Celebrating Leon Heinrich, Ability Point’s Direct Care Staff of the Year

For more than a decade, Leon Heinrich has been making an impact at Goodwill Industries of Kansas through compassion, consistency, and a genuine dedication to helping others succeed. Leon was recognized for his work by receiving AbilityPoint’s Direct Care Staff of the Year award this year.

Leon joined Goodwill in 2013 and has spent the last 12 years supporting individuals in our Day Services programs as they build life skills, job readiness, and independence.

“I believe there are a lot of success stories,” Leon shared. “The main goal I have is to help individuals become more independent. You notice the small achievements, and then you get to see them grow into bigger accomplishments.”

Over the years, Leon has watched Day Services evolve with new opportunities and projects that help individuals gain real-world skills and confidence.

“I enjoy working here because I’ve seen different projects brought to Day Services that allow the individuals we serve to gain skills they can take into the real world,” he said.

One of those individuals is Chris Leon, who began attending Goodwill’s Skills Development Adult Day Program in 2021. From the very first day, Chris formed a connection with Leon, especially after discovering they shared the same first (and last) name.

Chris’ mother, Pat Leon, nominated Leon for the award after witnessing firsthand the impact he has had on her son’s life over the past five years.

In her nomination, Pat described how Leon helped Chris transition into the program, develop workplace and coping skills, and gain confidence both on and off the job.

“Leon has been instrumental in helping Chris gain job skills as well as coping skills in the workplace,” Pat said. “When Chris has been frustrated with tasks, coworkers, or just having a bad day, Leon has always been there to understand and help Chris through his challenges.”

She also shared how Leon’s support helped Chris grow enough to eventually receive a Goodwill Achiever of the Year Award himself.

“Leon cares about all the workers like they are family and strives to help them succeed to their fullest potential, both on and off the job,” she wrote.

And while every day may look different, Leon says the structured environment of the program helps individuals thrive. When asked about receiving the award, Leon admitted he was surprised.

“I was shocked that I was nominated for this award,” he said. “I don’t do this work for awards and acknowledgement. It was very much appreciated and an honor to be recognized.”

Through patience, encouragement, and a commitment to helping others grow, Leon continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of the individuals he supports every single day.