observing operation guidelines to avoid accidents and prevent malfunctions.
  • Wrapped up and stored unused food in appropriate containers and placed in refrigerator to avoid spoilage.
  • Maintained consistent portion control, ensuring uniformity in presentation and reducing food waste.
  • Ensured smooth kitchen operations during special events or private parties by collaborating with front-of-house staff and adjusting to specific client requests.
  • Followed restaurant stock management schedule to monitor product freshness and rotate out old products.
  • Strengthened team communication through active listening and constructive feedback during shift meetings or one-on-one sessions.
  • Assisted in inventory management by accurately tracking supplies and placing orders as needed.
  • Mastered various cooking techniques, broadening menu offerings and introducing innovative dishes.
  • Mentored junior staff members in culinary skills and techniques, fostering professional growth within the team.
  • Implemented effective waste reduction strategies, minimizing food costs and supporting sustainable practices.
  • Led kitchen safety workshop, resulting in zero accidents or injuries for year.
  • Streamlined prep work for faster meal turnaround, contributing to improved customer satisfaction.
  • Assisted in budget management, helping to reduce kitchen operational costs without compromising on quality.
  • Implemented system for quicker ingredient replenishment, keeping kitchen running smoothly during peak hours.
  • Coordinated with front-of-house staff to ensure timely delivery of orders, enhancing customer satisfaction.
  • Improved team morale and productivity through effective communication and collaboration.
  • Increased repeat customer numbers with consistent high-quality meal preparation.
  • Optimized food presentation, resulting in positive customer feedback and increased social media attention.
  • Adapted recipes for special dietary needs, enhancing dining experience for guests with restrictions.
  • Maintained high standards of food safety and hygiene, surpassing health inspection requirements.
  • Managed kitchen equipment maintenance, preventing unexpected downtime and preserving workflow.
  • Enhanced kitchen efficiency by maintaining clean and organized workstation.
  • Contributed to significant reduction in cooking time by organizing more efficient kitchen layouts.
  • Reduced food waste significantly by implementing innovative inventory tracking system.
  • Kept kitchen clean and organized by performing daily maintenance tasks.
  • Followed health, safety and sanitation guidelines while preparing and serving food.
  • Prepared and cooked meals according to recipes and customer specifications.
  • Prepared food items in compliance with recipes and portioning control guidelines.
  • Checked for quality, kept track of old and new items and rotated stock to confirm freshness of food and ingredients.
  • Monitored food quality and presentation to maintain high standards.
  • Maintained smooth and timely operations in preparation and delivery of meals.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Verified proper portion sizes to consistently attain high food quality standards.
  • Tasted, smelled, and pierced food with fork to verify sufficient cooking.
  • Assisted in developing new menu items to reflect restaurant's style and standards.
  • Baked consistent quality items by accurately mixing, dividing, shaping, and proofing.
  • Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
  • Developed innovative, creative menu items and recipes.

Embassy Suites
Moon Pa

Line Cook
03.1994 - 02.2000

Plymouth Mayflower Hotel
Plymouth, MI

Pastry Sous Chef
03.1989 - 02.1992

Chuck Muers Resturants in Michigan
Wayne, MI

Line Cook
03.1983 - 02.1989

Hilton Hotels Corporation
Michigan

Line Cook
1986 - 1989 (3 education.years_Label)

Job overview

  • Prepared and cooked meals according to dietary guidelines and resident preferences.
  • Maintained cleanliness of kitchen area, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
  • Assisted in menu planning, incorporating seasonal ingredients to enhance meal offerings.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure timely service during peak dining hours.
  • Managed inventory levels, minimizing waste through effective portion control practices.
  • Trained new staff on food preparation techniques and kitchen equipment usage.
  • Implemented improved cooking procedures, enhancing overall food quality and presentation.
  • Provided feedback on resident meal satisfaction, contributing to continuous improvement efforts.
  • Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
  • Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean and safe working environment, adhering to health and safety guidelines.
  • Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
  • Adapted quickly to new recipes and techniques, demonstrating versatility and eagerness to learn from colleagues.
  • Prepared and cooked full course meals based on restaurant recipes and specifications.
  • Prepared food items such as meats, poultry, and fish for frying purposes.
  • Plated and presented all dishes to match established restaurant standards.
  • Changed and sanitized cutting boards, benches, and surfaces between tasks to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
  • Checked food temperature regularly to verify proper cooking and safety.
  • Expedited service during peak hours by coordinating with fellow line cooks on timing of dish completion.
  • Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by streamlining prep tasks and effectively organizing workstations.
  • Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
  • Increased kitchen productivity by keeping tools organized for easy access when needed.
  • Supported head chef during high-volume periods by efficiently executing complex tasks with precision under pressure.
  • Boosted employee morale through positive attitude, willingness to assist others when needed.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using various kitchen equipment safely for efficient food preparation.
  • Grilled meats and seafood to customer specifications.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality dishes in a timely manner.
  • Operated varied kitchen equipment, observing operation guidelines to avoid accidents and prevent malfunctions.
  • Wrapped up and stored unused food in appropriate containers and placed in refrigerator to avoid spoilage.
  • Maintained consistent portion control, ensuring uniformity in presentation and reducing food waste.
  • Ensured smooth kitchen operations during special events or private parties by collaborating with front-of-house staff and adjusting to specific client requests.
  • Followed restaurant stock management schedule to monitor product freshness and rotate out old products.
  • Strengthened team communication through active listening and constructive feedback during shift meetings or one-on-one sessions.
  • Assisted in inventory management by accurately tracking supplies and placing orders as needed.
  • Mastered various cooking techniques, broadening menu offerings and introducing innovative dishes.
  • Implemented effective waste reduction strategies, minimizing food costs and supporting sustainable practices.
  • Streamlined prep work for faster meal turnaround, contributing to improved customer satisfaction.
  • Implemented system for quicker ingredient replenishment, keeping kitchen running smoothly during peak hours.
  • Coordinated with front-of-house staff to ensure timely delivery of orders, enhancing customer satisfaction.
  • Improved team morale and productivity through effective communication and collaboration.
  • Increased repeat customer numbers with consistent high-quality meal preparation.
  • Optimized food presentation, resulting in positive customer feedback and increased social media attention.
  • Adapted recipes for special dietary needs, enhancing dining experience for guests with restrictions.
  • Maintained high standards of food safety and hygiene, surpassing health inspection requirements.
  • Managed kitchen equipment maintenance, preventing unexpected downtime and preserving workflow.
  • Assisted in training of new line cooks, ensuring they met kitchen's high standards quickly.
  • Fostered culture of continuous improvement, encouraging feedback and implementing suggestions for better kitchen operations.
  • Developed waste reduction program that became model for other restaurants in chain.
  • Contributed to significant reduction in cooking time by organizing more efficient kitchen layouts.
  • Reduced food waste significantly by implementing innovative inventory tracking system.
  • Prepared and cooked meals according to recipes and customer specifications.
  • Followed health, safety and sanitation guidelines while preparing and serving food.
  • Kept kitchen clean and organized by performing daily maintenance tasks.
  • Prepared food items in compliance with recipes and portioning control guidelines.
  • Checked for quality, kept track of old and new items and rotated stock to confirm freshness of food and ingredients.
  • Monitored food quality and presentation to maintain high standards.
  • Maintained smooth and timely operations in preparation and delivery of meals.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Managed inventory and ordered food and supplies to maintain adequate stock.
  • Verified proper portion sizes to consistently attain high food quality standards.
  • Tasted, smelled, and pierced food with fork to verify sufficient cooking.
  • Developed strategies to enhance catering and retail food service revenue and productivity goals.
  • Assisted in developing new menu items to reflect restaurant's style and standards.
  • Baked consistent quality items by accurately mixing, dividing, shaping, and proofing.

Education

William D.Ford Career-Technical Center
Westland, MI

Associate of Arts from Culinary Arts
06.1983

Wayne Memorial
Wayne, MI

High School Diploma from Culinary Arts
05.1983

Skills

  • Time management
  • First aid and safety
  • Behavior redirection
  • Client support
  • Medication administration
  • Compassionate caregiving
  • Behavioral management
  • Client documentation
  • Housekeeping tasks
  • Decision-making support
  • Health and safety requirements
  • Relationship building
  • Direct patient care
  • Transportation
  • Patient care
  • Disability awareness
  • Client transportation
  • ADL support
  • Goal setting
  • Team collaboration
  • Social skills development
  • Recreational activities
  • Crisis management
  • Patient management
  • Progress documentation
  • Individualized support planning
  • Patient assessments
  • Safety monitoring
  • Community integration
  • Medical records management
  • Care plan management
  • Care plan assessment
  • Transportation assistance
  • Indirect patient care
  • Nutrition
  • Care delivery
  • Nutrition support
  • Case management
  • Problem-solving
  • Multitasking and organization
  • Daily living support
  • Empathy and patience
  • HIPAA compliance
  • Active listening
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Case documentation
  • Behavioral support
  • Positive reinforcement
  • Client advocacy
  • Life skills training
  • Mobility assistance
  • Self-care promotion
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Cultural awareness
  • Adaptive equipment use
  • Community activities
  • Wellness and nutrition knowledge
  • State regulations
  • Compassionate client care
  • Hygiene assistance
  • Healthcare
  • Case management experience
  • Client safety and first aid
  • Infection control procedures
  • First aid and CPR
  • Health services
  • Charting and documentation
  • Personal care assistance
  • CPR certification
  • Fast learner
  • Documentation and recordkeeping
  • First aid certification
  • Medication management
  • Attentive to people
  • Cooking meals
  • Certified in CPR/AED
  • CPR/AED
  • Vitals monitoring and documentation
  • Decision-making
  • Clear communication

Timeline

Direct Support Professional

Merakey Allegheny Valley School
02.2014 - Current

Personal Care Assistant

Sherwood Oaks Retirement Home
02.2000 - 06.2013

Line Cook

Sherwood Oaks Retirement Home
02.2000 - 05.2013

Line Cook

Embassy Suites
03.1994 - 02.2000

Pastry Sous Chef

Plymouth Mayflower Hotel
03.1989 - 02.1992

Line Cook

Chuck Muers Resturants in Michigan
03.1983 - 02.1989

Line Cook

Hilton Hotels Corporation
1986 - 1989 (3 education.years_Label)

William D.Ford Career-Technical Center

Associate of Arts from Culinary Arts

Wayne Memorial

High School Diploma from Culinary Arts
Laura Williams