HeartShare assists individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities and provides vital services to children and families.

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everyday hero

Everyday Heroes

What is an Everyday Hero?

An Everyday Hero is a Direct Support Professional who contributes to the lives of people with developmental disabilities. In particular, these special professionals assist individuals in building meaningful relationships and help them become an integral part of their local community.

How will I know if I am one?

At HeartShare, our Everyday Heroes exemplify the following 10 characteristics:

  • Advocate
  • Team Player
  • Sensitive
  • Honors our Individuals
  • Has the BIG Picture
  • Dependable
  • Takes on Challenges
  • Trustworthy
  • Energized
  • Creative/Resourceful
  • Leader
  • Role Model

Everyday Heroes Quilt

everyday heroes quilt

The Everyday Heroes Quilt is a compilation of love and creativity representing all of the Developmental Disabilities programs at HeartShare. Each program contributed one square around the theme, "The Sky's the Limit," incorporating images and symbols that represent the unique individuals served and their direct support professionals - the Everyday Heroes - as they reach for the sky in their daily lives. This year-long project also involved the hard work of members of the Everyday Heroes Leadership Committee as well as other skilled "quilters" at HeartShare.

Calendar of Activites

  • 4th Annual Everyday Heroes Celebration and Luncheon (Group A)--April 7, 2011
  • Everyday Heroes Poster Contest--April
  • Everyday Heroes Month--June
  • 4th Annual Everyday Heroes Celebration & Luncheon (Group B)--October 13, 2011
  • Everyday Heroes Profile in InSights Magazine--Winter and Summer issues

Past Events


Who are Everyday Heroes at HeartShare?

The following staff members were profiled in HeartShare's InSights magazine.

Where can I find more information about Everyday Heroes throughout New York?

New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities has a web page with more information.