Meet Allies NJACP All-Star

Latoya’s Story

As a member of The New Jersey Association of Community Providers (NJACP), Allies participates in their annual STARS Awards celebration each year. The STARS Awards provide organizations the opportunity to recognize one individual with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities that has overcome challenges and achieved success towards reaching their full potential. This year Allies was excited to name Latoya Martin.

During her time receiving Allies’ residential supports, we have seen tremendous progress from Latoya in many ways. She’s learned to initiate and engage in conversations with her staff and peers in a positive and friendly manner, often while sharing a bubbly and warm smile.

She has also effectively implemented strategies to support her emotional well-being, including self-regulation and relaxation techniques.

Latoya has also taken an active role in managing her physical health, attending doctor’s appointments, setting up follow-up appointments, and ensuring that she follows her doctor’s guidance to maintain her wellness.

With the support of her behavior specialist and other Allies staff, she has also worked hard to express her goals, needs, likes and dislikes in a positive way. This has led to better communication and connections with her family, friends, staff, and peers at the day program she attends.

Shynaqua Jarvis, an Executive Director at Allies, said, We are so happy to celebrate her accomplishments. She’s joined groups within her community and grown to participate more in her health. Latoya has a great team of support around her who will continue to guide her and help her grow.”

Latoya is an example of how determination and courage can positively impact one’s life. She made a commitment to work through challenges, and what some might consider barriers, to achieve more independence and live a happier life.