Behind every milestone at Black Hills Works are the extraordinary individuals who have dedicated decades of their lives to our mission. These staff members, who have been with us for 20+ years, embody the heart and soul of our organization through their unwavering commitment to the people we support. Their stories reflect not just careers, but callings—filled with moments of challenge, triumph, growth, and profound connection. As we share these journeys, we hope they inspire each of us to see the lasting impact we can make through dedication to our shared purpose. These are the voices of experience that shape our culture and remind us why the work we do matters so deeply.
Carla Streeter – Direct Support Professional
The Rewards of Direct Support
Twenty-seven years ago, Carla Streeter was looking for a part-time job. Her sister, Colleen Van Dam, worked at Black Hills Works and suggested she apply. What started as a simple job opportunity has grown into a lifelong calling.
With enthusiasm, Carla says, “I’ve always been a direct support professional, and I love it. I’ve been offered other positions, but I prefer this role.”
A Meaningful Career
Carla has found great satisfaction in her career. “I like the people. I like working with the individuals. If I can teach them something, that makes me feel good about myself and them, so it’s really rewarding.”
Carla’s long career has taken her into most of the 30-plus residences in the organization. “When I first started, I floated everywhere, and I mean everywhere, ” she recalls. The experience, while challenging at times, gave her valuable perspective on participants’ diverse needs. She has now been a direct support professional at LaCrosse Estates for a decade.
The most rewarding aspect of her work? “Creating the relationships over the years,” she reflects.
Overcoming Challenges with Support
Like any meaningful work, direct support can have challenges. “You just have to navigate through it,” Carla says pragmatically. She offers wisdom gained from experience: “You’ll come across situations that might be nerve-wracking or difficult. There’s really nothing you can do that’s going be the wrong thing if you just stop and think it through.”
She emphasizes the importance of empathy. “We have to put ourselves in participants’ shoes too. It’s a different world from how I comprehend things,” she explains.
She also adds, “If you’re really nervous, just ask somebody. If you’re unsure, you know other people will help you.”
Making an Impact Through Innovation
Carla is proud of completing all levels of DSP credentialing at Black Hills Works. Her final project, “Cupid Do’s and Don’ts,” helps participants learn about building healthy romantic relationships. In 2023, she received an Innovation Award from ANCOR (American Network of Community Options and Resources) for the project. She notes with a laugh, “When I created it, I’m thinking, ‘Well, I could use this myself.'”
Changing Perceptions
In her early years with the agency, Carla recalls taking participants grocery shopping. “People would see us, and they’d avoid us and even go to a different aisle,” she remembers.
Today, she sees a marked improvement in community inclusion. “That doesn’t happen like it used to,” she says with satisfaction. “As far as people accepting our participants, it’s gotten a lot better.”
Carla’s greatest hope is for the continued existence of organizations like Black Hills Works. “I hope the agency is always here to help support them, because there’s always people that need to learn and need help learning,” she says.
A Shared Legacy
Carla’s commitment to her work is exemplary. Notably, her sister, Colleen, recently marked 31 years with Black Hills Works and is now a DSP in remote support. They share a legacy of making a huge impact in the lives of countless individuals with disabilities.
Carla says, “It’s everybody’s right to be included in society.” Thanks to her and other staff, this inclusion is becoming more and more of a reality.
