Allies Names Mattie Byrd a 2022 NJACP “Hero of the Year”

Allies, Inc. is proud to name Mattie Byrd as a 2022 New Jersey Association of Community Providers “Hero of the Year” for her outstanding work as a Direct Support Professional.

Mattie, who serves at Allies Crane Group Home in Ocean County, has been a dedicated Community Support Staff member at Allies for 11 years. Mattie is deeply devoted to ensuring that individuals at the Crane Group Home enjoy a safe, clean, and comfortable environment. She is highly attentive and caring and thrives on making sure that the needs of those she cares for are fulfilled each day. Her excellent communication skills are an asset to the individuals she serves, as well as those she works with.

Mattie is highly respected by her colleagues and the home’s residents. She has been praised for her hard work and going the extra mile in completing any task that needs to be done. In addition, Mattie’s strong relationship with her teammates has also been applauded. She always takes the initiative to provide her colleagues with updates and information so that they can provide the best care possible.

Mattie’s leadership team and colleagues were pleased to share glowing remarks about Mattie’s exceptional work and why she’s such an asset to Allies and those she serves.

Andrea Conte, Executive Director, said “We are so proud to name Mattie as our 2022 NJACP “Hero of the Year”. She is full of compassion, loves the individuals she cares for deeply, and they share the same love for her. She’s also a team player that everyone can count on.”

Anthony Visco, Support Manager at the Crane Group Home, remarked, “Mattie is the backbone of the Crane Group Home. She is the one that makes the ship go.”

Christine Cocozzo, Vice President of Southern Residential Services, commented, “Mattie is the Mother Hen of the house. She’s a motherly figure that brings comfort and positivity to the home every day, and she lifts people up on difficult days. We are so grateful to have her as a part of the Allies family.”

Mattie was honored at a luncheon on September 13th to celebrate DSPs during “Direct Support Professional Recognition Week.” Michael Haggerty, President and CEO of Allies, presented Mattie with a special recognition plaque as well as a gift card.

Mattie was overwhelmed by the fanfare, but graciously accepted her award. She remarked, “It was so beautiful to be recognized for my work. It really meant a lot because it shows that others notice the love and care that I provide to those I serve. But I don’t do it for the praise. I do this work because I love to help others. I love educating them and connecting with them. My favorite part is seeing how the individuals I support evolve. It’s a great feeling to know that because I believed in them, and gave them important skills and tools, that they were able to transform their lives and become more independent. I want them to live their best lives.”

Allies, Inc. is a nonprofit agency dedicated to providing housing, healthcare, meaningful employment and recreational activities to people with special needs in the communities of their choice. To learn more, visit www.alliesnj.org.