Meet Patrick Vedasto

Patrick Vedasto, Rise’s Champion of the Month for September 2025, has been a Direct Support Professional (DSP) for three years, and has stood out as a dependable and respected member of the team at Rise Crystal. 

Before joining Rise, Patrick worked as a financial and leadership professional in Texas. When he returned to Minnesota, he decided to take his career in a new direction – one that allowed him to make a difference in people’s lives every day. 

“One day, I met someone who used to work at Rise, and she educated me on what she did for a living, and I was impacted by her response,” Patrick shared. “I said, ‘Please sign me up,’ and the rest is history.” 

Since then, Patrick has found purpose and joy in his work as a DSP. “Working and engaging with the people we service has completely changed my perspective, and I love the people I support dearly.”

Patrick’s Impact

Patrick’s dedication was on full display recently when he noticed a potential safety and well-being concern with a person served by Rise in a setting unrelated to Rise’s programs or locations. Acting immediately, Patrick addressed the issue, emphasizing the importance of proper reporting and care. He made sure the incident was followed up appropriately, communicated effectively with his managers, and ensured the situation was handled properly. 

His coworker, Timothy Sarell, shared, “Patrick’s strong and compassionate actions exemplified all three of Rise’s standards of excellence – respect, accountability, and adaptability. He handled a difficult situation with professionalism and care, holding others accountable while remaining calm, kind, and focused on the well-being of the person served.” 

Patrick’s supervisor, Maurice Linston, also felt Patrick was deserving of this recognition, “Patrick comes to work on time every day. He is never late. He’s a great example for the team and a good candidate for Champion of the Month.” 

Patrick has not only shown leadership through his actions but has also gone out of his way to welcome new employees and support his teammates. A colleague shared, “Patrick exemplifies all of the values that we strive to uphold in our daily work life.” His positive attitude and dedication make him a trusted and valued member of the Rise team. 

Patrick shared, “Working with people we serve has changed my understanding, and it makes me happy to know that I can make an impact on these people’s lives.”

Patrick Outside of Rise

Outside of Rise, Patrick enjoys spending time with his children and grandchildren. He shared, “In my spare time I love to babysit my grandchildren or play ball with my oldest grandson, Noah.” He also enjoys spending time at his community church participating in activities and volunteer opportunities.