For more than 22 years, Esther Mensah has been a pillar of The Arc of Essex County’s Day Programs, known for her compassion, skill, and unwavering dedication as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and technician.
Esther started as a substitute before taking on full-time work with The Arc. Although she had worked in group homes before she joined The Arc team, she has been in Day Programs throughout her time at The Arc of Essex County, starting in Verona and then Caldwell, before finding her home at the West Caldwell Hub. In that time, she has developed a natural connection to the individuals she supports.
One of the defining influences in Esther’s career was her cousin, who taught her to truly observe and listen to people in order to understand their needs. This lesson became a cornerstone of her approach, and Esther quickly stood out for her keen ability to tune in and respond thoughtfully to those around her. She is known for her skill in gently redirecting individuals who are having a tough time, helping them find calm and focus. Her work is not just about guidance, but also about building genuine bonds and fostering an environment where growth feels possible. “I’m here because of these guys,” she says of the West Caldwell Hub Day Program participants. “They give me the motivation.”
What brings Esther the greatest joy is recognizing potential in others. Whether it’s supporting someone as they learn to read or master a new skill, she is relentless in her encouragement, always pushing individuals to achieve more than they thought possible. “The more you work with them, the more attached you are to them and the more you know how to support them,” she reflects. Her nurturing spirit creates opportunities for both achievement and connection, and those around her flourish because of it.
Esther’s genuine love for her work and her clients is evident in every interaction. “I just love it when I’m with them. Whether we’re talking or saying nothing, everything is positive.” She considers her role a blessing, saying, “We are here to help other people, and that’s what I’m happy to do.”
Kristina Olszewski, Director of Day Services, describes Esther as having “unwavering dedication to The Arc and to the West Caldwell Hub. She is a very hard-working person and very familiar with all of our individuals and is someone we can count on.” Esther’s deep knowledge and reliability have made her an indispensable part of The Arc family.