10 Trudeau Truths with Direct Support Professional James Daily
You know them as the educators, caregivers and leaders who work to keep everything running smoothly so that our clients at the Trudeau Memorial Center can have the best experience possible. But what are they like when they’re off the clock?
Here’s a chance to get a more personal look at the people who make up the team at Trudeau… 10 questions at a time.
Get to know Jim! He’s a Direct Support Professional who has been part of the Trudeau team for 17 years across our Residential and Community Support Services programs. Jim first discovered his passion for human services volunteering in high school, and today he brings a lifelong love of technology to his work, helping clients and staff solve problems and overcome roadblocks in creative ways.
When he’s off the clock, you’ll find Jim gaming with his son, gardening with his wife, taking photos, feeding the backyard birds, or dreaming of a return trip to New Orleans. Want to know Jim’s all-time favorite movie, his thoughts on lobster, and the fun fact he swears is true? Get to know him, below!
10 Trudeau Truths with James Daily
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in human services?
WAAAY back in high school, I had a great time volunteering to help the special needs kids. When I decided to pick up a side-gig, CSS seemed like a great fit. I had a lot of fun working with my clients, and Residential seemed like a good fit. Also, I have a son who is on the Autism Spectrum, so I’m used to having to work a bit and be creative to get the accommodations he needs, which fits my role well.
2. What do you find most rewarding about your job?
I’ve always enjoyed using technology to solve problems. I’ve had a lot of luck helping both clients and staff overcome roadblocks using computers, mobile devices, etc. It’s great that I can use my long-time hobby to make positive changes.
3. Can you describe a memorable moment or success story from your time working at Trudeau?
One client I worked with decided he was going to take a trip alone to Canada (there was a girl involved). We worked together for several weeks to get his flight and accommodations figured out and to troubleshoot any issues that might come up. The trip wasn’t perfect, but nothing came up that we hadn’t planned for. He had a wonderful time, and came out of the experience feeling much more empowered.
4. What’s something about people with differing abilities (or working with them) that you wish other people knew or better understood?
I often get the impression that people don’t understand that people with disabilities are PEOPLE. They can have rewarding lives, they just might need a bit of support. But EVERYBODY needs a bit of support.
5. What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend?
Playing video games with my son, gardening with my wife, photography, feeding the birds in my backyard, or traveling.
6. Favorite book, movie, and/or TV show.
My favorite book and TV show change now and then. Currently, Stranger in a Strange Land is my favorite book, and The Expanse is my favorite show. For decades, my favorite movie has been Tron, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.
7. Do you have any pets?
We own a 17-year-old cat named Leia. She’s mostly blind and a bit deaf, but that doesn’t stop her from getting around (or letting us know when her food bowl is empty).
8. What’s your favorite food?
Lobster…which I have recently become allergic to. Benadryl is a wonderful thing.
9. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
New Orleans. My wife and I have been there twice and loved going into all the shops and restaurants. We had a great time going on all the tours. I’m looking forward to bringing our son with us next time.
10. What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I used to have hair. Honest.
