Kenesha Cherry, DSP, Provides Comfort at Fort Salonga Road Residence
Meet Kenesha Cherry, a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Citizens’ Fort Salonga Road residence in Northport.
Kenesha has dedicated her career to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). She previously worked as a DSP for Brookville Center for Children’s Services’ Children’s Residential Program and a program director at another agency.
“My aunt is the one who introduced me to the field way back when,” said Kenesha. “I’ve just always been drawn to it. I like helping people reach their goals.”
Kenesha enjoys the hands-on work and developing strategies matching each person’s unique interests and abilities. She also appreciates the opportunity to be a positive and supportive presence when challenging moments arise – offering space to process and talk about “What’s upsetting you?” or “Why can’t we move on?’’
“I like to give them that,” said Kenesha. “When you’re ready to come talk to me, come talk to me. They’re going through the same things we’re going through. The same things I want, I’m allowing them to have that as well.”
Kenesha’s favorite part about being a DSP is the people she supports.
“I like going out on recreation with them,” Kenesha said. “They all bowl amazingly here, so I like going out to see the joy on their faces when they come back with high scores.”