Two Long-term DSPs Retire: Saying Goodbye to Maria and Viorica
In August we said goodbye to two beloved and longstanding members of the Search Direct Support Professional (DSP) team. Maria Craciun and Viorica Opris have retired after a remarkable combined 50+ year tenure at Search.
Our Direct Support Professionals are quite simply the heart and soul, and backbone of Search. There is no other job at Search that has a greater impact on the people and families we are proud to serve. The important work they do supporting people to live full, meaningful and active lives in the community is the foundation of our mission. Maria and Viorica exemplify the dedication, compassion, creativity and teamwork all of our DSPs. Cory Gumm, Search CEO says, “Both Maria and Viorica have been essential members of our DSP team for many years. They have left a lasting impression on so many people at Search and will be greatly missed!”
Maria started her career at Search in 1999 and is described by her peers as a sweet and gentle soul. She dedicated over 22 years of service to Search Inc. and the individuals we serve, and was a vital part of the team at Search’s Samoset house. As Adrienne East, QIDP/Coordinator over our Samoset residence puts it, “Maria has touched the hearts of many and always remained a cornerstone figure at Samoset house. She treated the guys at Samoset like family and empowered them to achieve their full potential. She has been a committed DSP and has served compassionately.”
Her commitment shined through during the Covid-19 pandemic, when she remained steadfast in her position and providing the consistency the individuals at Samoset needed.
Samoset and Search will miss Maria, but as Adrienne notes, “I am sure she will be focusing on her family and grandchildren and enjoying every second of her retirement. We wish her the best!”
Thank you Maria! You made it possible for the individuals we serve to live the lives they want the same as everybody else, regardless of disability.
Upon immigrating to the United States from Romania, Viorica started her career at Search in 1991. Search was her first and only job for the entire 30+ years. Described by her peers as a lovely person, Viorica worked at Search’s Jerome house, where she was an invaluable member of the team, bringing light, love and laughter to the individuals she served and her peers.
As Yazmeen Ramirez, QIDP/Coordinator over our Jerome residence puts it, “For years Viorica has worked so hard every day to make the lives of the Jerome ladies brighter. All of her dedication, hard work and especially the laughter she brought to the home will never be forgotten. We will remember your incredible spirit and commitment to serving others.”
Yazmeen says that everyone at Jerome house will miss seeing her smiling face each weekend,”but we will rest assured that you are enjoying your days in your retirement. We all offer you heart-felt best wishes for a happy retirement. The ladies will miss you so much!”
Thank you Viorica!