Celebrating 10 years of service, TMI Community Living Services Case Manager Jenna Plante assists our clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be as independent as possible. While it is important for all of us to learn how to pay bills, clean house, be safe in our communities, and advocate for ourselves, it is imperative that all individuals be accepted, included and valued members of our communities. Jenna helps our clients to do just that and more. Her care and compassion shine through!
(Jenna with her wife Nicole)
Q: What first interested you about working at TMI?
A: I’ve always enjoyed working to assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I worked for a different agency for seven years and I really liked connecting with people and assisting them to be more independent. A close friend was working here and had amazing things to say about TMI. I applied and the rest is history.
Q: What is your favorite part about working at TMI?
A: I love supporting our clients. I learn just as much, if not more, than what I’m able to teach. We have extremely dedicated staff who are making huge differences in the lives of our clients every day. I am proud to be a part of those teams.
Q: What challenges do you and/or our clients face?
A: A big challenge in San Diego is affordable housing, for our clients and for everyone.
Q: How have you handled the challenges?
A: I’ve tried to maintain connections with property management companies that offer affordable housing. I work with clients on reasonable expectations for the cost of rent and living. We get as creative as possible to assist our clients in getting their own place.
Q: How does making a difference in the lives of our clients make you feel?
A: I love being a part of our client’s support teams. When I’m able to assist a client in achieving a goal I feel like I’m doing exactly what I should be doing. Watching people grow and realize their potential is one of the greatest gifts.
(Jenna assisting at a CLS client gardening event)
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
A: I enjoy camping with my wife, making soap, as well as spending time with my family and friends.
Q: Who do you admire? Why?
A: I admire my mom, she has taught me how to love unconditionally and that anything is possible as long as you never quit trying.
(Jenna with her mom, Peggy, who assisted with the CLS gardening event)
Q: Words to live by?
A: Act in the valley so that you need not fear those who stand on the hill.
-Danish Proverb
So true! Congratulations on 10 years with us, Jenna. TMI and our clients are fortunate to have such a wonderful, hard-working and dedicated employee such as you!
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. 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 and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion.