JAWONIO EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR:
Christine Curley
Team Leader, Day Habilitation Program
Recreation Coordinator
"What makes Christine's contribution truly exceptional is her commitment to the well-being and happiness of the individuals supported by Jawonio. In a time marked by isolation and uncertainty, she has provided a standing weekly program that not only fosters social engagement but also brings smiles and positive transformations to the lives of those we support."
Sara Trowers, Chief Program Officer
Our Employee of the Year, Christine Curley has been with Jawonio since 1995. She grew up in Spring Valley, and then moved to Congers, NY when she was 14. Christine is a Clarkstown North graduate and attended RCC with an Associates Degree and Certification in Occupational Therapy.
Christine’s career began as a Direct Support Professional in both our Bobbi Lewis Home in Chestnut Ridge, NY and our Moskoff Home in Garnerville, NY. After 4 years as a DSP in the Moskoff home, Christine was promoted and become the House Manager where she spent the next 24 years of her career. She is beloved by the individuals we support and her colleagues!
In January, 2023, Christine decided to pivot and take on a new path at Jawonio. She was hired as the Team Leader for Day Services and Recreational Coordinator.
When we asked Christine what gets her up every morning she said, “I know this sounds cliché but I feel that I make a difference in our individuals’ lives and they make a difference in mine.”
Please read the beautiful description below as to why Christine was the perfect choice to be named our 2023 Employee of the Year!
We are excited to celebrate and recognize Christine Curley as our 2023 Jawonio Employee of the Year! Christine is a Team Leader in our Day Habilitation Division, with oversight of the Sunrise Court and Horizon Programs and also provides wonderful activities as our Recreation Coordinator on Thursday nights at our main campus. She is being awarded this honor not only in recognition of her accomplishments in 2023 but in celebration of the positive impact she has had on the Jawonio community for many years.
Christine’s journey with Jawonio has been marked by unwavering dedication and transformative contributions. Her impact at Jawonio has been truly remarkable.
One of Christine’s outstanding achievements has been the establishment and ongoing leadership of the Touching Bases Baseball group, a fall initiative that has been incredibly successful. What truly sets Christine apart has been her extraordinary efforts in response to the challenges posed by the post-COVID landscape. Amidst the uncertainties of this new normal, Christine recognized the need for recreational activities beyond program hours, providing participants with opportunities to engage socially and enjoy a sense of normalcy. To meet that need, she rolled out a robust recreational program that meets every Thursday evening, offering participants a chance to connect, socialize, and indulge in various activities like bingo, karaoke, and special dances.
What makes Christine’s contribution truly exceptional is her commitment to the well-being and happiness of the individuals supported by Jawonio. In a time marked by isolation and uncertainty, she has provided an ongoing weekly program that not only fosters social engagement but also brings smiles and positive transformations to the lives of those we support. Coordinating such events demands meticulous planning, dedication, and a genuine passion for creating meaningful experiences. Christine’s efforts extend far beyond the scope of her demanding role as a Team Leader in day programs. Her ability to elevate and transform the lives of our participants is a testament to her exceptional leadership and genuine care.
