Aspire’s Sasha Fontaine Featured in Frontline Initiative Publication and Podcast
Aspire is proud to recognize Sasha Fontaine, whose experiences and insights are being featured in Frontline Initiative, a leading publication for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and Frontline Supervisors.
Published by the Institute on Community Integration at the University of Minnesota in partnership with the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), Frontline Initiative highlights real stories, experiences, and ideas from people working in the field of disability services.
Sasha’s article, “Why Not Try?”, reflects on her years of supporting Paula and the lessons she has learned about communication, understanding, and creating meaningful opportunities for the people we support.
When Sasha first began working with Paula in 2013, she didn’t fully understand how to communicate with someone who did not use spoken language. Over time, she learned that communication goes far beyond words. By paying attention to Paula’s expressions, reactions, and interests, Sasha discovered the activities and experiences that brought her joy, from listening to rock and roll to attending dances and even trying adaptive water skiing!
Through Paula’s story, Sasha encourages fellow Direct Support Professionals to challenge assumptions, offer new experiences, and take the time to understand each person’s unique way of communicating.
One of the most meaningful takeaways from her article is a simple but powerful message: Don’t assume that just because someone cannot communicate with words, they aren’t communicating at all. Sometimes, they’re just waiting for us to learn how to listen.
Sasha’s article is a wonderful reflection of the person-centered support Aspire strives to provide every day. We are grateful for her willingness to share her experiences and offer encouragement to other professionals in the field.
In addition to her published article, Sasha was also interviewed for a Frontline Initiative podcast, giving listeners another opportunity to hear her perspective and learn more about the experiences behind her story.
Congratulations, Sasha! We are proud to see you sharing your knowledge, experiences, and passion for supporting others with a broader audience!
Read Sasha’s article here:
Why Not Try? – Frontline Initiative | NADSP Code of Ethics | Fall 2026
Listen to the podcast by clicking this link:
Frontline Initiative Podcast – Episode 13: “Why not Try?” with Guest Sasha Fontaine, DSP, Aspire Inc., Aberdeen, South Dakota