Aroostook County woman named 2026 Maine Direct Support Professional of the Year

DYER BROOK, Maine (WAGM) - An Aroostook County woman has been named the 2026 Maine Direct Support Professional of the Year.

Kim McLaughlin of Dyer Brook will receive the award later this month in Boston. The American Network of Community Opportunity and Resources will present McLaughlin with the honor during the ANCOR conference.

McLaughlin said she never expected to receive the recognition.

“I’m really at a loss for words,” McLaughlin said. “When I found out I was nominated I felt very honored. I work with a lot of Direct Care Professionals that would also be great nominations and award recipients. So, the fact that I was selected is very humbling and is a huge honor.”

Helping people connect with opportunities

McLaughlin said her work is not about recognition. Instead, she said it’s about helping people connect with opportunities and live fulfilling lives.

“One of my huge passions is getting people connected, making meaningful relationships, finding out what their passions are and what brings purpose to their lives,” McLaughlin said. “There’s not a lot of people who put the effort into making sure everybody has the same opportunities regardless of their ability.”

McLaughlin said the job is rewarding every day.

“Some of the most rewarding things are like when you help somebody get a job and you take them to the bank and they open their first checking account,” McLaughlin said. “The excitement and the joy over things that a lot of people take for granted. Everybody deserves to have a life that brings them joy and happiness.”

Since her nomination, McLaughlin has taken on a new role and is now the Quality and Compliance Specialist for 3 Rivers in Island Falls.