10 Trudeau Truths with Direct Support Professional Laura Fontaine
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.
Meet Laura Fontaine who has been a Direct Support Professional at Trudeau’s Titus residential program for 7 years, driven by her deep passion for helping others. She finds the greatest reward in witnessing personal milestones big or small and being part of someone’s journey toward independence and happiness. She fondly recalls taking a resident to pick pumpkins, carving them together, and seeing his priceless smile. When not at work, Laura relaxes with her family and her 4 beloved cats (she especially cherishes memories of Maggie, her shadow and best friend). Fun fact: She’s extremely handy! Her dad taught her to change oil, sew, and fix things around the house!
Read on to learn more about Laura in this edition of 10 Trudeau Truths!
10 Trudeau Truths with Laura Fontaine
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in human services?
I was inspired to pursue a career in human services because I’ve always had a deep passion for helping others and making a meaningful impact in their lives. I wanted to work in a field where compassion, patience, and respect are not only valued but essential. Every day, I find fulfillment in knowing that the care I provide helps individuals reach their goals and feel valued.
2. What do you find most rewarding about your job?
What I find most rewarding about being a Direct Support Professional is seeing the people I support reach personal milestones, whether big or small. Watching someone gain confidence, build independence, or simply feel proud of themselves makes me feel fulfilled. Those moments remind me that the work I do truly makes a difference as I get to be a part of someone’s journey towards independence, confidence, and happiness.
3. Can you describe a memorable moment or success story from your time working at Trudeau?
One of my most memorable moments while working at Trudeau was about 5 years ago when I took one of the individuals I support (who has since passed) to the Pumpkin patch to pick out his own pumpkin. After bringing it home, we carved it together and then roasted the pumpkin seeds. What made this moment so meaningful was the joy, engagement and sense of accomplishment it created. The smile on his face after completion was priceless. It’s moments like that where I am reminded of why I chose this career and how even simple activities can have a lasting impact.
4. What’s something about people with differing abilities (or working with them) that you wish other people knew or better understood?
One thing I wish more people understood about individuals with disabilities is that they want the same things we do- respect, dignity, and meaningful connections. Too often, society underestimates their abilities, but with the right support and opportunities they can accomplish so much. As a DSP, I’ve learned that every person has unique strengths, talents and perspectives to share. I’ve also learned as much from them as they have from me.
5. What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend?
My favorite way to spend the weekend is relaxing and spending time with my family and cats.
6. Favorite book, movie, and/or TV show.
To be completely honest, I don’t read, and I barely ever watch TV. However, occasionally I will watch a movie with my family maybe once a month.
7. Do you have any pets?
Yes, I have 4 cats.
8. What’s your favorite food?
My absolute favorite food is Filet Mignon (Hibachi) from the restaurant “Shogun” on Jefferson Blvd in Warwick, RI.
9. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
I would go to Florida, Which I have been there several times before but if someone asked me today where would you like to go if I gave you a free ticket I would want to go to Florida because My dad, older sister and brother live there with all my nieces and nephews and I miss them. Besides that, I would love to go to Italy as I’ve always wanted to go to see the Colosseum, and I do love a good Italian dish as well.
10. What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
A fun fact about me that most people don’t know is that I am extremely handy and creative. My dad always used to say, “You need to learn how to do things on your own, so that way you won’t need to rely on any man to do it for you”. He taught me how to change the oil in my car, sew for his upholstery business, fix things around the house etc.
