Evelyn and Steven: 27 Years of Growth, Friendship, and Support

Evelyn and Steven were fully engaged in a friendly game of Yahtzee, a staple of their regular skill-building sessions. This wasn’t just about rolling dice—it was an opportunity for Steven to refine his fine motor skills and strategic thinking. “He’s not quite mastered the strategy yet, but he’s got the technique down!” Evelyn said with a smile.

Evelyn Chavous, a Community Specialist at Monarch, has worked with Steven Jones for 27 years, providing support through Community Living and Support Services, part of our Long-Term Services and Supports for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).  Community Living and Support Services allow a professional to work with a person with I/DD in their home or in the community.

A Lifelong Bond: From Early Support to Milestone Achievements

Evelyn’s career as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) began before she met Steven. She’s always had a passion for working with people with special needs, influenced early on by supporting her niece, who is on the autism spectrum. Evelyn’s expertise and commitment led her to Steven when he was just 3 years old, and she’s been by his side ever since.

“I met Steven at a daycare where I was working, and his parents asked if I’d provide personalized support for him. When they found an agency, I followed along,” Evelyn recalled. Over the years, she’s played an instrumental role in helping Steven develop essential life skills, including language and communication skills.  She was there when he spoke his first words.

Evelyn and Steven have shared countless memorable moments, but Steven’s high school graduation in 2014 stands out. “We rehearsed, we rehearsed, we rehearsed, and he did it! We didn’t have any fingernails left because we were so nervous, but he was confident because we had prepared,” Evelyn said. Steven had to present his learnings in front of a large audience, and with Evelyn’s support, he confidently walked across the stage and graduated with honors.

More recently, Steven earned his ServSafe certificate, showcasing his love for cooking and baking. Together with his dad, Steven bakes muffins to sell to local bakeries, and Evelyn couldn’t be prouder. “He’s next level. He really is a phenomenal human being!” she said enthusiastically.

Achieving Success Through Partnership and Trust

Evelyn and Steven’s accomplishments are a testament to their teamwork and dedication. They approach new tasks with a step-by-step strategy to ensure steady progress. “When we’re learning something new, like laundry, we start with the basics, such as sorting clothes,” Evelyn explained. By breaking down each task, they’ve made consistent strides forward, celebrating every milestone along the way.

Their strong connection also plays a vital role in their success. “I can sense how Steven is feeling just by his body language,” Evelyn shared. “And he’s attuned to my moods as well.” This mutual understanding and support have been key in their continued growth and achievements.

After 27 years, the connection between Evelyn and Steven feels more like family than anything else. “I sometimes call him by my own kids’ names,” Evelyn laughed. They enjoy activities together like karaoke, community outings, and playing sports, keeping them both physically active and engaged.

As they look to the future, Evelyn is focused on helping Steven become more independent while continuing to build on their strong bond. ‘My goal is to gradually step back as Steven becomes more self-sufficient,’ Evelyn explained. Their enduring relationship, grounded in shared experiences and deep mutual respect, will remain a foundation of their ongoing progress.

Celebrating DSPs and Their Impact

Through Monarch’s Community Living and Support Services, Evelyn has helped Steven thrive, showing what’s possible with personalized support and long-term dedication. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of DSPs and the difference they make in the lives of individuals like Steven.

If you’re interested in learning more about the rewarding profession of DSPs and how you can make a difference, visit our DSP Careers Page to explore opportunities and learn more about joining our dedicated team.