Cathy Bennett
Corpus Christi
Summary
Results-driven Executive Director experienced in community engagement, program management, and financial oversight. Achieved program effectiveness through fostering strategic partnerships and optimizing resource allocation. Focused on mentoring staff and advocating for policy changes that align with organizational missions and community needs.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive Director
Community Options Inc
09.2021 - Current
- Led cross-functional teams to achieve organizational goals and drive program effectiveness.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through data analysis, driving continuous improvement strategies.
- Implemented operational policies to streamline resource allocation and improve service delivery.
- Fostered partnerships with local stakeholders to expand outreach and collaboration efforts.
- Developed strategic initiatives to enhance community engagement and support programs.
- Mentored staff members, enhancing leadership skills and promoting professional development opportunities.
- Managed budgeting processes, ensuring financial sustainability for community programs and services.
- Advocated for policy changes impacting community resources, aligning with organizational mission and values.
- Worked closely with organizational leadership and board of directors to guide operational strategy.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Guided staff through periods of organizational change, maintaining morale and engagement during transitions.
- Forged strong relationships with board members, providing regular updates on organizational progress and soliciting their expertise when needed.
- Monitored compliance with laws and regulations to protect organization from legal liabilities and penalties.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a collaborative work environment for increased productivity.
- Fostered a work culture of collaboration and inclusion to increase morale and reduce turnover.
- Built relationships with donors, government officials and other organizations to secure funding and support for the organization.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging professional development opportunities for staff members.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing favorable terms while adhering to budgetary constraints.
- Represented the organization to the local public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
- Exercised appropriate cost control to meet budget restrictions and maximize profitability.
- Collaborated with external organizations including non-profits, businesses and government agencies to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Developed strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to expand the organization''s reach and influence.
- Drove strategic improvements to enhance operational and organizational efficiencies.
- Led successful fundraising campaigns, securing critical resources for program development and expansion.
- Advocated for the organization and company mission to raise awareness and support.
- Championed diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the organization to create a more inclusive work environment.
- Built and maintained strong company teams by hiring and training qualified staff to create positive and productive work environments.
DSP
Richmond State Supported Living Center
10.2010 - 01.2018
- Developed and implemented individualized support plans to enhance client independence and quality of life.
- Supported individuals with developmental disabilities in daily living activities and personal care.
- Facilitated communication between clients, families, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure optimal care.
- Monitored client behavior and documented progress, adjusting strategies as necessary for effectiveness.
- Trained new staff on best practices for client interaction and safety protocols in supportive environments.
- Advocated for clients' needs, ensuring access to resources and services within the community.
- Organized recreational activities that promoted socialization, skill development, and emotional well-being among clients.
- Led team meetings to discuss client progress, share insights, and develop collaborative strategies for improvement.
- Documented progress notes thoroughly to track client achievements, concerns, or changes in behavior patterns that may need attention from the interdisciplinary team.
- Maintained clean, safe, and well-organized patient environment.
- Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
- Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
- Enhanced quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing compassionate and consistent direct support.
- Supported clients with personal care tasks, ensuring their dignity and privacy were maintained at all times.
Truck Driver
THREE B TRUCKING
12.2000 - 09.2009
- Operated and maintained commercial vehicles to ensure safe and timely deliveries.
- Navigated various routes using GPS technology to optimize delivery efficiency.
- Conducted pre-trip and post-trip inspections to adhere to safety regulations.
- Managed documentation for deliveries, including bills of lading and logs.
- Communicated with dispatchers to coordinate schedules and resolve issues promptly.
- Implemented best practices for load securing to prevent damage during transport.
Direct Support Professional
Corpus Christi State Supported Living Center
07.1994 - 02.1997
- Provided direct care and support to individuals with disabilities, enhancing daily living skills and independence.
- Implemented individualized care plans to ensure consistency and effectiveness in service delivery.
- Assisted in behavioral management techniques, promoting positive interactions and reducing challenging behaviors.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate comprehensive care for residents, ensuring holistic support.
Sales Associate
Loves Travel Stop
05.1990 - 07.1992
- Delivered exceptional customer service to enhance guest experiences and drive repeat business.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth daily operations and meet sales goals.
- Processed transactions accurately and efficiently using point-of-sale systems.
- Maintained inventory levels through regular stock checks and effective organization.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
ARIZONA GLOBAL UNIVERSITY
Phoenix, AZ06-2024
Skills
- Program development
- Strategic planning
- Project management
- Financial budgeting
- Financial oversight
- Operations management
- Regulatory compliance
- Team leadership
- Leadership development
- Community outreach
- Program direction
- Relationship building
- Stakeholder engagement
- Innovation and creativity
- Nonprofit management
Accomplishments
- Supervised a team of 35 staff members.
Has led a yearly fundraiser for people living with disabilities that has become an annual event.
Certification
- Duke University Management Training - 2025
Timeline
Executive Director
Community Options Inc
09.2021 - Current
DSP
Richmond State Supported Living Center
10.2010 - 01.2018
Truck Driver
THREE B TRUCKING
12.2000 - 09.2009
Direct Support Professional
Corpus Christi State Supported Living Center
07.1994 - 02.1997
Sales Associate
Loves Travel Stop
05.1990 - 07.1992
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
ARIZONA GLOBAL UNIVERSITY