Meet Cleo Johnson

Cleo Johnson, Rise’s Champion of the Month for April 2026, has been with Rise for a little over a year and a half, working as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at our Coon Rapids site. Before joining Rise, she worked as a social worker in Liberia, where she distributed food and medicine to those who were less fortunate. That experience shaped the care and compassion she brings to her role today. 

When asked why she chose Rise, Cleo shared that she enjoys working alongside both the people she supports and her team members, saying, “Watching all of us make a difference has been life-changing.” Over time, her role has encouraged her to grow by pushing her outside of her comfort zone and helping her build new skills, including supporting crafts and activities.

Cleo’s Impact

Cleo’s teammates have described her as a dependable and uplifting presence at Rise Coon Rapids – someone who brings consistency and positivity to every shift. As one team member noted, “She jumps in wherever she’s needed, is a team player, and is always positive and smiling. People know they can count on her.” That reliability has shown in how Cleo approaches her work each day, staying focused, following through, and navigating challenges with a calm, solutions-oriented mindset. She actively looks for ways to improve processes, steps in to help where needed, and focuses on solutions rather than obstacles.

Cleo has also brought creativity to her role, often leading crafts and activities with enthusiasm and fresh ideas. Her team has noted her initiative and passion for arts and crafts. Whether she’s organizing activities or stepping into a different area to support others, Cleo has adapted easily and is always willing to pitch in.

As one Rise team member summed it up, “Cleo is an amazing addition to Rise. She’s kind, compassionate, good-hearted, radiates positivity, and is a great team player.” Her supervisor, Jen Kovensky, echoed that sentiment, adding, “Cleo embodies the values we strive for as a team, and her presence is one of a kind. She is a wonderful addition to Rise, and we are incredibly grateful to have her as part of our Coon Rapids team.”

Cleo Outside of Rise

Outside of Rise, Cleo enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and shopping.