Sandra Eddy joined Toward Maximum Independence (TMI), a nonprofit serving children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), in 1990. While a great deal has changed since then, what hasn't is Sandra's commitment to ensuring that system operations are in place for TMI's staff of now nearly 400 to have the tools they need to effectively serve our clients throughout San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties. We love what she shared with us!
Q. What does this milestone mean to you?
A. We use the term “time flies” so matter-of-factly. When I look back and take stock of the past years I can see just how much LIFE has been lived within that body of time! I certainly desire to be blessed with many more walks around the sun, but that isn’t promised to anyone. I’ve learned that slowing down is not an “age-thing” – it can (sometimes) be a choice we make that enables us to really savor the moments, to enjoy our loved ones with abandonment and to exercise our gifts to the best of our abilities. For me – above all things – is my walk with God who gives me clarity and growth enabling me to embrace what is important and true.
Q. What have been your biggest Computer Information Systems challenges before and during the pandemic?
A. Frankly, we have been so busy it has been a blur to say the least! We have been preparing the transition of client information to a new database and delivering it to our direct support staff. This led to our purchasing an additional 300 devices, adding to the department’s current equipment has us currently overseeing 600 devices and growing.
Q. How have you handled the challenges?
A. Right as COVID hit, the department took on an Associate Director of Computer Information Systems position by promoting David Cross. It felt so good to have David on board the ship with me after all these years with the upcoming growth the department was facing. Together we recruited a couple more amazing individuals to focus on the enormous amount of work ahead of us involving the transition. What a blessing work can bring you when you are part of a terrific team who have such respect for each other!
Q. What is your favorite part about working at TMI and how has that changed over the years?
A. Having been afforded the trust and respect to set my schedule and run the department effectively through the years with integrity, skill and efficiency has been wonderful and enormously satisfying.
Q. What do you feel are your greatest accomplishments at TMI?
A. Apart from my answers above, just being at a company for this long nowadays is kind of rare. My greatest JOY has been delivering cutting-edge technology to staff at TMI. The managers have always had my heart as they juggle so much. I have always wanted to do my very best to provide them with tools to make their jobs quick and efficient. I’ve had a few failures, but more successes in this endeavor. Along with the amazing people I’ve worked with, I feel blessed that the path we have forged over the years has left a wide road ahead for great things for TMI.
Q. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
A. Spending time with family and friends. One of our greatest joys has been lovingly restoring our home "Eddy Ranch" since we bought it about 12 years ago.
Q. How does working at a nonprofit that is making a difference in the lives of individuals with I/DD make you feel?
A. Incredibly blessed and so fortunate.
Q. What are your hopes for the future of individuals with I/DD?
A. That the communities we live in, our workplaces, our schools and businesses continue to become increasingly aware and grow ever more closely knit in a way that opens arms and lovingly accepts, celebrates and enjoys all unique and diverse people.
We hope so too, Sandra!
You have been an inspiration to many not only for your hard work, but for your amazing decorating skills. Thank you for all that you have done for TMI over the years. We know you aren't done yet!
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 and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion.
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