MiConnections Project

Coordinated the development and implementation of the MiConnections project as a model for the state: a systems change, collaborative initiative to improve outcomes for youth with disabilities using research-based effective practices

Developed and implemented strategic planning process county-wide to enhance, align, and resource services to youth as a model for the state to improve transition outcomes; utilizing strategic planning tools such as environmental scanning, community mapping, collaborative cross-sector decision-making, data analysis, identifying strengths/gaps, project management, and long/short term goal setting

Developed and facilitated a Local Steering Council representing students, parents, education, government agencies, and community-based organizations; to expand resources, direction, and decision-making capacity and sustainability

MiConnections of Kent County involved 10 schools, 75 youth with disabilities, 14 local partnering organizations, and 8 statewide partnering organizations

For more on MiConnections, see

What MiConnections Youth Are Doing In Kent County

Grant Writing and Funds Development

Program Development

JAM (Jobs, Awareness, Motivation) Student Transition Conference

As co-chair of the Kent County Community Transition Council (a collaborative of Kent County nonprofit organizations,government agencies, and schools supporting youth with disabilities), I coordinated the JAM Student Transition Conference for four years from 2002-2005. Through coordinating 25 volunteers in four work groups, we brought together over 450 youth with disabilities and over 100 volunteers from over 30 schools to hear choice topics on careers and life issues presented by over 45 speakers from business and industry, health care, government, education, and community-based organizations.