Heather Valeo

Represent BrainBuilders as first point of contact for all new families. Complete detailed family/child profile to assess needs and confirm expectation. Collect and transfer insurance information to Insurance Manager to confirm benefits. Relay intake process and confirm receipt of intake documents. Follow families and provide necessary supports through services with agency. Expand growth and development of agency into selected locations of NJ as well as other states. Partner with other directors to coordinate content campaigns that drive name recognition and grow client base. Identify marketing and branding opportunities to increase potential family traffic. Develop relationships in community through "lunch & learn", parent trainings, and recreational activities to drive awareness and interest. Proactively manage advocacy efforts on behalf of children and families served. Partner with county and state boards, school district child study teams, as well as local organizations and medical providers to develop preferred vendor status. Keep agency relevant and involved with current Autism trends and changes. Promote family first culture of excellence through company messaging, staff interaction, and fluid family communication.

Be first point of contact for families looking for support. Take detailed information to create family profile, acknowledge needs, relay supports available, and provide any follow up needed. Partner with local and state agencies to secure resources for families of special needs individuals in following areas:

employment, medical/dental, medication access, financial, legal, social/emotional, mental health, transportation, education, domestic violence, addiction, personal advocacy, assistive devices, home alterations, nutrition, recreation, respite, housing, and camps. Attend education seminars and acquire certifications through SPAN, College of Direct Supports, POAC, and local/state partners to increase resource data base for families. Relay trends and change in family needs to senior management.

Provide daily presence at CSH to meet and greet families, assess any additional needs, and relay information to senior leadership. Provide senior leadership with family perspective to create family centered environment from first interaction throughout all organizational processes. Partner with families and organization to maintain a fluid relationship. Increase community awareness of organization and match families with appropriate community activities and supports. Create and find programs to suit families need and organization mission. Engage community, county, and state partners to hear the voices of our families and to help partners direct our families with compassion and respect. Communicate fun ways to engage staff and keep high morale. Provide a platform to address family and community needs. Maintain organization leadership status through internal and external education seminars, events, and community branding.