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At the Woodside IRA in Queens, ten residents spent a recent summer afternoon unwinding with face masks, manicures, soft music, and even back massages—all without ever leaving the house. The reason? A first-of-its-kind spa day organized by Shunika Caleb, a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at the home.
“I felt very relaxed, and the day helped take my mind off of things,” said Xue Ying Cao, who goes by Kathy, at the home.
“I loved the facial masks,” said Tyler Crooks, another resident. “It made my face feel very smooth.”
Held on July 12, the day was designed to give the residents a chance to relax and be pampered in a comfortable, familiar environment. Residents arrived in cozy pajamas and were treated to facials, nail clipping, foot soaks, and hair styling. The space was decorated to evoke the calming feel of a real spa, complete with a spread of cupcakes, cake, fruit salad, and sparkling water.
“I just wanted them to have a day where they could unwind and feel good,” said Caleb. “They work so hard, going to school, work, appointments. They deserve to feel taken care of, too.”
The idea stemmed from Caleb’s previous experience working with adolescents in group homes, where creating therapeutic activities was part of her daily work. Since joining YAI four years ago, she’s brought that same spirit of creativity and care into her role as a DSP.
Residents also received a customized goodie bag filled with items like facial lotion, lip balm, nail clippers, and even small teddy bears at the end of the day.
For Caleb, spa day wasn’t just about offering a fun afternoon, it was about meeting people where they are.
“Some of the people we support are introverts and they don’t always want to go out,” she said. “So bringing the spa to them made it more comfortable and still just as special."
The event also inspired this past weekend’s backyard tie-dye event, where residents created their own colorful socks, T-shirts, and bags.
“Seeing the people we support happy is what it’s all about,” said Caleb. “If I can bring joy into the home and make them smile, then I’ve done my job.”