Toward Maximum Independence (TMI), a nonprofit serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981, was honored to recognize three outstanding leaders with our agency at our annual Transforming Lives "Great Gatsby" Gala to benefit our clients.
Martin Luther King Jr. stated, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” These individuals showed their unwavering commitment, support, and dedication to TMI as we faced one of our most challenging times in the last 41 years due to the pandemic. Like every business, we were faced with funding delays, staff shortages, service disruptions, and even worse, COVID casualties. We were determined to make sure that we provided each and every staff and client with the necessary resources, support and supplies to keep them as safe as possible. These leaders rose to the challenge!
As TMI Director of Human Resources, Rebeca Valenzuela joined TMI more than five years ago bringing along with her expertise in employment law as an accomplished and well respected attorney in her field. She diligently provided us with sound advice and solid footing as new rules and regulations bombarded our agency due to the pandemic. During chaos, Rebeca helped us focus on the well-being of our staff and clients to make sure we were doing what was needed to keep everyone safe and the agency sound.
TMI Director of Finance Li Ke's brilliant financial abilities have taken TMI to another level to reach our vision of assisting more clients than ever before. Her financial leadership is second to none. We are truly blessed and honored to have her as a part of the TMI family. Li shows genuine care for us all by the pride she takes in her work and the endless hours she puts in to make sure we are financially solid.
TMI Associate Executive Director Jessie Campbell is our Executive Director Rachel Harris' right hand! He has proven his loyalty to making TMI a better place to be. His leadership and oversight of our programs has manifested such magnificent success of growth and expansion allowing the dreams of our clients to come true. Jessie should be proud of the work he has done and for the support he has given our clients and staff throughout the years. His creative and innovative ideas have allowed this agency and all those connected to truly thrive. Jessie is not a man of many words, but he is a man of great action and for that we are so grateful!
"I can honestly say that I would not be the leader that I am today without the expertise, creativity, and support that each of you bring," said Rachel. "Many times, leaders carry the burden without receiving the appreciation, but I want to say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! Trust me, I see the long nights, the grueling work, the endless projects, and the countless emergencies. I also see your PASSION, your DRIVE and your COURAGE to forge ahead for a brighter future for TMI. As a visionary myself, I’m so excited to see what the future holds with our amazing staff, dedicated Board of Directors, and you three by my side!"
Congratulations to you all on receiving TMI’s LEADERSHIP AWARD!
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) has been transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981 and the Deaf and Hard of Hearing since 2000. In 2020, we launched Disabled Veteran Employment Services. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living and Family Support Services throughout San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion.
Comments