Bancroft celebrates DSP week (Sept 11-17) and the over 2,000 DSPs who work here. We are spotlighting Matthew Anismatta and his commitment to this profession.
Matthew Anismatta has an innate ability to connect with people, which is what inspired him to become a direct support professional (DSP) at one of Bancroft’s residential programs that cares for five children aged 11 to 16. Although he’s only been at Bancroft just a few months, he’s already well-respected by his colleagues and beloved by the children in his care.
The minute Matthew arrives for his shift, the children flock to him to pull him in their direction to show him something they’re doing, or engage him in a favorite activity.
“In such a short amount of time, he really has made a difference in the lives of the boys that are here,” said Jaime Alexander, Matthew’s program manager. Small moments make a big difference in the lives of the individuals in our care and Matthew uses those moments to teach them important life skills like how to cook, clean and communicate how they feel.
Before working at Bancroft, Matthew had some experience working in hospital settings, but he knew he wanted something more. A friend encouraged him to apply to Bancroft and he quickly realized it was more than just another job; it was a calling, and just the opportunity he was searching for. “I’m very grateful to Bancroft to be given the chance to work here, to show what I can do and hopefully can move up to become a senior DSP.”
When he first started working at Bancroft, he made it a point to sit down with each child and learn more about them. “My favorite part of working at Bancroft is the diversity among the kids and really getting to know their likes and dislikes,” he says.
Working at Bancroft has put life as a parent into perspective, as well. “It opened my eyes to how much I was doing for my daughter versus how much she can do for herself because these kids don’t always have that chance to be self-sufficient.”
Not only has he made an impact on the children he supports, but he’s had an impact on his teammates in the house, as well. “We have kids here that have significant disabilities, so his willingness to learn and discuss different ideas are completely refreshing,” said Program Associate Tinuade Ogunyeni.
He looks for ways to bond with the boys through the activities they enjoy most. “One boy got the Friends Lego set for his birthday so I asked him if he wanted to build it together. At first, he didn’t want to, so I didn’t force it,” said Matthew. “The next day I asked, he was so excited and ready to build it. It just was a special moment to share that bonding time with him.”
