Honoring Shirley: 20 Years of Service, A World of Memories Ahead

In a few months’ time, Shirley Hollandsworth will be off on faraway adventures, sampling fun foods in Istanbul, exploring the sights, and twirling pasta in Rome. She will be creating new memories doing what she loves most: traveling the world.

But wherever she goes, her experiences at Graceworks will remain close to her heart. These are memories near and dear that will travel with her.

This October, Shirley will retire after 20 dedicated years as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in Graceworks Enhanced Living homes. She has spent her career alongside adults with developmental disabilities, empowering individuals through a Gentle Teaching approach and home-centered care. For Shirley, this work has turned into two decades filled with warmth, love, and adventures throughout the greater Cincinnati area.

Her days have been filled with laughter, conversation, encouragement, and countless everyday moments that have built a lifetime of connection. Shirley embodies Graceworks’ mission through her kindness, patience, and commitment to helping others experience dignity and thrive in community.

One of Shirley’s most treasured memories is when she accidentally ended up on the jumbotron during an outing to a Reds game with Reds Superfan Bo, who was overjoyed with the experience.

“It really is about the love,” Shirley said. “I’ve learned so much, and this has been such a great experience. It comes down to love, and I feel like I am leaving home.”

Shirley has been particularly inspired by the Gentle Teaching philosophy she learned throughout her training at Graceworks, where every interaction is infused with thoughtfulness, nurturing care and support.

She admits retirement will be bittersweet because of the deep bonds she has made. Still, she is excited to continue pursuing her passion for travel. On past trips, she has visited places like Kenya and Tanzania, exploring new cultures and experiencing new adventures with every journey. Her upcoming trips to Istanbul and Rome are already on the horizon, but she says her time at Graceworks will never be far from view.