EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: JPPS II Sammy Williams

This month's Employee Spotlight shines on Juvenile Probation/Parole Specialist II (JPPS) Sammy Williams of the Toombs Community Services Office. Recently selected as Employee of the Month for the Division of Community Services, JPPS Williams is the true definition of a team player, doing what it takes to help his coworkers serve youth in East Central Georgia.

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JPPS II Sammy Williams of the Toombs CSO

Employed with the Department of Juvenile Justice since 2004, JPPS Williams believes that part of his purpose in life is to serve children in need. "Before joining DJJ, I worked in both foster care and daycare," Williams said. "I took another career opportunity for two years that did not involve working with young adults and was immediately drawn back. Working with DJJ is my life calling."

It is part of his nature to serve that Williams is so modest about and why he was nominated for Employee of the Month. He recently helped two coworkers through medical emergencies. In Williams' eyes, his coworkers are part of his extended family and that he was doing his job in helping them out.

Despite this mindset, Sammy's work during two separate medical issues went above and beyond the call of duty. During each incident (one a bad reaction to medicine and the other a blood sugar regulation problem), Sammy stayed calm and provided comfort and support during trying moments. His calm demeanor ensured that proper medical treatment took place and comforted his coworkers.

This selfless behavior is in keeping with Sammy's mindset. Much like working with youth in the community, not everything will be perfect or go as according to plan. However, when things fall into place, the results can be rewarding.

Williams shared a recent example that illustrates the emotional positives gained by working hard as a teammate for a larger good. Meeting up with a former youth under his probationary care, Williams was proud that the young man had turned his life around and was now a productive member of the community. While both have positive stories now, the former youth apologized for being such a disruptive person. Upon hearing this, Williams mildly disagreed and told him that all most people need is a bit of direction and guidance.