She’s been a part of two families for nearly two decades

When we say the Olean Center is here to provide support for families and individuals, we’re talking about people like Kathleen Higgins. 

Kathleen has become, essentially, another member of several families through her 20-plus years of work with the Olean Center, mostly in the Children’s Program. While Kathleen has touched many lives over that time, two cases in particular illustrate her commitment to Olean Center families.  

In 2004, a colleague in the school district suggested to Kathleen that her “knack for working with children” as a paraprofessional made her the ideal candidate to work with a family and their 5-year-old son through the Center’s Home-Based Therapeutic Services program. Today, Kathleen remains committed to that same family and supports the goals and dreams of their now 21-year-old son, who has transitioned into the Adults Program.  

That same scenario of a long-term commitment by Kathleen played out with friends of that family as well, creating a small community with Kathleen serving as a support hub for these two young men and their families!  

“The families know each other and the boys grew up together, so it works well for everyone,” Kathleen said.   

“Kathleen is very consistent, competent, reliable and a great communicator,” said Jason Lanzillo, Director of Children’s Services. “She’s really everything you’d want in a direct support staff!”