Avatar Residential

Avatar proudly recognizes remarkable individuals at the 2024 CPNRI, DSP of the year annual meeting. Celebrating the power of commitment and teamwork. Marlin takes center stage as Avatars 2024 DSP of the year.
Erika had the honors of presenting Jeff the Manager at Marshall's the 2024 Employer of the year award! Who employes Lydia,Dennis,Katrina,and Cherie.
Great job Marshalls!
Marionettes heartfelt speech beautifully captured the essence of this, celebration. Inspiring us with her remarkable journey and tribute to all of the DSP award recipients. Last but not least Congratulations to Leroy on his DSP of the year nomination on behalf of Spurwink. Leroy is also part of Avatars team.
Thank you to everyone who made this event a success!
Especially Community Provider Network of Rhode Island
Our Avatar team is truly unstoppable!

Avatar Residential is seeking hardworking and passionate individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals! We offer flexible schedules, competitive benefits, and a work environment that's all about fostering creativity, diversity, and, most importantly, fun!

We currently have full-time, part-time, and fill-in positions available in the Warwick area. Packages are a variation of First Shifts (7a-3p) and Second Shifts (3p-10p). While it's great if you have experience in behavioral health, it's not a must-have. We're happy to train anyone eager to learn the ropes and make a difference!

Benefits Include 401(k) with matching after one year, Earned Time Off, Health, Dental, and Life Insurance options through Colonial Life. We also offer training, referral bonuses, and opportunities for advancement!

If this sounds like the perfect fit for you, head over to www.avatarresidential.com
and click on the 'employment' tab to apply.

We can't wait to hear from you and potentially welcome you to our team! ✨

As we close out Direct Support Recognition Week, we would like to acknowledge all of the hard work done each day by our many committed DSPs. We are proud of the community of people we have at Avatar, today and every day! 👏 👏👏

Last but certainly not least, we would like to recognize Amadou Diallo nominated by his teammates at Pine Orchard as an outstanding Direct Support Professional ✨

Amadou came to Avatar almost one year ago, after obtaining his Associates Degree in General Studies from CCRI. While attending school, Amadou worked at McDonald’s – there learning how to navigate fast paced environments. When he was referred to by a friend, he took the opportunity to learn something new and broaden his horizons. Although he came to Avatar with no prior experience in the field, it was immediately clear that Amadou was a natural Direct Support Professional.

According to his coworkers, Amadou always goes above and beyond for the women he supports. He actively encourages everyone he works with; he is dependable and a great role model. The women who live at Pine Orchard often seek Amadou out to spend time with him. He is always down for an adventure into the community, or to play Uno against the ladies. After only nine months at Avatar, Amadou was promoted in July to Assistant Director at Pine Orchard. Amadou stepped up to this new challenge with a positive attitude and ready to learn his new role.

Congratulations, Amadou! We value your commitment to the people you support and the calming presence you maintain in all situations! You operate with kindness, empathy and understanding and we are thankful to have you as a part of the Avatar Residential Community! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

Next up in , we would like to take the time to honor our next nomineem Zion Lopes Mendonca who has been selected by his team at New River as an outstanding Direct Support Professional. ✨

Zion has been with Avatar since 2022. Before joining our team, he worked in Environmental Services at Rhode Island Hospital, was a Sales Associate at Dick’s Sporting Goods and even worked as a Track Attendant at Seekonk Grand Prix. Zion is a hard-worker and is committed to his role as a DSP; always putting his best foot forward!

Zion’s coworkers say that he is an asset to the team; he is dedicated and “puts his heart into making a difference”. He is a natural leader and role model – new staff look up to him and come to him for guidance. Among Zion’s strengths are his incredible ability to communicate; he is thoughtful with his words, has a great sense of humor and can turn anything positive.

When the role of Community Inclusion Specialist (CIS) was created for each program – Zion jumped at the chance to take on this role for the people who live at New River. He has done an amazing job at finding opportunities for fun experiences that both enrich people’s lives and incorporate their goals. Zion actively seeks feedback and input from his teammates and since he started in this role, everyone has been getting out more and living life to the fullest.

Congratulations, Zion!!! You are an incredible representative of what it means to be a Direct Support Professional – you bring light and positivity to your team and the people you support. It is our pleasure to watch you grow and take on new responsibilities! Thak you for being a part of the Avatar Residential Community, we are lucky to have you! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

It’s the final day of , and we continue to highlight the best of the best from each of our programs, recognized by the people working beside them.

Today we begin with Morayo “Mo” Ajomale, nominated by her team at Lillian Lane as an outstanding Direct Support Professional! ✨

Mo moved to Rhode Island from Chicago in 2014, having already received a degree in Accounting and an established herself as an entrepreneur. In 2021, Mo began to Avatar and has since worked at Buttonwoods, Lillian as well as in Independent Living. Mo’s energy is electric, and she always leads with kindness and humor – qualities that are much appreciated in a DSP!

Mo’s coworkers say that she thoughtful, helpful and a team player. They say that it is clear that she works from the heart and is always finding new ways to communicate with the people she supports, and to truly get to know them. Mo is an strong advocate and always willing to pitch in and help in any scenario. She goes above and beyond, making her teammates feel welcome and comfortable.

Mo is also an excellent chef - anyone who has tried her cuisine can agree! She routinely cooks for staff meetings, the people she supports and even hosted an “African Food Luncheon” at the Avatar Community Center. She is well known and liked among the people we support, and her positive energy and attitude is sought after by many. Mo has been active in supporting people in the Special Olympics and is an amazing cheerleader!

We congratulate you, Mo! Thank you for bringing your compassion and kindness to work with you every day. Your desire to make people feel at ease, valued and included is very much appreciated. We are proud to have you as a part of the Avatar Residential Community! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

Next up to be highlighted as an exemplary Direct Support Professional, Cynthia Fernandes! Cynthia has been nominated to by her team to represent Jillson during ✨

Cynthia came to Avatar not long after graduating high school in Cumberland. She has been with Avatar for 15 years – coming and going as she managed a second job with Jet Blue. Cynthia commits to her role and always brings a positive attitude.

Cynthia’s coworkers describe her as calm, hardworking and reliable. She is very family oriented and brings that sense of community to the individuals she supports. She is devoted to the people she supports and steadfast in making sure everyone is able to put their best foot forward.

Since her most recent return to Avatar, Cynthia has shared a special bond with Cindy. She has been an instrumental support for her and together they have done many things, including swimming at the beach, a trip to the Roger Williams Zoo and the Mystic Aquarium. Cynthia has a can-do attitude and is willing to try anything; it is clear that Cindy values her time with Cynthia.

Congratulations, Cynthia! Your calming demeanor and work ethic make you a natural stand-out among your team. We value your longevity and admire your ongoing commitment to the Avatar Residential community! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

As we continue , we would like to show our appreciation for Kristin Houlihan, nominated as an outstanding Direct Support Professional at Garden Hills. ✨

While working at the Warwick Mall and care giving for a family member, Kristin was referred to us through a family member who worked with Avatar at the time. She started in 2017 working at Garden Hills, filling-in at other programs as well. She has grown immensely in her time at Avatar; she is willing to do whatever it takes to make people’s lives better.

As a DSP, Kristin’s coworkers say that she is kind and thoughtful. She is respectful to the people she supports and her teammates. She brings a positive, can-do, attitude to each shift and prioritizes the happiness of the women who live at Garden Hills. Kristen is organized and tidy, understanding the importance of keeping spaces organized as a means of promoting positivity.

Kristen has worked closely with Karen at her Day Program for several years and was even promoted as her Job Coach. Together they work to keep Karen's days filled with meaningful activities. They exercise at the YMCA, swim, attend cooking class, and support Karen’s crafting business. She is patient, helpful and hardworking.

Congratulations, Kristin! You are an excellent role model for staff and the individuals supported. Your initiative and hard work have made you a natural leader among your team. Thank you for all that you do for the Avatar Residential community! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

is in full swing and we are excited to continue to recognize the amazing Avatar DSPs!

Today we would like to take the opportunity to highlight another of our valuable DSPS, Angelica Bautista! Angelica has been nominated by her team at Dexter Rock as an outstanding Direct Support Professional!! ✨

After graduating from Cumberland High School and attending CCRI, Angelica began working at Avatar in 2015. She took a hiatus to work at Miriam Hospital, and again began working at Avatar in 2022. She has worked at several programs over the years and quickly became a natural leader and role model among her teammates wherever she went.

Angelica’s teammates say that she is reliable, compassionate, attentive, patient and engaged. They appreciate that she is a team player, remains calm in all situations and always goes above and beyond for the people she supports. Above all – Angelica is bubbly, friendly and always looking to lift peoples spirits.

The people who live at Dexter Rock feel happy and safe with Angelica. She has worked to support people to maintain important relationships in their lives and with families. Angelica has been a case manager for Diane for several years and goes above and beyond with this duty. She actively supports people achieve their goals and roots for them along the way.

Congratulations, Angelica! Your passion for your work is evident in all you do for the people you support and the positivity you bring - you are truly an asset to your team. We are very proud of your hard work and commitment to the Avatar Residential community! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

It’s a beautiful day to continue highlighting our incredible Direct Support Professionals during ☀️

Today we will feature Kiara Montiero, who was nominated by her team at Deerfield as an outstanding Direct Support Professional. ✨

Kiara joined the Avatar team three years ago after many years in the restaurant business. Her positive attitude and contagious smile made her a natural with the customers and she eventually decided to spread her wings and see what being a DSP was all about! She has been a steady presence for her team and the people she supports from then on.

Kiara’s coworkers say that she is dedicated, reliable, and fun. She is an excellent problem solver and always willing to adjust to the needs of others. Kiara is a team player and has built positive relationships with her coworkers and the people she supports. She understands the importance of consistency, understanding and a listening ear.

The people who live at Deerfield have formed wonderful relationships with Kiara. Notably, she and Stephanie have partnered together, volunteering at the RI ASPCA; something which they both look forward to! Everyone agrees that she is kind and funny – Ed especially enjoys teasing her and calling her “shorty”.

Congratulations, Kiara! You have shown growth and professionalism during your time with Avatar. We are thankful for the thoughtful care you provide and for always advocating for the people you support! It is an honor to have you as a part of the Avatar Residential community! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

It is an honor to continue to celebrate all the incredible DSPs at Avatar during

Today we highlight Marlin Rosario, who was not only nominated by his team at Buttonwoods as an outstanding Direct Support Professional, he was also selected as Avatar’s DSP of the Year!! ✨

Marlin attended school in New York before starting his career in human services. He has been a Direct Support Professional for over twelve years, seven of which have been at Avatar! Marlin has worked at several places within Avatar and has proved invaluable at each; bringing experience and confidence to every new setting.

According to his coworkers, Marlin is well-respected and liked among his teammates. He brings positivity, he is flexible, easy-going and adaptable to any situation. His great sense of humor and calm demeanor bring the team together. He is honest in his work and approaches people with empathy and compassion, always.

Marlin is there for the people he supports in the small moments and the big. Notably, he helped to reunite a father and son; a nerve-wracking experience for all, but with Marlin’s support it became a joyful moment and memory. “Marlin was by my side for one of the most important days of my life – he listened and advised me on how to navigate the situation best! He made an uncomfortable situation ok,” said the individual.

Another person supported says, “Marlin always plays Wii with me. He finds a way to include me in his plans and asks me how I am doing and if I need anything. It feels good to know he is genuinely interested in my life.”

We would like to congratulate you, Marlin! Thank you for bringing your zest for life to your work as a Direct Support Professional. We appreciate the years you have spent as a dedicated DSP and are proud to have you representing Avatar Residential as our 2024 DSP of the Year!! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

is off to a great start and it is our pleasure to feature Charles Jean Baptist, nominated by his team at Bertenshaw as an outstanding Direct Support Professional ✨

Charles started his career in accounting and finance, working 6 years in the banking industry, and 12 years as a network sales manager for a Telecom company overseas. He began his career as a Direct Support Professional at Avatar over five years ago.

Charles brings energy and a smile to each shift. His coworkers describe him as hardworking, pure hearted, conscientious and always willing to take the extra step. Charles is compassionate and diligent in the supports he provides and as a team member.

Charles has worked to create special bonds with each person he supports. He wears many hats, depending on who he is supporting; loud and playful at times and quiet and soft-spoken at others. He goes above and beyond to ensure everyone is happy, healthy, and enjoying life.

Congratulations, Charles! Thank you for your dedication as a Direct Support Professional not only to your team but to the entire Avatar Residential community - we appreciate you! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

Today we kick off 2024 !

Over the next several days we will be featuring individuals who have been chosen by their teams as outstanding Direct Support Professionals 🏆

We begin by featuring Jamie Clarke, nominated by her team at Avatar Community Center as an outstanding Direct Support Professional ✨

Jamie came to Avatar three years ago after a long career as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Jamie has been a hard worker from the beginning and quickly became a trusted member of a ACC team. Jamie took on the role of Team Leader and has helped forge the way for this new position. Jamie’s teammates say that she is a, accountable, responsible, fun, detail oriented and a fierce advocate!

Jamie has taken the time to get to know each person she supports. She is always there to listen and to help brainstorm new ideas. She is especially cherished, and trusted, by the Pink Team 🩷 She is a motivator - always helping the people she supports towards their North Star Goals ⭐️

Congratulations, Jamie! Thank you for being a positive role model not only for your teammates, but people you support as well. You are an exemplary Direct Support Professional and we are grateful to have you as a part of the Avatar Residential Community!! 💫



Community Provider Network of Rhode Island

A powerful moment between new friends. 💚

Graham recently went to a horse therapy group and was nervous of the big animals. 🐴

After some time together, we would say they enjoyed each other’s company!

Thank you to Avatar Residential for creating this special moment.

The annual Avatar cookout was a resounding success, with perfect weather and a dedicated team of volunteers who demonstrated exceptional commitment and enthusiasm, making it a truly memorable event. So sorry for picture overload. But you are going to love them all! 👏 🍪🌭

Kudos to the incredible teams who made this adventure a wild ride. Everyone left with huge smiles. Next adventure, let's do this!

Please Save the date for Avatars Annual Family Picnic.
Thursday Aug 29, 2024. 12p-3p.

Let's celebrate Nicole's remarkable achievement in completing the Leadership series! It required dedication and hard work, but she showed up ready to participate. Kudos to Mirela for supporting her in this journey. You both demonstrated the power of commitment and teamwork!
Thank you Mirela!
Thank you Advocates in Action for providing this awesome opportunity. On to the next chapter ladies!
Class of 2024! 👩‍🎓💯❤

Congratulations, Amy! Continue to demonstrate exceptional work ethic and dedication to your role.

We had an amazing time at Roger William's zoo today. Thank you, Sherlock Center, for inviting us to your award ceremony! Despite the heat, we had a great day!🌞🐘🍦🍿

May's Avatar Adventures Offer a Glimpse of What's Possible - Stay Tuned for Even More Transformative Journeys in June!🦓🐋💙

Heartfelt congratulations to the Avatar Angels on their phenomenal bronze medal victory! Shout out to all athletes who participated in the Special Olympics 2024 for their impressive accomplishment and for inspiring us with their dedication, perseverance, and spirit of sportsmanship!🏊‍♂️👨‍🦽🏃🥅⚽️🏊‍♀️

Avatar's 2024 T-Shirt, featuring the art of Gail Hampton.

Come support Avatar Angels at the 2024 Special Olympics RI! 🏅

All events will be held at the University of Rhode Island, Kingston Campus.

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Friday 05/31: Opening Ceremony @ 7:00pm

Saturday 06/01: Avatar Angels will be playing soccer @ 9:00am on the field behind Keaney Gym

Check out the flyers for information on all the fun events and an event map! We hope to see you there! ✨

Congratulations to Avatar artists Denise Flynn, Melissa Coite, Lydia Brodeur, Julie Ricard, Gail Hampton, and Dawn Burke, the top vote-getters in this year's T-Shirt contest!!
Thank you to everyone who voted and shared.
And a gigantic thank you to all the Avatar artists who made such stellar art and put it out into the world for everyone to see and enjoy.
Stay tuned for the unveiling of this year's t-shirt design!

Last Tuesday, a dedicated group of individuals came together at the Rhode Island State House to advocate for their rights and engage with their local representatives. Their passion and determination are a testament to the power of collective action and the potential for positive change!

Cailin, Yasmine, and Hailey embarked on a scenic walk to Nigret Park in Charlestown, where they visited the impressive Giant Trolls, crafted entirely from recycled materials and accessible for free year-round.

Thank you, Liz, for kicking off the ACC spring cooking class season! 🌸 Great job to everyone who participated and those who helped behind the scenes!👩‍🍳