ripple of hope awards 2014
DESCRIPTION
November 19, 2014 Newseum, Washington, D.C.TRANSCRIPT
Presentation of The MENTOR Network’s
November 19, 2014Newseum, Washington, D.C.
The MENTOR Network | 19
Kortney Johnson
Danielle Jordan
Sara Jurado
Elvira Kalalo
Jan Kells
Marta Ketter
Sieta Kiner
Jo King
Jo Etta King
Jessica KlimeshJane Klug
Magdalena Knas
Donna Krumov
Annamma Kurien
Tim LaBrieSydni LaJoie
Richard Lane
Wanda Lebron and Luis Estevez
Andrea Leckscheid
Kristina Lee
Kaycee Lele
Julie Lennon
Valarie Levy
Yila Lienert
Amanda Lindburg
Brittney Lindsey
Justin Little
Elaine Lortscher
Stephanie Machado
Mike Maddox
Patti Maguire
Brenda Malitsky
Safi Martin
Bethany Martin
Marie Mason
Maranda Mathews
Colleen Mathias
Liliana McDonough
Dianne McGinnRobin McInnis
Ana Mejia
Brian Meyer
Victoria Michalsky
Tammi Mitei
Norma Mojica
Juanita Montelongo
Elena Morales
Natalie Morey
Christy Morris
Natasha Mosley
Peter Mullaney
Tiffany Nall
James Ndungu
Traci Nelson
Marco Noel
Mark Norris
Ana Nunez
Christine O’Brien
Roger and Lori Orcutt
Nate Orcutt and Dana DeBoer
Luc Orellana
Nicole Paicopoulos
Ketzia Pandian
Amy Parola
Jennifer Parsons
James Patino
Pennsylvania MENTOR
Recruitment Team
Latroy Pepper
Carl and DeWanda Pickens
Victoria Pindur
Marina Pineda
Chamila Piyathlika
Tanesha Pough
Michael Price
Miracle PygumMary Radcliffe
Eileen Ralston
Marcia Ramos
Suzanne and Brian Revers
Edwin Reyes
DeShawn Riley
Norma Rivera
Carol Roberts
Orlando Robinson
Lidiana Rodriguez
Lisa Rodriguez
Paulina Rodriguez
Colm Roe
Bonnie Rosentel
Robert Ruskowski
Tamera Russo
Reina Samaro
Rachel Sampson
Christina Sanchez
Phyllis Santos
Leticia Santoscoy
T
Ciara Schroepfer-Reynolds
Youlanda Senegal
Dion Serrano
Catherine Sewall
Jamie Showers
Amanda Skinner
Deb Slick
Arvis Smith
Chasitiy Smith
Jean Snow
Anne Sopousek
Dawn Sorrell
Steven and Ruth Soto
Anthony Sparacino
Curtis Sparks
pUrsula Spont
Brooklyn Staff
Keri Stewart
Desiree Stinauer
Tammy Stone
Mary Stueber
Laura Tabers
Teresa Tavares
Gary Tegels
Texas MENTOR
Management Team
Adam Thione
Natasha Thomas
Jeannie Thomas
Israel Tlaseca
Yasmin Torres
Maria Torres
Karen Torres
Diane Triplett
Jason Trombley
Erin Trulli
Diana Tudor
Heather Uecker
Clorinda Urzua
Lori Vacchiano
Elida Valle
Rose Vankeuren
Janelle Vasquez
Amanda Waddell
Ginna Wagner
Irene Walker
Donna Walker
Renita Walker
Chris Washko
Darryl Watson
Rachel Weaver
Constance and David WestJason Wheeler
Carlin White
Donada Williams
Sandra Williamson
Elaine Wilson
Eni Winarni
Jacob Witon
Julia Wojciechowski
Sharon Youngs
Joan Zimbrick
The MENTOR Network | 19
Kortney Johnson
Danielle Jordan
Sara Jurado
Elvira Kalalo
Jan Kells
Marta Ketter
Sieta Kiner
Jo King
Jo Etta King
Jessica KlimeshJane Klug
Magdalena Knas
Donna Krumov
Annamma Kurien
Tim LaBrieSydni LaJoie
Richard Lane
Wanda Lebron and Luis Estevez
Andrea Leckscheid
Kristina Lee
Kaycee Lele
Julie Lennon
Valarie Levy
Yila Lienert
Amanda Lindburg
Brittney Lindsey
Justin Little
Elaine Lortscher
Stephanie Machado
Mike Maddox
Patti Maguire
Brenda Malitsky
Safi Martin
Bethany Martin
Marie Mason
Maranda Mathews
Colleen Mathias
Liliana McDonough
Dianne McGinnRobin McInnis
Ana Mejia
Brian Meyer
Victoria Michalsky
Tammi Mitei
Norma Mojica
Juanita Montelongo
Elena Morales
Natalie Morey
Christy Morris
Natasha Mosley
Peter Mullaney
Tiffany Nall
James Ndungu
Traci Nelson
Marco Noel
Mark Norris
Ana Nunez
Christine O’Brien
Roger and Lori Orcutt
Nate Orcutt and Dana DeBoer
Luc Orellana
Nicole Paicopoulos
Ketzia Pandian
Amy Parola
Jennifer Parsons
James Patino
Pennsylvania MENTOR
Recruitment Team
Latroy Pepper
Carl and DeWanda Pickens
Victoria Pindur
Marina Pineda
Chamila Piyathlika
Tanesha Pough
Michael Price
Miracle PygumMary Radcliffe
Eileen Ralston
Marcia Ramos
Suzanne and Brian Revers
Edwin Reyes
DeShawn Riley
Norma Rivera
Carol Roberts
Orlando Robinson
Lidiana Rodriguez
Lisa Rodriguez
Paulina Rodriguez
Colm Roe
Bonnie Rosentel
Robert Ruskowski
Tamera Russo
Reina Samaro
Rachel Sampson
Christina Sanchez
Phyllis Santos
Leticia Santoscoy
T
Ciara Schroepfer-Reynolds
Youlanda Senegal
Dion Serrano
Catherine Sewall
Jamie Showers
Amanda Skinner
Deb Slick
Arvis Smith
Chasitiy Smith
Jean Snow
Anne Sopousek
Dawn Sorrell
Steven and Ruth Soto
Anthony Sparacino
Curtis Sparks
pUrsula Spont
Brooklyn Staff
Keri Stewart
Desiree Stinauer
Tammy Stone
Mary Stueber
Laura Tabers
Teresa Tavares
Gary Tegels
Texas MENTOR
Management Team
Adam Thione
Natasha Thomas
Jeannie Thomas
Israel Tlaseca
Yasmin Torres
Maria Torres
Karen Torres
Diane Triplett
Jason Trombley
Erin Trulli
Diana Tudor
Heather Uecker
Clorinda Urzua
Lori Vacchiano
Elida Valle
Rose Vankeuren
Janelle Vasquez
Amanda Waddell
Ginna Wagner
Irene Walker
Donna Walker
Renita Walker
Chris Washko
Darryl Watson
Rachel Weaver
Constance and David WestJason Wheeler
Carlin White
Donada Williams
Sandra Williamson
Elaine Wilson
Eni Winarni
Jacob Witon
Julia Wojciechowski
Sharon Youngs
Joan Zimbrick
amma Schlaultman
amma Schlaultman
The mission of The MENTOR Network is to
offer adults, adolescents and children, as well
as their families, innovative, quality services and
supports that lead to growth and independence,
regardless of the physical, intellectual or behavioral
challenges they face. The Network’s philosophy
emphasizes partnerships—with those we serve,
their families, our employees, Mentors, payors and
the communities in which we work—in an effort to
help people shape the direction of their own lives in
community-based settings.
Presentation of the 2014
November 19, 2014
Newseum, Washington, D.C.
The mission of The MENTOR Network is to
offer adults, adolescents and children, as well
as their families, innovative, quality services and
supports that lead to growth and independence,
regardless of the physical, intellectual or behavioral
challenges they face. The Network’s philosophy
emphasizes partnerships—with those we serve,
their families, our employees, Mentors, payors and
the communities in which we work—in an effort to
help people shape the direction of their own lives in
community-based settings.
Presentation of the 2014
November 19, 2014
Newseum, Washington, D.C.
The MENTOR Network | 19
Kortney Johnson
Danielle Jordan
Sara Jurado
Elvira Kalalo
Jan Kells
Marta Ketter
Sieta Kiner
Jo King
Jo Etta King
Jessica KlimeshJane Klug
Magdalena Knas
Donna Krumov
Annamma Kurien
Tim LaBrieSydni LaJoie
Richard Lane
Wanda Lebron and Luis Estevez
Andrea Leckscheid
Kristina Lee
Kaycee Lele
Julie Lennon
Valarie Levy
Yila Lienert
Amanda Lindburg
Brittney Lindsey
Justin Little
Elaine Lortscher
Stephanie Machado
Mike Maddox
Patti Maguire
Brenda Malitsky
Safi Martin
Bethany Martin
Marie Mason
Maranda Mathews
Colleen Mathias
Liliana McDonough
Dianne McGinnRobin McInnis
Ana Mejia
Brian Meyer
Victoria Michalsky
Tammi Mitei
Norma Mojica
Juanita Montelongo
Elena Morales
Natalie Morey
Christy Morris
Natasha Mosley
Peter Mullaney
Tiffany Nall
James Ndungu
Traci Nelson
Marco Noel
Mark Norris
Ana Nunez
Christine O’Brien
Roger and Lori Orcutt
Nate Orcutt and Dana DeBoer
Luc Orellana
Nicole Paicopoulos
Ketzia Pandian
Amy Parola
Jennifer Parsons
James Patino
Pennsylvania MENTOR
Recruitment Team
Latroy Pepper
Carl and DeWanda Pickens
Victoria Pindur
Marina Pineda
Chamila Piyathlika
Tanesha Pough
Michael Price
Miracle PygumMary Radcliffe
Eileen Ralston
Marcia Ramos
Suzanne and Brian Revers
Edwin Reyes
DeShawn Riley
Norma Rivera
Carol Roberts
Orlando Robinson
Lidiana Rodriguez
Lisa Rodriguez
Paulina Rodriguez
Colm Roe
Bonnie Rosentel
Robert Ruskowski
Tamera Russo
Reina Samaro
Rachel Sampson
Christina Sanchez
Phyllis Santos
Leticia Santoscoy
T
Ciara Schroepfer-Reynolds
Youlanda Senegal
Dion Serrano
Catherine Sewall
Jamie Showers
Amanda Skinner
Deb Slick
Arvis Smith
Chasitiy Smith
Jean Snow
Anne Sopousek
Dawn Sorrell
Steven and Ruth Soto
Anthony Sparacino
Curtis Sparks
pUrsula Spont
Brooklyn Staff
Keri Stewart
Desiree Stinauer
Tammy Stone
Mary Stueber
Laura Tabers
Teresa Tavares
Gary Tegels
Texas MENTOR
Management Team
Adam Thione
Natasha Thomas
Jeannie Thomas
Israel Tlaseca
Yasmin Torres
Maria Torres
Karen Torres
Diane Triplett
Jason Trombley
Erin Trulli
Diana Tudor
Heather Uecker
Clorinda Urzua
Lori Vacchiano
Elida Valle
Rose Vankeuren
Janelle Vasquez
Amanda Waddell
Ginna Wagner
Irene Walker
Donna Walker
Renita Walker
Chris Washko
Darryl Watson
Rachel Weaver
Constance and David WestJason Wheeler
Carlin White
Donada Williams
Sandra Williamson
Elaine Wilson
Eni Winarni
Jacob Witon
Julia Wojciechowski
Sharon Youngs
Joan Zimbrick
The MENTOR Network | 19
Kortney Johnson
Danielle Jordan
Sara Jurado
Elvira Kalalo
Jan Kells
Marta Ketter
Sieta Kiner
Jo King
Jo Etta King
Jessica KlimeshJane Klug
Magdalena Knas
Donna Krumov
Annamma Kurien
Tim LaBrieSydni LaJoie
Richard Lane
Wanda Lebron and Luis Estevez
Andrea Leckscheid
Kristina Lee
Kaycee Lele
Julie Lennon
Valarie Levy
Yila Lienert
Amanda Lindburg
Brittney Lindsey
Justin Little
Elaine Lortscher
Stephanie Machado
Mike Maddox
Patti Maguire
Brenda Malitsky
Safi Martin
Bethany Martin
Marie Mason
Maranda Mathews
Colleen Mathias
Liliana McDonough
Dianne McGinnRobin McInnis
Ana Mejia
Brian Meyer
Victoria Michalsky
Tammi Mitei
Norma Mojica
Juanita Montelongo
Elena Morales
Natalie Morey
Christy Morris
Natasha Mosley
Peter Mullaney
Tiffany Nall
James Ndungu
Traci Nelson
Marco Noel
Mark Norris
Ana Nunez
Christine O’Brien
Roger and Lori Orcutt
Nate Orcutt and Dana DeBoer
Luc Orellana
Nicole Paicopoulos
Ketzia Pandian
Amy Parola
Jennifer Parsons
James Patino
Pennsylvania MENTOR
Recruitment Team
Latroy Pepper
Carl and DeWanda Pickens
Victoria Pindur
Marina Pineda
Chamila Piyathlika
Tanesha Pough
Michael Price
Miracle PygumMary Radcliffe
Eileen Ralston
Marcia Ramos
Suzanne and Brian Revers
Edwin Reyes
DeShawn Riley
Norma Rivera
Carol Roberts
Orlando Robinson
Lidiana Rodriguez
Lisa Rodriguez
Paulina Rodriguez
Colm Roe
Bonnie Rosentel
Robert Ruskowski
Tamera Russo
Reina Samaro
Rachel Sampson
Christina Sanchez
Phyllis Santos
Leticia Santoscoy
T
Ciara Schroepfer-Reynolds
Youlanda Senegal
Dion Serrano
Catherine Sewall
Jamie Showers
Amanda Skinner
Deb Slick
Arvis Smith
Chasitiy Smith
Jean Snow
Anne Sopousek
Dawn Sorrell
Steven and Ruth Soto
Anthony Sparacino
Curtis Sparks
pUrsula Spont
Brooklyn Staff
Keri Stewart
Desiree Stinauer
Tammy Stone
Mary Stueber
Laura Tabers
Teresa Tavares
Gary Tegels
Texas MENTOR
Management Team
Adam Thione
Natasha Thomas
Jeannie Thomas
Israel Tlaseca
Yasmin Torres
Maria Torres
Karen Torres
Diane Triplett
Jason Trombley
Erin Trulli
Diana Tudor
Heather Uecker
Clorinda Urzua
Lori Vacchiano
Elida Valle
Rose Vankeuren
Janelle Vasquez
Amanda Waddell
Ginna Wagner
Irene Walker
Donna Walker
Renita Walker
Chris Washko
Darryl Watson
Rachel Weaver
Constance and David WestJason Wheeler
Carlin White
Donada Williams
Sandra Williamson
Elaine Wilson
Eni Winarni
Jacob Witon
Julia Wojciechowski
Sharon Youngs
Joan Zimbrick
amma Schlaultman
amma Schlaultman
18 | The MENTOR Network
Thank you to all those who submitted nominations for The MENTOR Network’s 10th annual Ripple of Hope Awards.
Please join us in congratulating all of the 2014 nominees:
Carmen Aceves
Filemon Aguilar
Jessica Ahl
Andrea Alanis
Steve Anderson
Maria and Nat AponteDominique Atkins
Brandie Atkins
Danielle Aubin
Juliet Auguste
Helen Baker
Staci Barber
Karley Bastin
Marites Bautista
Alfredo Bayaca
Lisa Beach
Megan BeckettMadlene Beldose
James Bell
Todd and Heidi Benkert
Courtney Bennett
Kathrine Bigley
Beverly Bingham
Rachel Birmingham
Christina Bobitch
LeAnn Bosma
Oren Boulner
Michelle Bourne
LaToya Bragg-Finch
Milton and Cindy Brekle
Debbie Brown
Kristy Bruna
Reginia Buchannan
Cody Buchanon
Marina Burris
Cherrie Camper
Jill Canatsey
Lysandra Cano
Rob Carolan
Rufino Castellano
Dana Castine
Gary Chiaravalli
Beth Chouinard
Karen Christiana
Naomi Clark
Torita Clark
Rosemarie Coffey
Sabrina Collins
Janice Comtois
Rebecca Connolly
Marnicia Conway
Daniel Cordor
Nelida Cordova
Maria Cornell
Cassandra Counts
Barbara Cramer
Kimberly Craus
Beth Crawford
Manthana “Annie” Crist
Patrick Cusick
Terra Dawson
Kristy Devan
Debra Donndelinger
Donna Dylla
Annie Enriquez
Monica Evans
James Farley
Randi Farr
Ashley Farris
Kathy Fevig-Sproul
Mindy Finnenam-Feehan
Stacy Flanagan
Kenneth Foster
Cindy Franks
Laura Gamelson
Tiffany Garcia
Deisy Garcia
Grace Garcia
Leticia Garibay
Lorena Garibay
Marcuis Garr
Beverly Garrett
Tanks Garrot
Kadiri Garuba
Kacie Gauker
Meghan Geiger
Mariah Giroud
Gabe Goforth
Ryan Golding
Gomie Gonzalez
Joseph Gonzalez
Patty Goolsby
Tricia Gozzi
Marie Grafitti
Mary Gramkow
Nicolette Granville
Charleisha Green
Leslie Green
Donna Green
Ena and William Green
Renee Greene
Kathy Greico
Margaret Griffin
Greg Guarneri
Anne Gulick
Donna Gussert
Evelyn and David Hale
Kenneth Hanson
Victoria HardingJessica Hargraves
Kim Haring
Shavon Harris
Brenda and Maurice Hasan
Susan Hawk
Emily Heavner
Theresa Henderson
Diana Hobbs
Heather Hogee
Peter Hoster
David Hove
Sheila Hughes
Heidi Hummer
Arielle Hunkins
Danielle Hunt
Lenzi Hurd
Retna Hutagalung
Lucero Irizarry
Anthony Jackson
Bernard and Laura Jackson
Nathaline Jahnagile Williams
Richard Jaraba
Kerri Jarvis
Brittany Johnson
Jasmine Johnson
Shawn Johnson
The MENTOR Network | 3
6:30 PM
Dinner ReceptionDi R ti
8:00 PM
Ripple of Hope Awards Ceremony
Opening Remarks & Introduction of 2014 Ripple of Hope Award WinnersBruce NardellaPresident and Chief Executive Officer
18 | The MENTOR Network
Thank you to all those who submitted nominations for The MENTOR Network’s 10th annual Ripple of Hope Awards.
Please join us in congratulating all of the 2014 nominees:
Carmen Aceves
Filemon Aguilar
Jessica Ahl
Andrea Alanis
Steve Anderson
Maria and Nat AponteDominique Atkins
Brandie Atkins
Danielle Aubin
Juliet Auguste
Helen Baker
Staci Barber
Karley Bastin
Marites Bautista
Alfredo Bayaca
Lisa Beach
Megan BeckettMadlene Beldose
James Bell
Todd and Heidi Benkert
Courtney Bennett
Kathrine Bigley
Beverly Bingham
Rachel Birmingham
Christina Bobitch
LeAnn Bosma
Oren Boulner
Michelle Bourne
LaToya Bragg-Finch
Milton and Cindy Brekle
Debbie Brown
Kristy Bruna
Reginia Buchannan
Cody Buchanon
Marina Burris
Cherrie Camper
Jill Canatsey
Lysandra Cano
Rob Carolan
Rufino Castellano
Dana Castine
Gary Chiaravalli
Beth Chouinard
Karen Christiana
Naomi Clark
Torita Clark
Rosemarie Coffey
Sabrina Collins
Janice Comtois
Rebecca Connolly
Marnicia Conway
Daniel Cordor
Nelida Cordova
Maria Cornell
Cassandra Counts
Barbara Cramer
Kimberly Craus
Beth Crawford
Manthana “Annie” Crist
Patrick Cusick
Terra Dawson
Kristy Devan
Debra Donndelinger
Donna Dylla
Annie Enriquez
Monica Evans
James Farley
Randi Farr
Ashley Farris
Kathy Fevig-Sproul
Mindy Finnenam-Feehan
Stacy Flanagan
Kenneth Foster
Cindy Franks
Laura Gamelson
Tiffany Garcia
Deisy Garcia
Grace Garcia
Leticia Garibay
Lorena Garibay
Marcuis Garr
Beverly Garrett
Tanks Garrot
Kadiri Garuba
Kacie Gauker
Meghan Geiger
Mariah Giroud
Gabe Goforth
Ryan Golding
Gomie Gonzalez
Joseph Gonzalez
Patty Goolsby
Tricia Gozzi
Marie Grafitti
Mary Gramkow
Nicolette Granville
Charleisha Green
Leslie Green
Donna Green
Ena and William Green
Renee Greene
Kathy Greico
Margaret Griffin
Greg Guarneri
Anne Gulick
Donna Gussert
Evelyn and David Hale
Kenneth Hanson
Victoria HardingJessica Hargraves
Kim Haring
Shavon Harris
Brenda and Maurice Hasan
Susan Hawk
Emily Heavner
Theresa Henderson
Diana Hobbs
Heather Hogee
Peter Hoster
David Hove
Sheila Hughes
Heidi Hummer
Arielle Hunkins
Danielle Hunt
Lenzi Hurd
Retna Hutagalung
Lucero Irizarry
Anthony Jackson
Bernard and Laura Jackson
Nathaline Jahnagile Williams
Richard Jaraba
Kerri Jarvis
Brittany Johnson
Jasmine Johnson
Shawn Johnson
The MENTOR Network | 3
6:30 PM
Dinner ReceptionDi R ti
8:00 PM
Ripple of Hope Awards Ceremony
Opening Remarks & Introduction of 2014 Ripple of Hope Award WinnersBruce NardellaPresident and Chief Executive Officer
Presentation of AwardsDavid PetersenPresident, Redwood Operating Group
Jamison AshbyPresident and CEO, CareMeridian
Jeffrey CohenChief Information Officer
Edward MurphyExecutive Chairman
Bill DuffyPresident, NeuroRestorative
Gerry MorrisseyChief Quality Officer
Kathleen FedericoChief Human Resources Officer
Denis HollerChief Financial Officer
Dwight RobsonChief Public Strategy and Marketing Officer
Performance by Justin FulleyloveIndividual served by California MENTOR
9:30 PM
Dessert Reception
Presentation of AwardsDavid PetersenPresident, Redwood Operating Group
Jamison AshbyPresident and CEO, CareMeridian
Jeffrey CohenChief Information Officer
Edward MurphyExecutive Chairman
Bill DuffyPresident, NeuroRestorative
Gerry MorrisseyChief Quality Officer
Kathleen FedericoChief Human Resources Officer
Denis HollerChief Financial Officer
Dwight RobsonChief Public Strategy and Marketing Officer
Performance by Justin FulleyloveIndividual served by California MENTOR
9:30 PM
Dessert Reception
4 | The MENTOR Network
Many thanks to The MENTOR Network’s 2014 Network Nightingale,
Justin Fulleylove, for traveling from Fresno, California to honor our
Ripple of Hope Award winners with a song. Justin, who came to
California MENTOR’s Family Home Agency program three years ago at
the age of 19, enjoys regularly entertaining his fellow clients, staff and
Mentors at program events. All are inspired by his creativity and original
songwriting, which has become a powerful outlet for Justin to express his
thoughts to the world.
We thank Justin for sharing his original song, Keep on Going, with our
award winners tonight. His talent, passion and perseverance in the face
of adversity are an inspiration to us all.
The MENTOR Network | 17
She’s my other half, I love her
She’s not just my Mentor, she’s my other mother
and I really love her
She’s my best friend till the end
My mother Dana said, she’s in a better place
God I just wanna see her face
But that’s just how life is played
But I still just wish my mother could have stayed
Though the memories never fade I made a
new family
Never really thought they’d know how to handle me
I love ‘em to death cause they’re all I got left
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality
Gotta watch these demons that get the best of me
Things that come to reality
Lord please send me to victory
Yo, l’m about to spit this rap till I start running out
of breath
Yeah I love ‘em to death because they treat
me equal
They don’t treat me any differently than any other
people
I mean, just because I have a disability
I have the ability and the agility
to conquer anything
I’m trying to be the very best that I can be
And all I need is someone to believe in me
Live and learn is the key
You got to earn to receive
And I’m just trying to reach and achieve my goals
Nobody knows
The struggles and how hard it was for me to stay
outta trouble
Jump suit, handcuffs slapped down on my wrists
Shackles wrapped around my ankles
Walking through the jail halls staring at the brick
walls
That was just a phase in my life
I got past it and now I’m feeling fantastic
I overcame it, I made it out of the rain
My Mentor Dwayne
Always helped me get back on track
When I was suffering from emotional pain
He picked me up like a crane, I’ll never ever forget
their names
I swear l’ve changed for the better, and this world
is so cold
So I throw on a hoody sweater, but yo, slash that,
scratch it off
I wanna tell you all, keep your head up and
stand tall
‘Cause there are people out there that would kill to
see you fall
Yes yes y’all, yeah all you stay true
Cause there’s nothin’ in this world that you can’t do
Push push strive and just thank God that
you’re alive
If you have a dream like Martin Luther King
Then keep on keeping on
Till you reach it and you get it
And make those dreams
become reality
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality
Gotta watch these demons that get the best of me
Things that come to reality
Lord please send me to victory
own on my wris
an
aring at the brick
4 | The MENTOR Network
Many thanks to The MENTOR Network’s 2014 Network Nightingale,
Justin Fulleylove, for traveling from Fresno, California to honor our
Ripple of Hope Award winners with a song. Justin, who came to
California MENTOR’s Family Home Agency program three years ago at
the age of 19, enjoys regularly entertaining his fellow clients, staff and
Mentors at program events. All are inspired by his creativity and original
songwriting, which has become a powerful outlet for Justin to express his
thoughts to the world.
We thank Justin for sharing his original song, Keep on Going, with our
award winners tonight. His talent, passion and perseverance in the face
of adversity are an inspiration to us all.
The MENTOR Network | 17
She’s my other half, I love her
She’s not just my Mentor, she’s my other mother
and I really love her
She’s my best friend till the end
My mother Dana said, she’s in a better place
God I just wanna see her face
But that’s just how life is played
But I still just wish my mother could have stayed
Though the memories never fade I made a
new family
Never really thought they’d know how to handle me
I love ‘em to death cause they’re all I got left
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality
Gotta watch these demons that get the best of me
Things that come to reality
Lord please send me to victory
Yo, l’m about to spit this rap till I start running out
of breath
Yeah I love ‘em to death because they treat
me equal
They don’t treat me any differently than any other
people
I mean, just because I have a disability
I have the ability and the agility
to conquer anything
I’m trying to be the very best that I can be
And all I need is someone to believe in me
Live and learn is the key
You got to earn to receive
And I’m just trying to reach and achieve my goals
Nobody knows
The struggles and how hard it was for me to stay
outta trouble
Jump suit, handcuffs slapped down on my wrists
Shackles wrapped around my ankles
Walking through the jail halls staring at the brick
walls
That was just a phase in my life
I got past it and now I’m feeling fantastic
I overcame it, I made it out of the rain
My Mentor Dwayne
Always helped me get back on track
When I was suffering from emotional pain
He picked me up like a crane, I’ll never ever forget
their names
I swear l’ve changed for the better, and this world
is so cold
So I throw on a hoody sweater, but yo, slash that,
scratch it off
I wanna tell you all, keep your head up and
stand tall
‘Cause there are people out there that would kill to
see you fall
Yes yes y’all, yeah all you stay true
Cause there’s nothin’ in this world that you can’t do
Push push strive and just thank God that
you’re alive
If you have a dream like Martin Luther King
Then keep on keeping on
Till you reach it and you get it
And make those dreams
become reality
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality
Gotta watch these demons that get the best of me
Things that come to reality
Lord please send me to victory
own on my wris
an
aring at the brick
16 | The MENTOR Network
Yo, my heart used to be so cold
I was left out in the snow, with nowhere to go
Yo, just listen to me flow
I’m just doing what I was told
I was sent to the Mentors at 19 years old
stepped in the door with raggedy clothes
Weighed just about 90 pounds
I was looking down at the ground, holding down
a frown
Because I had to leave my hometown. I was
heading north bound.
To the NO Town…AKA Fresno
and all I could really do was just look out
the car window.
Reminiscin’ feeling like I’m missin’ something in
my life
Trying my best to forget about all the cold nights
On the block, in the days that I used to carry
a blade
Now I don’t have to do dirt to get paid
Cause now I’m going to day program everyday
Getting paid in a productive kind of way
That’s how it’s forever gonna stay
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality,
Gotta watch these demons that get the
best of me.
Things that come to reality,
Lord please send me to victory.
Yo, when my adopted mom passed away
that’s when my heart stung like a sting ray
and those memories just play…and replay…
and replay.
God I miss her every day!!
I was stressin’ God I learned my lesson
Cause I treated my mother bad, not knowin’
what I really had
I was sufferin’ and I was sad but my Mentor
helped me through it
even though I was on the edge
and feeling like I was about to lose it
Yep My Mentors helped me through it
Even though I was feelin’ sad
she cracked a joke and made me laugh
KEEP ON GOINGby Justin Fulleylove
An individual served by California MENTOR
The MENTOR Network | 5
The MENTOR Network’s Ripple of Hope Awards were created in 2005 to
recognize employees, Mentors and other independent contractors whose
compassion, energy and skill create ripples of hope in the lives of others.
Recognizing that the mission of The MENTOR Network could not be fulfilled
without partnerships, 2013 marked the first time that The MENTOR Network
has honored an external party with a Ripple of Hope Award.
The award’s name echoes words spoken by the late United States Senator
Robert F. Kennedy in his 1966 address at the University of Cape Town in South
Africa during the height of Apartheid. Award winners are nominated by their
peers and selected by The MENTOR Network in recognition of their unwavering
commitment to make a positive difference in the lives of others, whether in an
office, program or community setting. Recipients of our 10th annual Ripple of
Hope Awards are heroes among us. Their legacies of caring extend beyond
themselves to touch the lives of many.
014 Ripple of Hope Award Recipients
16 | The MENTOR Network
Yo, my heart used to be so cold
I was left out in the snow, with nowhere to go
Yo, just listen to me flow
I’m just doing what I was told
I was sent to the Mentors at 19 years old
stepped in the door with raggedy clothes
Weighed just about 90 pounds
I was looking down at the ground, holding down
a frown
Because I had to leave my hometown. I was
heading north bound.
To the NO Town…AKA Fresno
and all I could really do was just look out
the car window.
Reminiscin’ feeling like I’m missin’ something in
my life
Trying my best to forget about all the cold nights
On the block, in the days that I used to carry
a blade
Now I don’t have to do dirt to get paid
Cause now I’m going to day program everyday
Getting paid in a productive kind of way
That’s how it’s forever gonna stay
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality,
Gotta watch these demons that get the
best of me.
Things that come to reality,
Lord please send me to victory.
Yo, when my adopted mom passed away
that’s when my heart stung like a sting ray
and those memories just play…and replay…
and replay.
God I miss her every day!!
I was stressin’ God I learned my lesson
Cause I treated my mother bad, not knowin’
what I really had
I was sufferin’ and I was sad but my Mentor
helped me through it
even though I was on the edge
and feeling like I was about to lose it
Yep My Mentors helped me through it
Even though I was feelin’ sad
she cracked a joke and made me laugh
KEEP ON GOINGby Justin Fulleylove
An individual served by California MENTOR
The MENTOR Network | 5
The MENTOR Network’s Ripple of Hope Awards were created in 2005 to
recognize employees, Mentors and other independent contractors whose
compassion, energy and skill create ripples of hope in the lives of others.
Recognizing that the mission of The MENTOR Network could not be fulfilled
without partnerships, 2013 marked the first time that The MENTOR Network
has honored an external party with a Ripple of Hope Award.
The award’s name echoes words spoken by the late United States Senator
Robert F. Kennedy in his 1966 address at the University of Cape Town in South
Africa during the height of Apartheid. Award winners are nominated by their
peers and selected by The MENTOR Network in recognition of their unwavering
commitment to make a positive difference in the lives of others, whether in an
office, program or community setting. Recipients of our 10th annual Ripple of
Hope Awards are heroes among us. Their legacies of caring extend beyond
themselves to touch the lives of many.
Jessica Klimesh
Tim LaBrie
Constance and David West
U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders
U.S Congressman Jeff MillerVictoria Harding
Megan Beckett
Miracle Pygum
Maria and Nat Aponte
Dianne McGinn
2 f ts
.
Jessica Klimesh
Tim LaBrie
Constance and David West
U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders
U.S Congressman Jeff MillerVictoria Harding
Megan Beckett
Miracle Pygum
Maria and Nat Aponte
Dianne McGinn
2014 Ripple of Hope Award Recipients
.
6 | The MENTOR Network
JESSICA KLIMESHDirect Support Professional
REM Minnesota
The MENTOR Network | 15
6 | The MENTOR Network
JESSICA KLIMESHDirect Support Professional
REM Minnesota
The MENTOR Network | 15
After an eight-year career in restaurant management, Jessica Klimesh joined REM
Minnesota as a direct support professional in 2012 to pursue her passion to help
others. The women served at the group home where she works, along with her
fellow staff members, are glad she did, as they continue to learn from her.
“Jessica holds herself to the highest standard of personal and professional
accountability as she advocates for the individuals with whom she works,”
says Melanie Woltman, Program Director at REM Minnesota and Jessica’s
nominator. “She does so with a level of commitment and dedication, patience
and resilience, and passion and compassion that everyone around her
finds inspiring.”
Jessica’s focus on the individual and attention to detail have resulted in positive
outcomes time after time. She finds triggers that cause negative behaviors
through careful observation and journaling. Each person’s background,
schedule, habits and behaviors are observed and noted. There is no one-
size-fits-all approach in Jessica’s support. She looks for ways the individuals
we serve can manage their behaviors as opposed to others controlling them.
Whether it’s a change in diet, exercise schedule or the implementation of touch
therapy, Jessica finds an approach that successfully replaces the restraints and
outside controls most individuals had become accustomed to at an early age in
order to control their emotions and behaviors.
“These people did not choose to be this way; they have all experienced some
sort of trauma in their life,” says Jessica of the individuals she supports through
REM Minnesota. “I want them to be as high functioning as possible, so they can
work towards what makes them happy in life. I know I can help them get there.”
For the past seven years, Jessica has been working towards a dual degree in
community psychology and chemical dependency counseling, while raising five
children. She is slated to graduate at the end of this year and plans to continue
to focus on women’s mental health.
After an eight-year career in restaurant management, Jessica Klimesh joined REM
Minnesota as a direct support professional in 2012 to pursue her passion to help
others. The women served at the group home where she works, along with her
fellow staff members, are glad she did, as they continue to learn from her.
“Jessica holds herself to the highest standard of personal and professional
accountability as she advocates for the individuals with whom she works,”
says Melanie Woltman, Program Director at REM Minnesota and Jessica’s
nominator. “She does so with a level of commitment and dedication, patience
and resilience, and passion and compassion that everyone around her
finds inspiring.”
Jessica’s focus on the individual and attention to detail have resulted in positive
outcomes time after time. She finds triggers that cause negative behaviors
through careful observation and journaling. Each person’s background,
schedule, habits and behaviors are observed and noted. There is no one-
size-fits-all approach in Jessica’s support. She looks for ways the individuals
we serve can manage their behaviors as opposed to others controlling them.
Whether it’s a change in diet, exercise schedule or the implementation of touch
therapy, Jessica finds an approach that successfully replaces the restraints and
outside controls most individuals had become accustomed to at an early age in
order to control their emotions and behaviors.
“These people did not choose to be this way; they have all experienced some
sort of trauma in their life,” says Jessica of the individuals she supports through
REM Minnesota. “I want them to be as high functioning as possible, so they can
work towards what makes them happy in life. I know I can help them get there.”
For the past seven years, Jessica has been working towards a dual degree in
community psychology and chemical dependency counseling, while raising five
children. She is slated to graduate at the end of this year and plans to continue
to focus on women’s mental health.
14 | The MENTOR Network
DIANNE MCGINNProgram Director
MENTOR Maryland
Dianne McGinn joined the company in 1993 as a clinical coordinator for
Baltimore’s children’s program in Maryland—at that time, one of 10 MENTOR
states. She was hired to coordinate therapeutic foster care services for children
with emotional and behavioral challenges at about the same time the state
began deinstitutionalizing many children with medically complex conditions.
It was good timing. With the degree, license and experience the state required,
Dianne made the program’s first medically complex placement that year.
Since then, Dianne has spent her career forming and growing a program to best
serve Maryland’s youth who are medically fragile by taking the most vulnerable
children, sometimes dying children, and making it possible for them to live
safely in the community, with families who love them—and in many cases to be
permanently adopted by their foster parents.
“Dianne McGinn is an inspiration to us all,” wrote Patti Maguire, Vice President
of Operations, and Kathleen Smith, Quality Assurance Director, in Dianne’s
nomination. “She never loses hope or faith and continues to care for our most
vulnerable children with a passion and dedication that is unprecedented.”
Under Dianne’s management, the program evolved from being a place where
children could live out a short life expectancy in a loving home to one where
children beat the odds and live far longer than expected. Suddenly the program
not only needed more wheelchairs, but a fleet of accessible vans.
Now director of one of The Network’s largest medically complex programs
for children, Dianne oversees the care of children whose medical conditions
demand intensive, specialized care administered in the home by a skilled
Mentor, or foster parent. Her staff praise her leadership and admire her
dedication and skill. “She is willing to roll up her sleeves and get in there with
you,” says Darlene Dockins, Executive Director of MENTOR Maryland. “She is a
passionate advocate for the children, Mentors and her staff.”
“I am honored to do this work,” says Dianne. “We get to see children grow,
develop, get the best care and end up in a permanent setting—it’s a social
worker’s dream.”
The MENTOR Network | 7
TIM LABRIEMaintenance Specialist
CareMeridian
14 | The MENTOR Network
DIANNE MCGINNProgram Director
MENTOR Maryland
Dianne McGinn joined the company in 1993 as a clinical coordinator for
Baltimore’s children’s program in Maryland—at that time, one of 10 MENTOR
states. She was hired to coordinate therapeutic foster care services for children
with emotional and behavioral challenges at about the same time the state
began deinstitutionalizing many children with medically complex conditions.
It was good timing. With the degree, license and experience the state required,
Dianne made the program’s first medically complex placement that year.
Since then, Dianne has spent her career forming and growing a program to best
serve Maryland’s youth who are medically fragile by taking the most vulnerable
children, sometimes dying children, and making it possible for them to live
safely in the community, with families who love them—and in many cases to be
permanently adopted by their foster parents.
“Dianne McGinn is an inspiration to us all,” wrote Patti Maguire, Vice President
of Operations, and Kathleen Smith, Quality Assurance Director, in Dianne’s
nomination. “She never loses hope or faith and continues to care for our most
vulnerable children with a passion and dedication that is unprecedented.”
Under Dianne’s management, the program evolved from being a place where
children could live out a short life expectancy in a loving home to one where
children beat the odds and live far longer than expected. Suddenly the program
not only needed more wheelchairs, but a fleet of accessible vans.
Now director of one of The Network’s largest medically complex programs
for children, Dianne oversees the care of children whose medical conditions
demand intensive, specialized care administered in the home by a skilled
Mentor, or foster parent. Her staff praise her leadership and admire her
dedication and skill. “She is willing to roll up her sleeves and get in there with
you,” says Darlene Dockins, Executive Director of MENTOR Maryland. “She is a
passionate advocate for the children, Mentors and her staff.”
“I am honored to do this work,” says Dianne. “We get to see children grow,
develop, get the best care and end up in a permanent setting—it’s a social
worker’s dream.”
The MENTOR Network | 7
TIM LABRIEMaintenance Specialist
CareMeridian
As the maintenance specialist at CareMeridian’s Littleton, Colorado location,
Tim LaBrie touches the lives of patients, colleagues, their family members, and those in the community both directly and indirectly with his conscientious care for the building, its grounds and everyone in it.
“Tim and his nurturing effect on our patients and fellow staff remind us that our
ability to exude compassion, energy and skill, and have a positive impact on
our fellow human beings knows no specific job description,” wrote Kirk Davis,
Regional Director of Operations at CareMeridian, in a nomination composed of
accolades sent in by colleagues and individuals served by CareMeridian.
A self-starter, Tim went to work for a mining company at a young age and
quickly moved up the ranks. Twenty years later, when the company moved out
of the country, Tim chose to remain in Colorado with his wife and three children.
A couple of professions later, Tim joined CareMeridian in Littleton shortly after
the facility opened in 2012.
“He’s an integral force in maintaining our facility and touches lives wherever his
infectious smile is present,” says David Farmer, Administrator at CareMeridian
Littleton. “His resume will show an incredibly mechanically-inclined individual,
but to know him, he is a genuine human being in touch with the inner workings
of his fellow human beings.”
Tim is known for finding something in common with everyone he meets at
CareMeridian. He shares his love for cars, fishing skills, sense of humor and
good conversation with them, and searches for new ways to make patients
comfortable and happy so they may heal in the best environment possible.
Whether it’s the crafting of shower seat headrests for patients with quadriplegia
or a few words of understanding, Tim finds solutions. Patients with challenging
behaviors respond to Tim, even when they respond to no one else. A
staggering number of patient satisfaction surveys mention him by name.
“I don’t look at them as patients,” says Tim of the individuals who come
to CareMeridian. “I look at them as someone new and exciting to build a
relationship with. It’s funny how much you have in common with people.”
As the maintenance specialist at CareMeridian’s Littleton, Colorado location,
Tim LaBrie touches the lives of patients, colleagues, their family members, and those in the community both directly and indirectly with his conscientious care for the building, its grounds and everyone in it.
“Tim and his nurturing effect on our patients and fellow staff remind us that our
ability to exude compassion, energy and skill, and have a positive impact on
our fellow human beings knows no specific job description,” wrote Kirk Davis,
Regional Director of Operations at CareMeridian, in a nomination composed of
accolades sent in by colleagues and individuals served by CareMeridian.
A self-starter, Tim went to work for a mining company at a young age and
quickly moved up the ranks. Twenty years later, when the company moved out
of the country, Tim chose to remain in Colorado with his wife and three children.
A couple of professions later, Tim joined CareMeridian in Littleton shortly after
the facility opened in 2012.
“He’s an integral force in maintaining our facility and touches lives wherever his
infectious smile is present,” says David Farmer, Administrator at CareMeridian
Littleton. “His resume will show an incredibly mechanically-inclined individual,
but to know him, he is a genuine human being in touch with the inner workings
of his fellow human beings.”
Tim is known for finding something in common with everyone he meets at
CareMeridian. He shares his love for cars, fishing skills, sense of humor and
good conversation with them, and searches for new ways to make patients
comfortable and happy so they may heal in the best environment possible.
Whether it’s the crafting of shower seat headrests for patients with quadriplegia
or a few words of understanding, Tim finds solutions. Patients with challenging
behaviors respond to Tim, even when they respond to no one else. A
staggering number of patient satisfaction surveys mention him by name.
“I don’t look at them as patients,” says Tim of the individuals who come
to CareMeridian. “I look at them as someone new and exciting to build a
relationship with. It’s funny how much you have in common with people.”
8 | The MENTOR Network
CONSTANCE AND DAVID WESTMentors
MENTOR Maryland
Mentors since 2002 with MENTOR Maryland’s medically fragile children’s
program in Baltimore, Connie and David West have opened their home to some
of the most medically complex children served by The MENTOR Network.
In addition to the Wests’ three biological children, now all adults, Connie and
David have adopted three boys and currently support two additional young
children—all of whom live with complex medical conditions.
“Connie and David West are special,” says Dianne McGinn, Program Director
at MENTOR Maryland and the Wests’ nominator, in addition to being a fellow
award recipient. “They have big, open hearts for kids with extreme challenges
and a unique capacity to make it all look so easy!”
A former secretary at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Connie left the
job after her third son was born. She later began a 12-year career at a school
for children with mental and physical disabilities, attended by one of her sons,
who lives with intellectual disabilities and autism. That’s where she met the
first young boy Connie and David adopted. They’ve been welcoming children
ever since. Together, Connie and David, who is a letter carrier by day, lovingly
manage their growing household. They have become skilled caregivers,
experts at nonverbal communication, and advocates for every child that
enters their home.
“Kids deserve to be loved,” says Connie. “They didn’t ask to be born.
They didn’t ask to have what they have. Someone needs to love them.”
Despite the 24-hour care requirements in the West home, Connie and David
make it to football games and other community events, as do the kids—it’s
just on a rotating schedule. They make it work. “We have a good time,” says
Connie. “It comes down to doing what you like to do. This is what we like
to do. This is what we choose to do.”
The MENTOR Network | 13
MARIA AND NAT APONTEMentors
Pennsylvania MENTOR
8 | The MENTOR Network
CONSTANCE AND DAVID WESTMentors
MENTOR Maryland
Mentors since 2002 with MENTOR Maryland’s medically fragile children’s
program in Baltimore, Connie and David West have opened their home to some
of the most medically complex children served by The MENTOR Network.
In addition to the Wests’ three biological children, now all adults, Connie and
David have adopted three boys and currently support two additional young
children—all of whom live with complex medical conditions.
“Connie and David West are special,” says Dianne McGinn, Program Director
at MENTOR Maryland and the Wests’ nominator, in addition to being a fellow
award recipient. “They have big, open hearts for kids with extreme challenges
and a unique capacity to make it all look so easy!”
A former secretary at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Connie left the
job after her third son was born. She later began a 12-year career at a school
for children with mental and physical disabilities, attended by one of her sons,
who lives with intellectual disabilities and autism. That’s where she met the
first young boy Connie and David adopted. They’ve been welcoming children
ever since. Together, Connie and David, who is a letter carrier by day, lovingly
manage their growing household. They have become skilled caregivers,
experts at nonverbal communication, and advocates for every child that
enters their home.
“Kids deserve to be loved,” says Connie. “They didn’t ask to be born.
They didn’t ask to have what they have. Someone needs to love them.”
Despite the 24-hour care requirements in the West home, Connie and David
make it to football games and other community events, as do the kids—it’s
just on a rotating schedule. They make it work. “We have a good time,” says
Connie. “It comes down to doing what you like to do. This is what we like
to do. This is what we choose to do.”
The MENTOR Network | 13
MARIA AND NAT APONTEMentors
Pennsylvania MENTOR
It’s not unusual for Maria and Nat Aponte to hear from the children they’ve supported decades after they move out of the Aponte home. Updates and thankyou calls, notes and Facebook posts express gratitude for Maria and Nat’s support, love and good advice.
“Since 1997 when they first began their work with our children, Maria and Nat
have welcomed more than 75 children into their home and treated each one
as part of the family, with kindness and respect,” says Amy Parola, Program
Director at Pennsylvania MENTOR and the Apontes’ nominator.
Many of the youth Maria and Nat have welcomed into their home have come
with a history of trauma. Many have been institutionalized or jumped from
foster home to foster home. Maria and Nat work through behaviors, collaborate
with schools, and help the children in their care stay focused on goals so they
are able to transition to independence, a lower level of care, or back to their
biological families.
“We just love children,” says Maria.
“We give the kids what they need, we treat them like our own, and we treat
them with respect,” adds Nat. “You have to listen to them, teach them and talk
with them.”
In addition to four biological children, Maria and Nat have also adopted three
children, all now adults. To all the children who have come into their home, Nat
and Maria stress the importance of a good education and responsibility. “If you
don’t have a good education, you can’t get a good job; and if you’re not a good
person, you’re not going to make it,” explains Nat.
As advocates for children, Nat and Maria offer peer support to fellow Mentors
and are always willing to support the program in any way they can. “Everything
Maria and Nat do in their home exemplifies a commitment to children and our
mission,” says Amy.
It’s not unusual for Maria and Nat Aponte to hear from the children they’ve supported decades after they move out of the Aponte home. Updates and thankyou calls, notes and Facebook posts express gratitude for Maria and Nat’s support, love and good advice.
“Since 1997 when they first began their work with our children, Maria and Nat
have welcomed more than 75 children into their home and treated each one
as part of the family, with kindness and respect,” says Amy Parola, Program
Director at Pennsylvania MENTOR and the Apontes’ nominator.
Many of the youth Maria and Nat have welcomed into their home have come
with a history of trauma. Many have been institutionalized or jumped from
foster home to foster home. Maria and Nat work through behaviors, collaborate
with schools, and help the children in their care stay focused on goals so they
are able to transition to independence, a lower level of care, or back to their
biological families.
“We just love children,” says Maria.
“We give the kids what they need, we treat them like our own, and we treat
them with respect,” adds Nat. “You have to listen to them, teach them and talk
with them.”
In addition to four biological children, Maria and Nat have also adopted three
children, all now adults. To all the children who have come into their home, Nat
and Maria stress the importance of a good education and responsibility. “If you
don’t have a good education, you can’t get a good job; and if you’re not a good
person, you’re not going to make it,” explains Nat.
As advocates for children, Nat and Maria offer peer support to fellow Mentors
and are always willing to support the program in any way they can. “Everything
Maria and Nat do in their home exemplifies a commitment to children and our
mission,” says Amy.
12 | The MENTOR Network
MIRACLE PYGUMCase Manager
New Jersey MENTOR
As a case worker at New Jersey MENTOR, Miracle Pygum is well prepared for
the role. Miracle earned her degree in law and justice, with a minor in sociology,
and possesses a passion and purpose driven by her experience as a teenager in
foster care.
“It is Miracle’s personal mission to reach those who are ‘walking in familiar
shoes’ and to educate people about how trauma can change a person, and
how relationships and good treatment can alter their lives for the better and
forever,” says Teresa Havers, Area Director at New Jersey MENTOR and one of
Miracle’s nominators.
At the age of 14, Miracle was removed from her biological family. Not
understanding what was going on in her life, she started spiraling out of control.
It took a therapeutic foster home and case worker with high expectations to help
her change her life. As a result, Miracle is convinced there can be more success
stories than heartbreaking ones about youth in foster care. She points to herself
as proof. Miracle’s case worker recognized early on Miracle’s passion for law
and encouraged her to pursue it. Miracle credits that support, and a desire to
help others, for her success and continued determination to forge her own path
and make a difference in the lives of youth at risk.
“I love the fact that I am part of a team that has the ability to change lives and
advocate for this misunderstood population,” says Miracle. “I see the difference
our work makes in the lives of the outstanding youth in our program and I’m
proud of that.”
Miracle’s positive impact on individuals served in the program and the energy
she brings to her team have been a great source of motivation for everyone she
works with—kids, Mentors and colleagues alike. She was nominated not only
by her supervisor, but also by Danielle Riley, a Community Outreach Worker at
New Jersey MENTOR, and Sheray Morrison, a Family Service Specialist at the
New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
“I’m striving to change the world!” says Miracle. “I wake up every day and say
‘It’s a new day, let’s go, who’s next.’”
The MENTOR Network | 9
CHAIRMAN BERNIE SANDERS (I-VT)U.S. Senate Veterans’
Affairs Committee
CHAIRMAN JEFF MILLER (R-FL)Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the
U.S. House of Representatives
12 | The MENTOR Network
MIRACLE PYGUMCase Manager
New Jersey MENTOR
As a case worker at New Jersey MENTOR, Miracle Pygum is well prepared for
the role. Miracle earned her degree in law and justice, with a minor in sociology,
and possesses a passion and purpose driven by her experience as a teenager in
foster care.
“It is Miracle’s personal mission to reach those who are ‘walking in familiar
shoes’ and to educate people about how trauma can change a person, and
how relationships and good treatment can alter their lives for the better and
forever,” says Teresa Havers, Area Director at New Jersey MENTOR and one of
Miracle’s nominators.
At the age of 14, Miracle was removed from her biological family. Not
understanding what was going on in her life, she started spiraling out of control.
It took a therapeutic foster home and case worker with high expectations to help
her change her life. As a result, Miracle is convinced there can be more success
stories than heartbreaking ones about youth in foster care. She points to herself
as proof. Miracle’s case worker recognized early on Miracle’s passion for law
and encouraged her to pursue it. Miracle credits that support, and a desire to
help others, for her success and continued determination to forge her own path
and make a difference in the lives of youth at risk.
“I love the fact that I am part of a team that has the ability to change lives and
advocate for this misunderstood population,” says Miracle. “I see the difference
our work makes in the lives of the outstanding youth in our program and I’m
proud of that.”
Miracle’s positive impact on individuals served in the program and the energy
she brings to her team have been a great source of motivation for everyone she
works with—kids, Mentors and colleagues alike. She was nominated not only
by her supervisor, but also by Danielle Riley, a Community Outreach Worker at
New Jersey MENTOR, and Sheray Morrison, a Family Service Specialist at the
New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
“I’m striving to change the world!” says Miracle. “I wake up every day and say
‘It’s a new day, let’s go, who’s next.’”
The MENTOR Network | 9
CHAIRMAN BERNIE SANDERS (I-VT)U.S. Senate Veterans’
Affairs Committee
CHAIRMAN JEFF MILLER (R-FL)Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the
U.S. House of Representatives
Earlier this year, Veterans with traumatic brain injury were at risk of losing their
placement in NeuroRestorative’s National Capitol program and other programs
across the country if the Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans wasn’t
renewed. Established in 2008, the pilot program proved successful in providing
specialized, post-acute brain injury rehabilitation in community settings to
Veterans with traumatic brain injuries. Veterans were learning critical life skills
and returning to their homes and communities, but numerous interests covering
a wide array of services were vying for its potential funding source—a place in a
reform package geared towards the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Chairmen of the Veterans' affairs committees in their respective houses, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Congressman Jeff Miller (R-FL), were leading the
reform effort along with Ranking Members Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) and
Congressman Mike Michaud (D-ME), and fellow committee members. They
sifted through the innumerable demands to bring to the President a reform
package that would be embraced by their colleagues in both political parties, and
more importantly, one that would best serve our Veterans. The chairmen decided
the Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans did just that and included it in the
reform bill, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives on July 30, 2014
and the U.S. Senate the next day. Opposition numbered in the single digits.
It was an overwhelming victory for our nation’s Veterans.
“The MENTOR Network, NeuroRestorative, participants and families appreciated the chance to work with the Chairmen, committee members and thier staff insecuring a place for the Assisted Living Pilot Program's renewal," says Ned Murphy,Executive Chairman of The MENTOR Network. "This was a model of effectivepartnering accross interests and sectors. It underscored the reality of our system ofgovernment: There is no such thing as a solo effort."
Earlier this year, Veterans with traumatic brain injury were at risk of losing their
placement in NeuroRestorative’s National Capitol program and other programs
across the country if the Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans wasn’t
renewed. Established in 2008, the pilot program proved successful in providing
specialized, post-acute brain injury rehabilitation in community settings to
Veterans with traumatic brain injuries. Veterans were learning critical life skills
and returning to their homes and communities, but numerous interests covering
a wide array of services were vying for its potential funding source—a place in a
reform package geared towards the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Chairmen of the Veterans' affairs committees in their respective houses, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Congressman Jeff Miller (R-FL), were leading the
reform effort along with Ranking Members Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) and
Congressman Mike Michaud (D-ME), and fellow committee members. They
sifted through the innumerable demands to bring to the President a reform
package that would be embraced by their colleagues in both political parties, and
more importantly, one that would best serve our Veterans. The chairmen decided
the Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans did just that and included it in the
reform bill, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives on July 30, 2014
and the U.S. Senate the next day. Opposition numbered in the single digits.
It was an overwhelming victory for our nation’s Veterans.
“The MENTOR Network, NeuroRestorative, participants and families appreciated the chance to work with the Chairmen, committee members and thier staff insecuring a place for the Assisted Living Pilot Program's renewal," says Ned Murphy,Executive Chairman of The MENTOR Network. "This was a model of effectivepartnering accross interests and sectors. It underscored the reality of our system ofgovernment: There is no such thing as a solo effort."
10 | The MENTOR Network
VICTORIA HARDINGVice President of Development
NeuroRestorative
The MENTOR Network | 11
MEGAN BECKETTDirect Support Professional
REM Iowa
10 | The MENTOR Network
VICTORIA HARDINGVice President of Development
NeuroRestorative
The MENTOR Network | 11
MEGAN BECKETTDirect Support Professional
REM Iowa
Victoria (Tori) Harding provides specialized program development for people
with brain and spinal cord injuries as vice president of development at
NeuroRestorative. A speech-language pathologist and certified brain injury
trainer, Tori has also worn the hats of clinician and educator. Combined
with her leadership roles, she’s worked in almost every aspect of brain injury
rehabilitation—a fact that is evident in everything she does.
“Working with Tori and watching her work is a gift,” says Jody Crowley, Regional
Vice President at NeuroRestorative and Tori’s nominator. “Her genuine attitude,
superwoman work ethic, business savvy, compassion and dedication are
something we all strive for. Some people believe in what they do and work hard;
Tori is creating a legacy.”
Over Tori’s tenure with NeuroRestorative, she has been a primary contributor to
the growth of services. She’s played a pivotal role in developing programs in new
states, enhancing existing programs, and integrating new opportunities, including
the expansion of opportunities for Veterans with traumatic brain injuries.
“We help people set goals and reach those goals so they can improve their
skill sets in the community and safely get back to independence,” says Tori of
NeuroRestorative’s community-based programs. “Sometimes you have to stop
basketball therapy and just play basketball in a league.”
Tori’s focus these days is on the research and best practices that support
individuals getting to that point. She is driven by the belief that communication is
the key to community and motivated by the individuals NeuroRestorative serves
and their families, whom she admires greatly for their strength and advocacy onbehalf of their loved ones.
“We get the honor of riding shotgun with them on this journey,” says Tori of
working with the individuals and families NeuroRestorative serves. “We’re
planting hope in them.”
Victoria (Tori) Harding provides specialized program development for people
with brain and spinal cord injuries as vice president of development at
NeuroRestorative. A speech-language pathologist and certified brain injury
trainer, Tori has also worn the hats of clinician and educator. Combined
with her leadership roles, she’s worked in almost every aspect of brain injury
rehabilitation—a fact that is evident in everything she does.
“Working with Tori and watching her work is a gift,” says Jody Crowley, Regional
Vice President at NeuroRestorative and Tori’s nominator. “Her genuine attitude,
superwoman work ethic, business savvy, compassion and dedication are
something we all strive for. Some people believe in what they do and work hard;
Tori is creating a legacy.”
Over Tori’s tenure with NeuroRestorative, she has been a primary contributor to
the growth of services. She’s played a pivotal role in developing programs in new
states, enhancing existing programs, and integrating new opportunities, including
the expansion of opportunities for Veterans with traumatic brain injuries.
“We help people set goals and reach those goals so they can improve their
skill sets in the community and safely get back to independence,” says Tori of
NeuroRestorative’s community-based programs. “Sometimes you have to stop
basketball therapy and just play basketball in a league.”
Tori’s focus these days is on the research and best practices that support
individuals getting to that point. She is driven by the belief that communication is
the key to community and motivated by the individuals NeuroRestorative serves
and their families, whom she admires greatly for their strength and advocacy onbehalf of their loved ones.
“We get the honor of riding shotgun with them on this journey,” says Tori of
working with the individuals and families NeuroRestorative serves. “We’re
planting hope in them.”
Megan Beckett takes community outings to a whole new level. The individuals she supports through REM Iowa’s Prevocational and Habilitation Services program
in Hiawatha enjoy all-day trips to nature centers and zoos, local baseball
games and more, despite the high level of support they require and sometimes
aggressive behavior.
“I truly love these guys and want to do things that make them happy,” says
Megan. “I don’t worry about behavior outbursts when we are out in the
community. If it happens, I know we can regroup.”
Her colleagues admire her ability to gain the trust of the individuals she serves,
helping them to live life to the fullest in the community. “Megan consistently
demonstrates warmth and compassion with the individuals she serves and
treats each individual with respect,” says Shay Anderson, Program Director at
REM Iowa and Megan’s nominator. “She does not see their disabilities, only
their capabilities and forms quality relationships because of it.”
Joining REM four years ago was Megan’s first introduction to direct support and
working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but her
childhood prepared her well for the field of human services. Megan is one of 10
children, two of whom are adopted. Her childhood home was always open to
relatives, friends and foster children thanks to her mother’s love and compassion
for others. Music, another passion and guiding force in her life, is also
something she shares with program participants and the broader community,
her family, and as a member of her church choir. And it’s the joyful music in her
life that she often falls back on to soothe and bring happiness to the individuals
she supports.
In addition to her work with REM Iowa, Megan supports youth at risk with
another area provider. “I just love people,” says Megan. “I’ll take you for who
you are and we can go from there.”
Megan Beckett takes community outings to a whole new level. The individuals she supports through REM Iowa’s Prevocational and Habilitation Services program
in Hiawatha enjoy all-day trips to nature centers and zoos, local baseball
games and more, despite the high level of support they require and sometimes
aggressive behavior.
“I truly love these guys and want to do things that make them happy,” says
Megan. “I don’t worry about behavior outbursts when we are out in the
community. If it happens, I know we can regroup.”
Her colleagues admire her ability to gain the trust of the individuals she serves,
helping them to live life to the fullest in the community. “Megan consistently
demonstrates warmth and compassion with the individuals she serves and
treats each individual with respect,” says Shay Anderson, Program Director at
REM Iowa and Megan’s nominator. “She does not see their disabilities, only
their capabilities and forms quality relationships because of it.”
Joining REM four years ago was Megan’s first introduction to direct support and
working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but her
childhood prepared her well for the field of human services. Megan is one of 10
children, two of whom are adopted. Her childhood home was always open to
relatives, friends and foster children thanks to her mother’s love and compassion
for others. Music, another passion and guiding force in her life, is also
something she shares with program participants and the broader community,
her family, and as a member of her church choir. And it’s the joyful music in her
life that she often falls back on to soothe and bring happiness to the individuals
she supports.
In addition to her work with REM Iowa, Megan supports youth at risk with
another area provider. “I just love people,” says Megan. “I’ll take you for who
you are and we can go from there.”
10 | The MENTOR Network
VICTORIA HARDINGVice President of Development
NeuroRestorative
The MENTOR Network | 11
MEGAN BECKETTDirect Support Professional
REM Iowa
10 | The MENTOR Network
VICTORIA HARDINGVice President of Development
NeuroRestorative
The MENTOR Network | 11
MEGAN BECKETTDirect Support Professional
REM Iowa
Victoria (Tori) Harding provides specialized program development for people
with brain and spinal cord injuries as vice president of development at
NeuroRestorative. A speech-language pathologist and certified brain injury
trainer, Tori has also worn the hats of clinician and educator. Combined
with her leadership roles, she’s worked in almost every aspect of brain injury
rehabilitation—a fact that is evident in everything she does.
“Working with Tori and watching her work is a gift,” says Jody Crowley, Regional
Vice President at NeuroRestorative and Tori’s nominator. “Her genuine attitude,
superwoman work ethic, business savvy, compassion and dedication are
something we all strive for. Some people believe in what they do and work hard;
Tori is creating a legacy.”
Over Tori’s tenure with NeuroRestorative, she has been a primary contributor to
the growth of services. She’s played a pivotal role in developing programs in new
states, enhancing existing programs, and integrating new opportunities, including
the expansion of opportunities for Veterans with traumatic brain injuries.
“We help people set goals and reach those goals so they can improve their
skill sets in the community and safely get back to independence,” says Tori of
NeuroRestorative’s community-based programs. “Sometimes you have to stop
basketball therapy and just play basketball in a league.”
Tori’s focus these days is on the research and best practices that support
individuals getting to that point. She is driven by the belief that communication is
the key to community and motivated by the individuals NeuroRestorative serves
and their families, whom she admires greatly for their strength and advocacy onbehalf of their loved ones.
“We get the honor of riding shotgun with them on this journey,” says Tori of
working with the individuals and families NeuroRestorative serves. “We’re
planting hope in them.”
Victoria (Tori) Harding provides specialized program development for people
with brain and spinal cord injuries as vice president of development at
NeuroRestorative. A speech-language pathologist and certified brain injury
trainer, Tori has also worn the hats of clinician and educator. Combined
with her leadership roles, she’s worked in almost every aspect of brain injury
rehabilitation—a fact that is evident in everything she does.
“Working with Tori and watching her work is a gift,” says Jody Crowley, Regional
Vice President at NeuroRestorative and Tori’s nominator. “Her genuine attitude,
superwoman work ethic, business savvy, compassion and dedication are
something we all strive for. Some people believe in what they do and work hard;
Tori is creating a legacy.”
Over Tori’s tenure with NeuroRestorative, she has been a primary contributor to
the growth of services. She’s played a pivotal role in developing programs in new
states, enhancing existing programs, and integrating new opportunities, including
the expansion of opportunities for Veterans with traumatic brain injuries.
“We help people set goals and reach those goals so they can improve their
skill sets in the community and safely get back to independence,” says Tori of
NeuroRestorative’s community-based programs. “Sometimes you have to stop
basketball therapy and just play basketball in a league.”
Tori’s focus these days is on the research and best practices that support
individuals getting to that point. She is driven by the belief that communication is
the key to community and motivated by the individuals NeuroRestorative serves
and their families, whom she admires greatly for their strength and advocacy onbehalf of their loved ones.
“We get the honor of riding shotgun with them on this journey,” says Tori of
working with the individuals and families NeuroRestorative serves. “We’re
planting hope in them.”
Megan Beckett takes community outings to a whole new level. The individuals she supports through REM Iowa’s Prevocational and Habilitation Services program
in Hiawatha enjoy all-day trips to nature centers and zoos, local baseball
games and more, despite the high level of support they require and sometimes
aggressive behavior.
“I truly love these guys and want to do things that make them happy,” says
Megan. “I don’t worry about behavior outbursts when we are out in the
community. If it happens, I know we can regroup.”
Her colleagues admire her ability to gain the trust of the individuals she serves,
helping them to live life to the fullest in the community. “Megan consistently
demonstrates warmth and compassion with the individuals she serves and
treats each individual with respect,” says Shay Anderson, Program Director at
REM Iowa and Megan’s nominator. “She does not see their disabilities, only
their capabilities and forms quality relationships because of it.”
Joining REM four years ago was Megan’s first introduction to direct support and
working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but her
childhood prepared her well for the field of human services. Megan is one of 10
children, two of whom are adopted. Her childhood home was always open to
relatives, friends and foster children thanks to her mother’s love and compassion
for others. Music, another passion and guiding force in her life, is also
something she shares with program participants and the broader community,
her family, and as a member of her church choir. And it’s the joyful music in her
life that she often falls back on to soothe and bring happiness to the individuals
she supports.
In addition to her work with REM Iowa, Megan supports youth at risk with
another area provider. “I just love people,” says Megan. “I’ll take you for who
you are and we can go from there.”
Megan Beckett takes community outings to a whole new level. The individuals she supports through REM Iowa’s Prevocational and Habilitation Services program
in Hiawatha enjoy all-day trips to nature centers and zoos, local baseball
games and more, despite the high level of support they require and sometimes
aggressive behavior.
“I truly love these guys and want to do things that make them happy,” says
Megan. “I don’t worry about behavior outbursts when we are out in the
community. If it happens, I know we can regroup.”
Her colleagues admire her ability to gain the trust of the individuals she serves,
helping them to live life to the fullest in the community. “Megan consistently
demonstrates warmth and compassion with the individuals she serves and
treats each individual with respect,” says Shay Anderson, Program Director at
REM Iowa and Megan’s nominator. “She does not see their disabilities, only
their capabilities and forms quality relationships because of it.”
Joining REM four years ago was Megan’s first introduction to direct support and
working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but her
childhood prepared her well for the field of human services. Megan is one of 10
children, two of whom are adopted. Her childhood home was always open to
relatives, friends and foster children thanks to her mother’s love and compassion
for others. Music, another passion and guiding force in her life, is also
something she shares with program participants and the broader community,
her family, and as a member of her church choir. And it’s the joyful music in her
life that she often falls back on to soothe and bring happiness to the individuals
she supports.
In addition to her work with REM Iowa, Megan supports youth at risk with
another area provider. “I just love people,” says Megan. “I’ll take you for who
you are and we can go from there.”
12 | The MENTOR Network
MIRACLE PYGUMCase Manager
New Jersey MENTOR
As a case worker at New Jersey MENTOR, Miracle Pygum is well prepared for
the role. Miracle earned her degree in law and justice, with a minor in sociology,
and possesses a passion and purpose driven by her experience as a teenager in
foster care.
“It is Miracle’s personal mission to reach those who are ‘walking in familiar
shoes’ and to educate people about how trauma can change a person, and
how relationships and good treatment can alter their lives for the better and
forever,” says Teresa Havers, Area Director at New Jersey MENTOR and one of
Miracle’s nominators.
At the age of 14, Miracle was removed from her biological family. Not
understanding what was going on in her life, she started spiraling out of control.
It took a therapeutic foster home and case worker with high expectations to help
her change her life. As a result, Miracle is convinced there can be more success
stories than heartbreaking ones about youth in foster care. She points to herself
as proof. Miracle’s case worker recognized early on Miracle’s passion for law
and encouraged her to pursue it. Miracle credits that support, and a desire to
help others, for her success and continued determination to forge her own path
and make a difference in the lives of youth at risk.
“I love the fact that I am part of a team that has the ability to change lives and
advocate for this misunderstood population,” says Miracle. “I see the difference
our work makes in the lives of the outstanding youth in our program and I’m
proud of that.”
Miracle’s positive impact on individuals served in the program and the energy
she brings to her team have been a great source of motivation for everyone she
works with—kids, Mentors and colleagues alike. She was nominated not only
by her supervisor, but also by Danielle Riley, a Community Outreach Worker at
New Jersey MENTOR, and Sheray Morrison, a Family Service Specialist at the
New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
“I’m striving to change the world!” says Miracle. “I wake up every day and say
‘It’s a new day, let’s go, who’s next.’”
The MENTOR Network | 9
CHAIRMAN BERNIE SANDERS (I-VT)U.S. Senate Veterans’
Affairs Committee
CHAIRMAN JEFF MILLER (R-FL)Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the
U.S. House of Representatives
12 | The MENTOR Network
MIRACLE PYGUMCase Manager
New Jersey MENTOR
As a case worker at New Jersey MENTOR, Miracle Pygum is well prepared for
the role. Miracle earned her degree in law and justice, with a minor in sociology,
and possesses a passion and purpose driven by her experience as a teenager in
foster care.
“It is Miracle’s personal mission to reach those who are ‘walking in familiar
shoes’ and to educate people about how trauma can change a person, and
how relationships and good treatment can alter their lives for the better and
forever,” says Teresa Havers, Area Director at New Jersey MENTOR and one of
Miracle’s nominators.
At the age of 14, Miracle was removed from her biological family. Not
understanding what was going on in her life, she started spiraling out of control.
It took a therapeutic foster home and case worker with high expectations to help
her change her life. As a result, Miracle is convinced there can be more success
stories than heartbreaking ones about youth in foster care. She points to herself
as proof. Miracle’s case worker recognized early on Miracle’s passion for law
and encouraged her to pursue it. Miracle credits that support, and a desire to
help others, for her success and continued determination to forge her own path
and make a difference in the lives of youth at risk.
“I love the fact that I am part of a team that has the ability to change lives and
advocate for this misunderstood population,” says Miracle. “I see the difference
our work makes in the lives of the outstanding youth in our program and I’m
proud of that.”
Miracle’s positive impact on individuals served in the program and the energy
she brings to her team have been a great source of motivation for everyone she
works with—kids, Mentors and colleagues alike. She was nominated not only
by her supervisor, but also by Danielle Riley, a Community Outreach Worker at
New Jersey MENTOR, and Sheray Morrison, a Family Service Specialist at the
New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
“I’m striving to change the world!” says Miracle. “I wake up every day and say
‘It’s a new day, let’s go, who’s next.’”
The MENTOR Network | 9
CHAIRMAN BERNIE SANDERS (I-VT)U.S. Senate Veterans’
Affairs Committee
CHAIRMAN JEFF MILLER (R-FL)Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the
U.S. House of Representatives
Earlier this year, Veterans with traumatic brain injury were at risk of losing their
placement in NeuroRestorative’s National Capitol program and other programs
across the country if the Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans wasn’t
renewed. Established in 2008, the pilot program proved successful in providing
specialized, post-acute brain injury rehabilitation in community settings to
Veterans with traumatic brain injuries. Veterans were learning critical life skills
and returning to their homes and communities, but numerous interests covering
a wide array of services were vying for its potential funding source—a place in a
reform package geared towards the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Chairmen of the Veterans' affairs committees in their respective houses, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Congressman Jeff Miller (R-FL), were leading the
reform effort along with Ranking Members Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) and
Congressman Mike Michaud (D-ME), and fellow committee members. They
sifted through the innumerable demands to bring to the President a reform
package that would be embraced by their colleagues in both political parties, and
more importantly, one that would best serve our Veterans. The chairmen decided
the Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans did just that and included it in the
reform bill, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives on July 30, 2014
and the U.S. Senate the next day. Opposition numbered in the single digits.
It was an overwhelming victory for our nation’s Veterans.
“The MENTOR Network, NeuroRestorative, participants and families appreciated the chance to work with the Chairmen, committee members and thier staff insecuring a place for the Assisted Living Pilot Program's renewal," says Ned Murphy,Executive Chairman of The MENTOR Network. "This was a model of effectivepartnering accross interests and sectors. It underscored the reality of our system ofgovernment: There is no such thing as a solo effort."
Earlier this year, Veterans with traumatic brain injury were at risk of losing their
placement in NeuroRestorative’s National Capitol program and other programs
across the country if the Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans wasn’t
renewed. Established in 2008, the pilot program proved successful in providing
specialized, post-acute brain injury rehabilitation in community settings to
Veterans with traumatic brain injuries. Veterans were learning critical life skills
and returning to their homes and communities, but numerous interests covering
a wide array of services were vying for its potential funding source—a place in a
reform package geared towards the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Chairmen of the Veterans' affairs committees in their respective houses, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Congressman Jeff Miller (R-FL), were leading the
reform effort along with Ranking Members Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) and
Congressman Mike Michaud (D-ME), and fellow committee members. They
sifted through the innumerable demands to bring to the President a reform
package that would be embraced by their colleagues in both political parties, and
more importantly, one that would best serve our Veterans. The chairmen decided
the Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans did just that and included it in the
reform bill, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives on July 30, 2014
and the U.S. Senate the next day. Opposition numbered in the single digits.
It was an overwhelming victory for our nation’s Veterans.
“The MENTOR Network, NeuroRestorative, participants and families appreciated the chance to work with the Chairmen, committee members and thier staff insecuring a place for the Assisted Living Pilot Program's renewal," says Ned Murphy,Executive Chairman of The MENTOR Network. "This was a model of effectivepartnering accross interests and sectors. It underscored the reality of our system ofgovernment: There is no such thing as a solo effort."
8 | The MENTOR Network
CONSTANCE AND DAVID WESTMentors
MENTOR Maryland
Mentors since 2002 with MENTOR Maryland’s medically fragile children’s
program in Baltimore, Connie and David West have opened their home to some
of the most medically complex children served by The MENTOR Network.
In addition to the Wests’ three biological children, now all adults, Connie and
David have adopted three boys and currently support two additional young
children—all of whom live with complex medical conditions.
“Connie and David West are special,” says Dianne McGinn, Program Director
at MENTOR Maryland and the Wests’ nominator, in addition to being a fellow
award recipient. “They have big, open hearts for kids with extreme challenges
and a unique capacity to make it all look so easy!”
A former secretary at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Connie left the
job after her third son was born. She later began a 12-year career at a school
for children with mental and physical disabilities, attended by one of her sons,
who lives with intellectual disabilities and autism. That’s where she met the
first young boy Connie and David adopted. They’ve been welcoming children
ever since. Together, Connie and David, who is a letter carrier by day, lovingly
manage their growing household. They have become skilled caregivers,
experts at nonverbal communication, and advocates for every child that
enters their home.
“Kids deserve to be loved,” says Connie. “They didn’t ask to be born.
They didn’t ask to have what they have. Someone needs to love them.”
Despite the 24-hour care requirements in the West home, Connie and David
make it to football games and other community events, as do the kids—it’s
just on a rotating schedule. They make it work. “We have a good time,” says
Connie. “It comes down to doing what you like to do. This is what we like
to do. This is what we choose to do.”
The MENTOR Network | 13
MARIA AND NAT APONTEMentors
Pennsylvania MENTOR
8 | The MENTOR Network
CONSTANCE AND DAVID WESTMentors
MENTOR Maryland
Mentors since 2002 with MENTOR Maryland’s medically fragile children’s
program in Baltimore, Connie and David West have opened their home to some
of the most medically complex children served by The MENTOR Network.
In addition to the Wests’ three biological children, now all adults, Connie and
David have adopted three boys and currently support two additional young
children—all of whom live with complex medical conditions.
“Connie and David West are special,” says Dianne McGinn, Program Director
at MENTOR Maryland and the Wests’ nominator, in addition to being a fellow
award recipient. “They have big, open hearts for kids with extreme challenges
and a unique capacity to make it all look so easy!”
A former secretary at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Connie left the
job after her third son was born. She later began a 12-year career at a school
for children with mental and physical disabilities, attended by one of her sons,
who lives with intellectual disabilities and autism. That’s where she met the
first young boy Connie and David adopted. They’ve been welcoming children
ever since. Together, Connie and David, who is a letter carrier by day, lovingly
manage their growing household. They have become skilled caregivers,
experts at nonverbal communication, and advocates for every child that
enters their home.
“Kids deserve to be loved,” says Connie. “They didn’t ask to be born.
They didn’t ask to have what they have. Someone needs to love them.”
Despite the 24-hour care requirements in the West home, Connie and David
make it to football games and other community events, as do the kids—it’s
just on a rotating schedule. They make it work. “We have a good time,” says
Connie. “It comes down to doing what you like to do. This is what we like
to do. This is what we choose to do.”
The MENTOR Network | 13
MARIA AND NAT APONTEMentors
Pennsylvania MENTOR
It’s not unusual for Maria and Nat Aponte to hear from the children they’ve supported decades after they move out of the Aponte home. Updates and thankyou calls, notes and Facebook posts express gratitude for Maria and Nat’s support, love and good advice.
“Since 1997 when they first began their work with our children, Maria and Nat
have welcomed more than 75 children into their home and treated each one
as part of the family, with kindness and respect,” says Amy Parola, Program
Director at Pennsylvania MENTOR and the Apontes’ nominator.
Many of the youth Maria and Nat have welcomed into their home have come
with a history of trauma. Many have been institutionalized or jumped from
foster home to foster home. Maria and Nat work through behaviors, collaborate
with schools, and help the children in their care stay focused on goals so they
are able to transition to independence, a lower level of care, or back to their
biological families.
“We just love children,” says Maria.
“We give the kids what they need, we treat them like our own, and we treat
them with respect,” adds Nat. “You have to listen to them, teach them and talk
with them.”
In addition to four biological children, Maria and Nat have also adopted three
children, all now adults. To all the children who have come into their home, Nat
and Maria stress the importance of a good education and responsibility. “If you
don’t have a good education, you can’t get a good job; and if you’re not a good
person, you’re not going to make it,” explains Nat.
As advocates for children, Nat and Maria offer peer support to fellow Mentors
and are always willing to support the program in any way they can. “Everything
Maria and Nat do in their home exemplifies a commitment to children and our
mission,” says Amy.
It’s not unusual for Maria and Nat Aponte to hear from the children they’ve supported decades after they move out of the Aponte home. Updates and thankyou calls, notes and Facebook posts express gratitude for Maria and Nat’s support, love and good advice.
“Since 1997 when they first began their work with our children, Maria and Nat
have welcomed more than 75 children into their home and treated each one
as part of the family, with kindness and respect,” says Amy Parola, Program
Director at Pennsylvania MENTOR and the Apontes’ nominator.
Many of the youth Maria and Nat have welcomed into their home have come
with a history of trauma. Many have been institutionalized or jumped from
foster home to foster home. Maria and Nat work through behaviors, collaborate
with schools, and help the children in their care stay focused on goals so they
are able to transition to independence, a lower level of care, or back to their
biological families.
“We just love children,” says Maria.
“We give the kids what they need, we treat them like our own, and we treat
them with respect,” adds Nat. “You have to listen to them, teach them and talk
with them.”
In addition to four biological children, Maria and Nat have also adopted three
children, all now adults. To all the children who have come into their home, Nat
and Maria stress the importance of a good education and responsibility. “If you
don’t have a good education, you can’t get a good job; and if you’re not a good
person, you’re not going to make it,” explains Nat.
As advocates for children, Nat and Maria offer peer support to fellow Mentors
and are always willing to support the program in any way they can. “Everything
Maria and Nat do in their home exemplifies a commitment to children and our
mission,” says Amy.
14 | The MENTOR Network
DIANNE MCGINNProgram Director
MENTOR Maryland
Dianne McGinn joined the company in 1993 as a clinical coordinator for
Baltimore’s children’s program in Maryland—at that time, one of 10 MENTOR
states. She was hired to coordinate therapeutic foster care services for children
with emotional and behavioral challenges at about the same time the state
began deinstitutionalizing many children with medically complex conditions.
It was good timing. With the degree, license and experience the state required,
Dianne made the program’s first medically complex placement that year.
Since then, Dianne has spent her career forming and growing a program to best
serve Maryland’s youth who are medically fragile by taking the most vulnerable
children, sometimes dying children, and making it possible for them to live
safely in the community, with families who love them—and in many cases to be
permanently adopted by their foster parents.
“Dianne McGinn is an inspiration to us all,” wrote Patti Maguire, Vice President
of Operations, and Kathleen Smith, Quality Assurance Director, in Dianne’s
nomination. “She never loses hope or faith and continues to care for our most
vulnerable children with a passion and dedication that is unprecedented.”
Under Dianne’s management, the program evolved from being a place where
children could live out a short life expectancy in a loving home to one where
children beat the odds and live far longer than expected. Suddenly the program
not only needed more wheelchairs, but a fleet of accessible vans.
Now director of one of The Network’s largest medically complex programs
for children, Dianne oversees the care of children whose medical conditions
demand intensive, specialized care administered in the home by a skilled
Mentor, or foster parent. Her staff praise her leadership and admire her
dedication and skill. “She is willing to roll up her sleeves and get in there with
you,” says Darlene Dockins, Executive Director of MENTOR Maryland. “She is a
passionate advocate for the children, Mentors and her staff.”
“I am honored to do this work,” says Dianne. “We get to see children grow,
develop, get the best care and end up in a permanent setting—it’s a social
worker’s dream.”
The MENTOR Network | 7
TIM LABRIEMaintenance Specialist
CareMeridian
14 | The MENTOR Network
DIANNE MCGINNProgram Director
MENTOR Maryland
Dianne McGinn joined the company in 1993 as a clinical coordinator for
Baltimore’s children’s program in Maryland—at that time, one of 10 MENTOR
states. She was hired to coordinate therapeutic foster care services for children
with emotional and behavioral challenges at about the same time the state
began deinstitutionalizing many children with medically complex conditions.
It was good timing. With the degree, license and experience the state required,
Dianne made the program’s first medically complex placement that year.
Since then, Dianne has spent her career forming and growing a program to best
serve Maryland’s youth who are medically fragile by taking the most vulnerable
children, sometimes dying children, and making it possible for them to live
safely in the community, with families who love them—and in many cases to be
permanently adopted by their foster parents.
“Dianne McGinn is an inspiration to us all,” wrote Patti Maguire, Vice President
of Operations, and Kathleen Smith, Quality Assurance Director, in Dianne’s
nomination. “She never loses hope or faith and continues to care for our most
vulnerable children with a passion and dedication that is unprecedented.”
Under Dianne’s management, the program evolved from being a place where
children could live out a short life expectancy in a loving home to one where
children beat the odds and live far longer than expected. Suddenly the program
not only needed more wheelchairs, but a fleet of accessible vans.
Now director of one of The Network’s largest medically complex programs
for children, Dianne oversees the care of children whose medical conditions
demand intensive, specialized care administered in the home by a skilled
Mentor, or foster parent. Her staff praise her leadership and admire her
dedication and skill. “She is willing to roll up her sleeves and get in there with
you,” says Darlene Dockins, Executive Director of MENTOR Maryland. “She is a
passionate advocate for the children, Mentors and her staff.”
“I am honored to do this work,” says Dianne. “We get to see children grow,
develop, get the best care and end up in a permanent setting—it’s a social
worker’s dream.”
The MENTOR Network | 7
TIM LABRIEMaintenance Specialist
CareMeridian
As the maintenance specialist at CareMeridian’s Littleton, Colorado location,
Tim LaBrie touches the lives of patients, colleagues, their family members, and those in the community both directly and indirectly with his conscientious care for the building, its grounds and everyone in it.
“Tim and his nurturing effect on our patients and fellow staff remind us that our
ability to exude compassion, energy and skill, and have a positive impact on
our fellow human beings knows no specific job description,” wrote Kirk Davis,
Regional Director of Operations at CareMeridian, in a nomination composed of
accolades sent in by colleagues and individuals served by CareMeridian.
A self-starter, Tim went to work for a mining company at a young age and
quickly moved up the ranks. Twenty years later, when the company moved out
of the country, Tim chose to remain in Colorado with his wife and three children.
A couple of professions later, Tim joined CareMeridian in Littleton shortly after
the facility opened in 2012.
“He’s an integral force in maintaining our facility and touches lives wherever his
infectious smile is present,” says David Farmer, Administrator at CareMeridian
Littleton. “His resume will show an incredibly mechanically-inclined individual,
but to know him, he is a genuine human being in touch with the inner workings
of his fellow human beings.”
Tim is known for finding something in common with everyone he meets at
CareMeridian. He shares his love for cars, fishing skills, sense of humor and
good conversation with them, and searches for new ways to make patients
comfortable and happy so they may heal in the best environment possible.
Whether it’s the crafting of shower seat headrests for patients with quadriplegia
or a few words of understanding, Tim finds solutions. Patients with challenging
behaviors respond to Tim, even when they respond to no one else. A
staggering number of patient satisfaction surveys mention him by name.
“I don’t look at them as patients,” says Tim of the individuals who come
to CareMeridian. “I look at them as someone new and exciting to build a
relationship with. It’s funny how much you have in common with people.”
As the maintenance specialist at CareMeridian’s Littleton, Colorado location,
Tim LaBrie touches the lives of patients, colleagues, their family members, and those in the community both directly and indirectly with his conscientious care for the building, its grounds and everyone in it.
“Tim and his nurturing effect on our patients and fellow staff remind us that our
ability to exude compassion, energy and skill, and have a positive impact on
our fellow human beings knows no specific job description,” wrote Kirk Davis,
Regional Director of Operations at CareMeridian, in a nomination composed of
accolades sent in by colleagues and individuals served by CareMeridian.
A self-starter, Tim went to work for a mining company at a young age and
quickly moved up the ranks. Twenty years later, when the company moved out
of the country, Tim chose to remain in Colorado with his wife and three children.
A couple of professions later, Tim joined CareMeridian in Littleton shortly after
the facility opened in 2012.
“He’s an integral force in maintaining our facility and touches lives wherever his
infectious smile is present,” says David Farmer, Administrator at CareMeridian
Littleton. “His resume will show an incredibly mechanically-inclined individual,
but to know him, he is a genuine human being in touch with the inner workings
of his fellow human beings.”
Tim is known for finding something in common with everyone he meets at
CareMeridian. He shares his love for cars, fishing skills, sense of humor and
good conversation with them, and searches for new ways to make patients
comfortable and happy so they may heal in the best environment possible.
Whether it’s the crafting of shower seat headrests for patients with quadriplegia
or a few words of understanding, Tim finds solutions. Patients with challenging
behaviors respond to Tim, even when they respond to no one else. A
staggering number of patient satisfaction surveys mention him by name.
“I don’t look at them as patients,” says Tim of the individuals who come
to CareMeridian. “I look at them as someone new and exciting to build a
relationship with. It’s funny how much you have in common with people.”
6 | The MENTOR Network
JESSICA KLIMESHDirect Support Professional
REM Minnesota
The MENTOR Network | 15
6 | The MENTOR Network
JESSICA KLIMESHDirect Support Professional
REM Minnesota
The MENTOR Network | 15
After an eight-year career in restaurant management, Jessica Klimesh joined REM
Minnesota as a direct support professional in 2012 to pursue her passion to help
others. The women served at the group home where she works, along with her
fellow staff members, are glad she did, as they continue to learn from her.
“Jessica holds herself to the highest standard of personal and professional
accountability as she advocates for the individuals with whom she works,”
says Melanie Woltman, Program Director at REM Minnesota and Jessica’s
nominator. “She does so with a level of commitment and dedication, patience
and resilience, and passion and compassion that everyone around her
finds inspiring.”
Jessica’s focus on the individual and attention to detail have resulted in positive
outcomes time after time. She finds triggers that cause negative behaviors
through careful observation and journaling. Each person’s background,
schedule, habits and behaviors are observed and noted. There is no one-
size-fits-all approach in Jessica’s support. She looks for ways the individuals
we serve can manage their behaviors as opposed to others controlling them.
Whether it’s a change in diet, exercise schedule or the implementation of touch
therapy, Jessica finds an approach that successfully replaces the restraints and
outside controls most individuals had become accustomed to at an early age in
order to control their emotions and behaviors.
“These people did not choose to be this way; they have all experienced some
sort of trauma in their life,” says Jessica of the individuals she supports through
REM Minnesota. “I want them to be as high functioning as possible, so they can
work towards what makes them happy in life. I know I can help them get there.”
For the past seven years, Jessica has been working towards a dual degree in
community psychology and chemical dependency counseling, while raising five
children. She is slated to graduate at the end of this year and plans to continue
to focus on women’s mental health.
After an eight-year career in restaurant management, Jessica Klimesh joined REM
Minnesota as a direct support professional in 2012 to pursue her passion to help
others. The women served at the group home where she works, along with her
fellow staff members, are glad she did, as they continue to learn from her.
“Jessica holds herself to the highest standard of personal and professional
accountability as she advocates for the individuals with whom she works,”
says Melanie Woltman, Program Director at REM Minnesota and Jessica’s
nominator. “She does so with a level of commitment and dedication, patience
and resilience, and passion and compassion that everyone around her
finds inspiring.”
Jessica’s focus on the individual and attention to detail have resulted in positive
outcomes time after time. She finds triggers that cause negative behaviors
through careful observation and journaling. Each person’s background,
schedule, habits and behaviors are observed and noted. There is no one-
size-fits-all approach in Jessica’s support. She looks for ways the individuals
we serve can manage their behaviors as opposed to others controlling them.
Whether it’s a change in diet, exercise schedule or the implementation of touch
therapy, Jessica finds an approach that successfully replaces the restraints and
outside controls most individuals had become accustomed to at an early age in
order to control their emotions and behaviors.
“These people did not choose to be this way; they have all experienced some
sort of trauma in their life,” says Jessica of the individuals she supports through
REM Minnesota. “I want them to be as high functioning as possible, so they can
work towards what makes them happy in life. I know I can help them get there.”
For the past seven years, Jessica has been working towards a dual degree in
community psychology and chemical dependency counseling, while raising five
children. She is slated to graduate at the end of this year and plans to continue
to focus on women’s mental health.
16 | The MENTOR Network
Yo, my heart used to be so cold
I was left out in the snow, with nowhere to go
Yo, just listen to me flow
I’m just doing what I was told
I was sent to the Mentors at 19 years old
stepped in the door with raggedy clothes
Weighed just about 90 pounds
I was looking down at the ground, holding down
a frown
Because I had to leave my hometown. I was
heading north bound.
To the NO Town…AKA Fresno
and all I could really do was just look out
the car window.
Reminiscin’ feeling like I’m missin’ something in
my life
Trying my best to forget about all the cold nights
On the block, in the days that I used to carry
a blade
Now I don’t have to do dirt to get paid
Cause now I’m going to day program everyday
Getting paid in a productive kind of way
That’s how it’s forever gonna stay
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality,
Gotta watch these demons that get the
best of me.
Things that come to reality,
Lord please send me to victory.
Yo, when my adopted mom passed away
that’s when my heart stung like a sting ray
and those memories just play…and replay…
and replay.
God I miss her every day!!
I was stressin’ God I learned my lesson
Cause I treated my mother bad, not knowin’
what I really had
I was sufferin’ and I was sad but my Mentor
helped me through it
even though I was on the edge
and feeling like I was about to lose it
Yep My Mentors helped me through it
Even though I was feelin’ sad
she cracked a joke and made me laugh
KEEP ON GOINGby Justin Fulleylove
An individual served by California MENTOR
The MENTOR Network | 5
The MENTOR Network’s Ripple of Hope Awards were created in 2005 to
recognize employees, Mentors and other independent contractors whose
compassion, energy and skill create ripples of hope in the lives of others.
Recognizing that the mission of The MENTOR Network could not be fulfilled
without partnerships, 2013 marked the first time that The MENTOR Network
has honored an external party with a Ripple of Hope Award.
The award’s name echoes words spoken by the late United States Senator
Robert F. Kennedy in his 1966 address at the University of Cape Town in South
Africa during the height of Apartheid. Award winners are nominated by their
peers and selected by The MENTOR Network in recognition of their unwavering
commitment to make a positive difference in the lives of others, whether in an
office, program or community setting. Recipients of our 10th annual Ripple of
Hope Awards are heroes among us. Their legacies of caring extend beyond
themselves to touch the lives of many.
014 Ripple of Hope Award Recipients
16 | The MENTOR Network
Yo, my heart used to be so cold
I was left out in the snow, with nowhere to go
Yo, just listen to me flow
I’m just doing what I was told
I was sent to the Mentors at 19 years old
stepped in the door with raggedy clothes
Weighed just about 90 pounds
I was looking down at the ground, holding down
a frown
Because I had to leave my hometown. I was
heading north bound.
To the NO Town…AKA Fresno
and all I could really do was just look out
the car window.
Reminiscin’ feeling like I’m missin’ something in
my life
Trying my best to forget about all the cold nights
On the block, in the days that I used to carry
a blade
Now I don’t have to do dirt to get paid
Cause now I’m going to day program everyday
Getting paid in a productive kind of way
That’s how it’s forever gonna stay
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality,
Gotta watch these demons that get the
best of me.
Things that come to reality,
Lord please send me to victory.
Yo, when my adopted mom passed away
that’s when my heart stung like a sting ray
and those memories just play…and replay…
and replay.
God I miss her every day!!
I was stressin’ God I learned my lesson
Cause I treated my mother bad, not knowin’
what I really had
I was sufferin’ and I was sad but my Mentor
helped me through it
even though I was on the edge
and feeling like I was about to lose it
Yep My Mentors helped me through it
Even though I was feelin’ sad
she cracked a joke and made me laugh
KEEP ON GOINGby Justin Fulleylove
An individual served by California MENTOR
The MENTOR Network | 5
The MENTOR Network’s Ripple of Hope Awards were created in 2005 to
recognize employees, Mentors and other independent contractors whose
compassion, energy and skill create ripples of hope in the lives of others.
Recognizing that the mission of The MENTOR Network could not be fulfilled
without partnerships, 2013 marked the first time that The MENTOR Network
has honored an external party with a Ripple of Hope Award.
The award’s name echoes words spoken by the late United States Senator
Robert F. Kennedy in his 1966 address at the University of Cape Town in South
Africa during the height of Apartheid. Award winners are nominated by their
peers and selected by The MENTOR Network in recognition of their unwavering
commitment to make a positive difference in the lives of others, whether in an
office, program or community setting. Recipients of our 10th annual Ripple of
Hope Awards are heroes among us. Their legacies of caring extend beyond
themselves to touch the lives of many.
Jessica Klimesh
Tim LaBrie
Constance and David West
U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders
U.S Congressman Jeff MillerVictoria Harding
Megan Beckett
Miracle Pygum
Maria and Nat Aponte
Dianne McGinn
2 f ts
.
Jessica Klimesh
Tim LaBrie
Constance and David West
U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders
U.S Congressman Jeff MillerVictoria Harding
Megan Beckett
Miracle Pygum
Maria and Nat Aponte
Dianne McGinn
2014 Ripple of Hope Award Recipients
.
4 | The MENTOR Network
Many thanks to The MENTOR Network’s 2014 Network Nightingale,
Justin Fulleylove, for traveling from Fresno, California to honor our
Ripple of Hope Award winners with a song. Justin, who came to
California MENTOR’s Family Home Agency program three years ago at
the age of 19, enjoys regularly entertaining his fellow clients, staff and
Mentors at program events. All are inspired by his creativity and original
songwriting, which has become a powerful outlet for Justin to express his
thoughts to the world.
We thank Justin for sharing his original song, Keep on Going, with our
award winners tonight. His talent, passion and perseverance in the face
of adversity are an inspiration to us all.
The MENTOR Network | 17
She’s my other half, I love her
She’s not just my Mentor, she’s my other mother
and I really love her
She’s my best friend till the end
My mother Dana said, she’s in a better place
God I just wanna see her face
But that’s just how life is played
But I still just wish my mother could have stayed
Though the memories never fade I made a
new family
Never really thought they’d know how to handle me
I love ‘em to death cause they’re all I got left
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality
Gotta watch these demons that get the best of me
Things that come to reality
Lord please send me to victory
Yo, l’m about to spit this rap till I start running out
of breath
Yeah I love ‘em to death because they treat
me equal
They don’t treat me any differently than any other
people
I mean, just because I have a disability
I have the ability and the agility
to conquer anything
I’m trying to be the very best that I can be
And all I need is someone to believe in me
Live and learn is the key
You got to earn to receive
And I’m just trying to reach and achieve my goals
Nobody knows
The struggles and how hard it was for me to stay
outta trouble
Jump suit, handcuffs slapped down on my wrists
Shackles wrapped around my ankles
Walking through the jail halls staring at the brick
walls
That was just a phase in my life
I got past it and now I’m feeling fantastic
I overcame it, I made it out of the rain
My Mentor Dwayne
Always helped me get back on track
When I was suffering from emotional pain
He picked me up like a crane, I’ll never ever forget
their names
I swear l’ve changed for the better, and this world
is so cold
So I throw on a hoody sweater, but yo, slash that,
scratch it off
I wanna tell you all, keep your head up and
stand tall
‘Cause there are people out there that would kill to
see you fall
Yes yes y’all, yeah all you stay true
Cause there’s nothin’ in this world that you can’t do
Push push strive and just thank God that
you’re alive
If you have a dream like Martin Luther King
Then keep on keeping on
Till you reach it and you get it
And make those dreams
become reality
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality
Gotta watch these demons that get the best of me
Things that come to reality
Lord please send me to victory
own on my wris
an
aring at the brick
4 | The MENTOR Network
Many thanks to The MENTOR Network’s 2014 Network Nightingale,
Justin Fulleylove, for traveling from Fresno, California to honor our
Ripple of Hope Award winners with a song. Justin, who came to
California MENTOR’s Family Home Agency program three years ago at
the age of 19, enjoys regularly entertaining his fellow clients, staff and
Mentors at program events. All are inspired by his creativity and original
songwriting, which has become a powerful outlet for Justin to express his
thoughts to the world.
We thank Justin for sharing his original song, Keep on Going, with our
award winners tonight. His talent, passion and perseverance in the face
of adversity are an inspiration to us all.
The MENTOR Network | 17
She’s my other half, I love her
She’s not just my Mentor, she’s my other mother
and I really love her
She’s my best friend till the end
My mother Dana said, she’s in a better place
God I just wanna see her face
But that’s just how life is played
But I still just wish my mother could have stayed
Though the memories never fade I made a
new family
Never really thought they’d know how to handle me
I love ‘em to death cause they’re all I got left
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality
Gotta watch these demons that get the best of me
Things that come to reality
Lord please send me to victory
Yo, l’m about to spit this rap till I start running out
of breath
Yeah I love ‘em to death because they treat
me equal
They don’t treat me any differently than any other
people
I mean, just because I have a disability
I have the ability and the agility
to conquer anything
I’m trying to be the very best that I can be
And all I need is someone to believe in me
Live and learn is the key
You got to earn to receive
And I’m just trying to reach and achieve my goals
Nobody knows
The struggles and how hard it was for me to stay
outta trouble
Jump suit, handcuffs slapped down on my wrists
Shackles wrapped around my ankles
Walking through the jail halls staring at the brick
walls
That was just a phase in my life
I got past it and now I’m feeling fantastic
I overcame it, I made it out of the rain
My Mentor Dwayne
Always helped me get back on track
When I was suffering from emotional pain
He picked me up like a crane, I’ll never ever forget
their names
I swear l’ve changed for the better, and this world
is so cold
So I throw on a hoody sweater, but yo, slash that,
scratch it off
I wanna tell you all, keep your head up and
stand tall
‘Cause there are people out there that would kill to
see you fall
Yes yes y’all, yeah all you stay true
Cause there’s nothin’ in this world that you can’t do
Push push strive and just thank God that
you’re alive
If you have a dream like Martin Luther King
Then keep on keeping on
Till you reach it and you get it
And make those dreams
become reality
[CHORUS] Things that come to reality
Gotta watch these demons that get the best of me
Things that come to reality
Lord please send me to victory
own on my wris
an
aring at the brick
18 | The MENTOR Network
Thank you to all those who submitted nominations for The MENTOR Network’s 10th annual Ripple of Hope Awards.
Please join us in congratulating all of the 2014 nominees:
Carmen Aceves
Filemon Aguilar
Jessica Ahl
Andrea Alanis
Steve Anderson
Maria and Nat AponteDominique Atkins
Brandie Atkins
Danielle Aubin
Juliet Auguste
Helen Baker
Staci Barber
Karley Bastin
Marites Bautista
Alfredo Bayaca
Lisa Beach
Megan BeckettMadlene Beldose
James Bell
Todd and Heidi Benkert
Courtney Bennett
Kathrine Bigley
Beverly Bingham
Rachel Birmingham
Christina Bobitch
LeAnn Bosma
Oren Boulner
Michelle Bourne
LaToya Bragg-Finch
Milton and Cindy Brekle
Debbie Brown
Kristy Bruna
Reginia Buchannan
Cody Buchanon
Marina Burris
Cherrie Camper
Jill Canatsey
Lysandra Cano
Rob Carolan
Rufino Castellano
Dana Castine
Gary Chiaravalli
Beth Chouinard
Karen Christiana
Naomi Clark
Torita Clark
Rosemarie Coffey
Sabrina Collins
Janice Comtois
Rebecca Connolly
Marnicia Conway
Daniel Cordor
Nelida Cordova
Maria Cornell
Cassandra Counts
Barbara Cramer
Kimberly Craus
Beth Crawford
Manthana “Annie” Crist
Patrick Cusick
Terra Dawson
Kristy Devan
Debra Donndelinger
Donna Dylla
Annie Enriquez
Monica Evans
James Farley
Randi Farr
Ashley Farris
Kathy Fevig-Sproul
Mindy Finnenam-Feehan
Stacy Flanagan
Kenneth Foster
Cindy Franks
Laura Gamelson
Tiffany Garcia
Deisy Garcia
Grace Garcia
Leticia Garibay
Lorena Garibay
Marcuis Garr
Beverly Garrett
Tanks Garrot
Kadiri Garuba
Kacie Gauker
Meghan Geiger
Mariah Giroud
Gabe Goforth
Ryan Golding
Gomie Gonzalez
Joseph Gonzalez
Patty Goolsby
Tricia Gozzi
Marie Grafitti
Mary Gramkow
Nicolette Granville
Charleisha Green
Leslie Green
Donna Green
Ena and William Green
Renee Greene
Kathy Greico
Margaret Griffin
Greg Guarneri
Anne Gulick
Donna Gussert
Evelyn and David Hale
Kenneth Hanson
Victoria HardingJessica Hargraves
Kim Haring
Shavon Harris
Brenda and Maurice Hasan
Susan Hawk
Emily Heavner
Theresa Henderson
Diana Hobbs
Heather Hogee
Peter Hoster
David Hove
Sheila Hughes
Heidi Hummer
Arielle Hunkins
Danielle Hunt
Lenzi Hurd
Retna Hutagalung
Lucero Irizarry
Anthony Jackson
Bernard and Laura Jackson
Nathaline Jahnagile Williams
Richard Jaraba
Kerri Jarvis
Brittany Johnson
Jasmine Johnson
Shawn Johnson
The MENTOR Network | 3
6:30 PM
Dinner ReceptionDi R ti
8:00 PM
Ripple of Hope Awards Ceremony
Opening Remarks & Introduction of 2014 Ripple of Hope Award WinnersBruce NardellaPresident and Chief Executive Officer
18 | The MENTOR Network
Thank you to all those who submitted nominations for The MENTOR Network’s 10th annual Ripple of Hope Awards.
Please join us in congratulating all of the 2014 nominees:
Carmen Aceves
Filemon Aguilar
Jessica Ahl
Andrea Alanis
Steve Anderson
Maria and Nat AponteDominique Atkins
Brandie Atkins
Danielle Aubin
Juliet Auguste
Helen Baker
Staci Barber
Karley Bastin
Marites Bautista
Alfredo Bayaca
Lisa Beach
Megan BeckettMadlene Beldose
James Bell
Todd and Heidi Benkert
Courtney Bennett
Kathrine Bigley
Beverly Bingham
Rachel Birmingham
Christina Bobitch
LeAnn Bosma
Oren Boulner
Michelle Bourne
LaToya Bragg-Finch
Milton and Cindy Brekle
Debbie Brown
Kristy Bruna
Reginia Buchannan
Cody Buchanon
Marina Burris
Cherrie Camper
Jill Canatsey
Lysandra Cano
Rob Carolan
Rufino Castellano
Dana Castine
Gary Chiaravalli
Beth Chouinard
Karen Christiana
Naomi Clark
Torita Clark
Rosemarie Coffey
Sabrina Collins
Janice Comtois
Rebecca Connolly
Marnicia Conway
Daniel Cordor
Nelida Cordova
Maria Cornell
Cassandra Counts
Barbara Cramer
Kimberly Craus
Beth Crawford
Manthana “Annie” Crist
Patrick Cusick
Terra Dawson
Kristy Devan
Debra Donndelinger
Donna Dylla
Annie Enriquez
Monica Evans
James Farley
Randi Farr
Ashley Farris
Kathy Fevig-Sproul
Mindy Finnenam-Feehan
Stacy Flanagan
Kenneth Foster
Cindy Franks
Laura Gamelson
Tiffany Garcia
Deisy Garcia
Grace Garcia
Leticia Garibay
Lorena Garibay
Marcuis Garr
Beverly Garrett
Tanks Garrot
Kadiri Garuba
Kacie Gauker
Meghan Geiger
Mariah Giroud
Gabe Goforth
Ryan Golding
Gomie Gonzalez
Joseph Gonzalez
Patty Goolsby
Tricia Gozzi
Marie Grafitti
Mary Gramkow
Nicolette Granville
Charleisha Green
Leslie Green
Donna Green
Ena and William Green
Renee Greene
Kathy Greico
Margaret Griffin
Greg Guarneri
Anne Gulick
Donna Gussert
Evelyn and David Hale
Kenneth Hanson
Victoria HardingJessica Hargraves
Kim Haring
Shavon Harris
Brenda and Maurice Hasan
Susan Hawk
Emily Heavner
Theresa Henderson
Diana Hobbs
Heather Hogee
Peter Hoster
David Hove
Sheila Hughes
Heidi Hummer
Arielle Hunkins
Danielle Hunt
Lenzi Hurd
Retna Hutagalung
Lucero Irizarry
Anthony Jackson
Bernard and Laura Jackson
Nathaline Jahnagile Williams
Richard Jaraba
Kerri Jarvis
Brittany Johnson
Jasmine Johnson
Shawn Johnson
The MENTOR Network | 3
6:30 PM
Dinner ReceptionDi R ti
8:00 PM
Ripple of Hope Awards Ceremony
Opening Remarks & Introduction of 2014 Ripple of Hope Award WinnersBruce NardellaPresident and Chief Executive Officer
Presentation of AwardsDavid PetersenPresident, Redwood Operating Group
Jamison AshbyPresident and CEO, CareMeridian
Jeffrey CohenChief Information Officer
Edward MurphyExecutive Chairman
Bill DuffyPresident, NeuroRestorative
Gerry MorrisseyChief Quality Officer
Kathleen FedericoChief Human Resources Officer
Denis HollerChief Financial Officer
Dwight RobsonChief Public Strategy and Marketing Officer
Performance by Justin FulleyloveIndividual served by California MENTOR
9:30 PM
Dessert Reception
Presentation of AwardsDavid PetersenPresident, Redwood Operating Group
Jamison AshbyPresident and CEO, CareMeridian
Jeffrey CohenChief Information Officer
Edward MurphyExecutive Chairman
Bill DuffyPresident, NeuroRestorative
Gerry MorrisseyChief Quality Officer
Kathleen FedericoChief Human Resources Officer
Denis HollerChief Financial Officer
Dwight RobsonChief Public Strategy and Marketing Officer
Performance by Justin FulleyloveIndividual served by California MENTOR
9:30 PM
Dessert Reception
The MENTOR Network | 19
Kortney Johnson
Danielle Jordan
Sara Jurado
Elvira Kalalo
Jan Kells
Marta Ketter
Sieta Kiner
Jo King
Jo Etta King
Jessica KlimeshJane Klug
Magdalena Knas
Donna Krumov
Annamma Kurien
Tim LaBrieSydni LaJoie
Richard Lane
Wanda Lebron and Luis Estevez
Andrea Leckscheid
Kristina Lee
Kaycee Lele
Julie Lennon
Valarie Levy
Yila Lienert
Amanda Lindburg
Brittney Lindsey
Justin Little
Elaine Lortscher
Stephanie Machado
Mike Maddox
Patti Maguire
Brenda Malitsky
Safi Martin
Bethany Martin
Marie Mason
Maranda Mathews
Colleen Mathias
Liliana McDonough
Dianne McGinnRobin McInnis
Ana Mejia
Brian Meyer
Victoria Michalsky
Tammi Mitei
Norma Mojica
Juanita Montelongo
Elena Morales
Natalie Morey
Christy Morris
Natasha Mosley
Peter Mullaney
Tiffany Nall
James Ndungu
Traci Nelson
Marco Noel
Mark Norris
Ana Nunez
Christine O’Brien
Roger and Lori Orcutt
Nate Orcutt and Dana DeBoer
Luc Orellana
Nicole Paicopoulos
Ketzia Pandian
Amy Parola
Jennifer Parsons
James Patino
Pennsylvania MENTOR
Recruitment Team
Latroy Pepper
Carl and DeWanda Pickens
Victoria Pindur
Marina Pineda
Chamila Piyathlika
Tanesha Pough
Michael Price
Miracle PygumMary Radcliffe
Eileen Ralston
Marcia Ramos
Suzanne and Brian Revers
Edwin Reyes
DeShawn Riley
Norma Rivera
Carol Roberts
Orlando Robinson
Lidiana Rodriguez
Lisa Rodriguez
Paulina Rodriguez
Colm Roe
Bonnie Rosentel
Robert Ruskowski
Tamera Russo
Reina Samaro
Rachel Sampson
Christina Sanchez
Phyllis Santos
Leticia Santoscoy
T
Ciara Schroepfer-Reynolds
Youlanda Senegal
Dion Serrano
Catherine Sewall
Jamie Showers
Amanda Skinner
Deb Slick
Arvis Smith
Chasitiy Smith
Jean Snow
Anne Sopousek
Dawn Sorrell
Steven and Ruth Soto
Anthony Sparacino
Curtis Sparks
pUrsula Spont
Brooklyn Staff
Keri Stewart
Desiree Stinauer
Tammy Stone
Mary Stueber
Laura Tabers
Teresa Tavares
Gary Tegels
Texas MENTOR
Management Team
Adam Thione
Natasha Thomas
Jeannie Thomas
Israel Tlaseca
Yasmin Torres
Maria Torres
Karen Torres
Diane Triplett
Jason Trombley
Erin Trulli
Diana Tudor
Heather Uecker
Clorinda Urzua
Lori Vacchiano
Elida Valle
Rose Vankeuren
Janelle Vasquez
Amanda Waddell
Ginna Wagner
Irene Walker
Donna Walker
Renita Walker
Chris Washko
Darryl Watson
Rachel Weaver
Constance and David WestJason Wheeler
Carlin White
Donada Williams
Sandra Williamson
Elaine Wilson
Eni Winarni
Jacob Witon
Julia Wojciechowski
Sharon Youngs
Joan Zimbrick
The MENTOR Network | 19
Kortney Johnson
Danielle Jordan
Sara Jurado
Elvira Kalalo
Jan Kells
Marta Ketter
Sieta Kiner
Jo King
Jo Etta King
Jessica KlimeshJane Klug
Magdalena Knas
Donna Krumov
Annamma Kurien
Tim LaBrieSydni LaJoie
Richard Lane
Wanda Lebron and Luis Estevez
Andrea Leckscheid
Kristina Lee
Kaycee Lele
Julie Lennon
Valarie Levy
Yila Lienert
Amanda Lindburg
Brittney Lindsey
Justin Little
Elaine Lortscher
Stephanie Machado
Mike Maddox
Patti Maguire
Brenda Malitsky
Safi Martin
Bethany Martin
Marie Mason
Maranda Mathews
Colleen Mathias
Liliana McDonough
Dianne McGinnRobin McInnis
Ana Mejia
Brian Meyer
Victoria Michalsky
Tammi Mitei
Norma Mojica
Juanita Montelongo
Elena Morales
Natalie Morey
Christy Morris
Natasha Mosley
Peter Mullaney
Tiffany Nall
James Ndungu
Traci Nelson
Marco Noel
Mark Norris
Ana Nunez
Christine O’Brien
Roger and Lori Orcutt
Nate Orcutt and Dana DeBoer
Luc Orellana
Nicole Paicopoulos
Ketzia Pandian
Amy Parola
Jennifer Parsons
James Patino
Pennsylvania MENTOR
Recruitment Team
Latroy Pepper
Carl and DeWanda Pickens
Victoria Pindur
Marina Pineda
Chamila Piyathlika
Tanesha Pough
Michael Price
Miracle PygumMary Radcliffe
Eileen Ralston
Marcia Ramos
Suzanne and Brian Revers
Edwin Reyes
DeShawn Riley
Norma Rivera
Carol Roberts
Orlando Robinson
Lidiana Rodriguez
Lisa Rodriguez
Paulina Rodriguez
Colm Roe
Bonnie Rosentel
Robert Ruskowski
Tamera Russo
Reina Samaro
Rachel Sampson
Christina Sanchez
Phyllis Santos
Leticia Santoscoy
T
Ciara Schroepfer-Reynolds
Youlanda Senegal
Dion Serrano
Catherine Sewall
Jamie Showers
Amanda Skinner
Deb Slick
Arvis Smith
Chasitiy Smith
Jean Snow
Anne Sopousek
Dawn Sorrell
Steven and Ruth Soto
Anthony Sparacino
Curtis Sparks
pUrsula Spont
Brooklyn Staff
Keri Stewart
Desiree Stinauer
Tammy Stone
Mary Stueber
Laura Tabers
Teresa Tavares
Gary Tegels
Texas MENTOR
Management Team
Adam Thione
Natasha Thomas
Jeannie Thomas
Israel Tlaseca
Yasmin Torres
Maria Torres
Karen Torres
Diane Triplett
Jason Trombley
Erin Trulli
Diana Tudor
Heather Uecker
Clorinda Urzua
Lori Vacchiano
Elida Valle
Rose Vankeuren
Janelle Vasquez
Amanda Waddell
Ginna Wagner
Irene Walker
Donna Walker
Renita Walker
Chris Washko
Darryl Watson
Rachel Weaver
Constance and David WestJason Wheeler
Carlin White
Donada Williams
Sandra Williamson
Elaine Wilson
Eni Winarni
Jacob Witon
Julia Wojciechowski
Sharon Youngs
Joan Zimbrick
amma Schlaultman
amma Schlaultman
The mission of The MENTOR Network is to
offer adults, adolescents and children, as well
as their families, innovative, quality services and
supports that lead to growth and independence,
regardless of the physical, intellectual or behavioral
challenges they face. The Network’s philosophy
emphasizes partnerships—with those we serve,
their families, our employees, Mentors, payors and
the communities in which we work—in an effort to
help people shape the direction of their own lives in
community-based settings.
Presentation of the 2014
November 19, 2014
Newseum, Washington, D.C.
The mission of The MENTOR Network is to
offer adults, adolescents and children, as well
as their families, innovative, quality services and
supports that lead to growth and independence,
regardless of the physical, intellectual or behavioral
challenges they face. The Network’s philosophy
emphasizes partnerships—with those we serve,
their families, our employees, Mentors, payors and
the communities in which we work—in an effort to
help people shape the direction of their own lives in
community-based settings.
Presentation of the 2014
November 19, 2014
Newseum, Washington, D.C.
“Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny
ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and
daring, those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of
oppression and resistance.”
— Robert F. Kennedy, Cape Town, South Africa, 1966
www.thementornetwork.com