Dedicated professional with over 30 years of experience in the disability community, specializing in advocacy, inclusive practices, and person-centered support. Proven track record of effective collaboration with individuals, families, service providers, and multidisciplinary teams to enhance accessibility, equity, and independence. Committed to fostering environments that empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their goals and lead fulfilling lives.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Home to School Coordinator
State of Missouri School for Severely and Profoundly Disabled Students
04.2024 - Current
Mentor new home to school coordinators, providing support and guidance that contributed to their professional growth.
Strengthen relationships with local organizations through networking and collaboration, maximizing opportunities for resource sharing.
Communicate with parents to access unmet needs at home and in the community.
Facilitate social and emotional lessons in the classroom for all ages.
Increase parent involvement in the school community by creating interactive workshops and informational sessions.
Maintain accurate documentation on all cases, ensuring compliance with regulations and confidentiality requirements.
Conduct thorough assessments of students situations, identifying issues, goals, and necessary interventions.
Assist families in applying for state and federal programs (i.e. Medicaid, SNAP, Social Security benefits)
Community Outreach Lead/Case Manager III
Connections Abilities Resources
11.2020 - 03.2024
Provided mentorship to case managers, fostering professional growth within the team.
Supervised outreach specialists and led the community outreach program.
Facilitated regular meetings with clients, ensuring progress towards goals was on track and addressing any barriers.
Completed applications for state and federal benefits such as Medicaid, Social Security benefits, SNAP and housing resources.
Networked with other professionals to gather information regarding resources and services.
Developed customized workshop content to address the needs of the disability community.
Educated families on available community resources, connecting them with essential services such as housing assistance, financial aid, or healthcare providers.
Interviewed clients, families, or groups to assess situations, limitations and issues and coordinated services to address needs.
Maintained accurate case documentation, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and facilitating informed decision-making by team members.
Case Manager I/II
Connections Abilities Resources
06.2017 - 11.2020
Assessed clients' needs, developed individualized support plans and other tools, and monitored progress towards goals.
Facilitated communication between individuals, families, guardians and other agencies to ensure clients' needs were met.
Linked individuals to area resources.
Maintained records and documents to comply with state regulations.
Led the Aging and Disabilities team and developed new-employee training to better serve the aging population with disabilities.
Humanitarian Aid/Cross-Cultural Worker
International Mission Board
11.1998 - 05.2017
Facilitated meetings with nationals and other aid workers to assess needs and develop a plan for implementation.
Taught English as a Second Language.
Developed assessments to identify the needs of those with disabilities.
Provided logistical support to volunteer teams.
Maintained records and documents.
Trained and mentored other aid workers.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology And Sociology
Southwest Baptist University
Bolivar, MO
05.1989
Skills
Effective verbal communication and concise written communication
Competent in using Microsoft Office tools
Efficient task management
Independently motivated
Analytical problem-solving
Meticulous attention to detail
Effective interviewing techniques
Effective time management
Engaged listening skills
Home and Community Based Waiver services/State Plan supports
Working knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid, managed care and other state and federal programs
Timeline
Home to School Coordinator
State of Missouri School for Severely and Profoundly Disabled Students