BRADFORD, Pa.— Debra (Debbie) Taylor, manager of the Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Residential Program at Beacon Light Adult Residential Services (BLARS), started her career with the agency in December 1975. Now, 46 years and four months later, Debbie will retire from BLARS aka Ramsbottom Center.
Over 30 co-workers, members of Debbie’s family, parents/guardians of BLARS’ clients and Beacon Light Board members attended a special reception on April 13 in honor of Debbie’s retirement.
Guy Signor, president and CEO of Journey Health System said, “Thank you for nearly 47 years at BLARS, Debbie. I know this place has always meant more than a job to you.”
Debbie was hired at Ramsbottom Center’s Cottage #2 in Bradford, Pennsylvania by her supervisor at that time, Jean Hvizdzak, who currently serves on the BLARS Board of Directors. Debbie moved to the Intermediate Care Facility program as a counselor, in 1982. She then became shift supervisor at Cottage #2 in 1987. By 1991, Debbie had proven herself and her commitment to the care of those served and was promoted to residential manager at Cottage #3 where she has remained for the last 30 plus years.
Debbie considers the consumers she served as family and likely they feel the same. She has been with them for the vast majority of their time at BLARS.
“I’ve seen a lot of changes over the years starting as a resident of the Children’s Home of Bradford,” said Debbie. “Passion for my work and the relationships with staff and my clients kept me going this long and I’ll miss everyone a lot.”
Additionally, Debbie made herself available to provide staff coverage whenever and wherever needed. When the new Specialized Therapeutic Residence for Intellectual and Developmental Empowerment (STRIDE) program first opened in Bradford, she stepped up to assist. Having those who were accustomed to caring for individuals with intellectual disabilities was a major help for the staff training and the success of that new children’s program.
“If we were gauging career success on the years of service, then Debbie certainly surpassed all expectations because 46 years with one company is unheard of in this day and age,” stated Jim Wiseman, executive director of BLARS. “But, we’re talking about Debbie so it goes much deeper than that. She’s demonstrated unwavering and unconditional commitment to many individuals that have been in our programs over the last four and half decades.”
Following retirement, Debbie, a long-time Bradford resident, plans to relax and enjoy family. Beacon Light is grateful for Debbie and her family's long-term support and the entire team wishes her the very best on her retirement!
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