For Chester McKenzie, music has always been more than just sound, it’s a way to express, connect and empower. As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Columbus Industries day program in Whiteville, NC, Chester isn’t just supporting people with their daily needs; he’s helping them discover their passions, build confidence and take center stage.
He isn’t a choir director in the traditional sense. He doesn’t pick the songs or tell people how to sing. Instead, he sees his role as something deeper: “I just make them feel comfortable being themselves,” he explains.
And that simple philosophy has changed lives.
More Than a Job — A Calling
Chester’s work goes far beyond routine support. Whether it’s music, public speaking or art, he makes sure the people he supports know their talents matter.
“For whatever their passion is, I give them encouragement,” Chester says. “We have people whose passion is music, art and public speaking. I tell them, ‘Follow your passion, it’s your art — follow who you are.’”
He’s seen firsthand how this encouragement transforms people. The Columbus Industries Choir started as a small group of shy singers. Many were hesitant to take the stage. But under Chester’s steady support, they blossomed into confident performers.
“When we first started, they were a little nervous,” he recalls. “After much practice and encouragement, now they will just jump up there and sing and put on a performance to uplift others.”
Bridging the Gap Between Talent and Opportunity
One of Chester’s greatest passions is helping people showcase their abilities beyond Columbus Industries. The choir performs at local nursing homes and community events, breaking down barriers and showing the world what they can do.
“Music gives them relief. It helps them express themselves,” Chester explains. “And when they sing for others, they feel proud of what they can do.”
Through events like Inspirational Tuesday, where choir members perform and others share their public speaking talents, Chester has helped create a platform for self-expression. And every performance is a step toward changing perceptions about people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Challenging Stereotypes During DDAM
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) is about recognizing the talents, passions and contributions of people with I/DD — showing the world that they are more alike than different. But behind every great performance, painting or accomplishment, there are often dedicated supporters who help nurture that talent.
For Chester, that’s the whole point.
“DDAM is about putting a spotlight on those who are overlooked,” he says. “To inform people that they are somebody, just like we are. They can do the same things as us.”
Every time the choir sings, every time someone he supports steps forward to share their passion, Chester sees the impact.
“When people hear them sing, they don’t see disabilities,” he says. “They just see talent.”
And that’s exactly what he’s spent his career helping others recognize.