Welcome to Thrive, the Benchmark employee newsletter. Enjoy, and please share any stories you would like to include in a future issue with Courtney Heiser or Larissa Whitaker!
Message from the CEO
By Doug Beebe, Benchmark CEO
The other day, I read something that made me stop and think—only about 21% of all companies last 20 years. AWRC and Benchmark are doing something truly remarkable as we celebrate 65 years of service. That got me wondering about what makes our organization so resilient. How did we make it through the crucial moments that brought us here? What created the drive that has led to us being in so many states and supporting so many people?
To me, it is the stories born out of the services we provide. We have grown into a large company, but we have done it one person at a time. Our Corporate Principles drive our approach on so many levels. “Services should be designed with the client (customer) choice in mind.” “Programs should be wrapped around people rather than forcing people into fixed programs.” No matter what program you serve in, from Infant and Toddler to HomePointe to Crisis, etc., everyone we serve is seen as unique and has their own goals, dreams, and needs.
The same can be said for our employees, and a great deal of effort has gone into making sure every one of us who works here has a voice that is recognized. “We have three important assets: people, reputation, and finances. The most important of these is people, and we will develop practices that reflect that fact.” Our staff are the lifeblood of Benchmark. Those we serve and their families rarely tell me how great our company is, but they often tell me the impact our staff members have had on their lives.
People and the stories they create are what makes this company so special, and we are going to take this year to celebrate you and those we serve — to honor 65 years of service. We are doing that by collecting and sharing stories from the field. I hope you have been able to take the time to listen and watch the first of those stories from Vice President Anne Titus. If not, please do, and I hope you will watch the others as they are released. More importantly, tell us your story and celebrate the moments that happen when people working with people have those unforgettable moments and days.
Thank you for being part of this great legacy of 65 years of service. Look for more celebrations as the year goes on.
65 Years of Stories
Open Story Submissions
We’ll be releasing one video every month, but we want to hear from our staff throughout the year. See some examples below. Would you like to share a snippet of your story? Click HERE to tell us more!
From the Frontlines
Hear from Benchmark employees across the country.
Rhonda, what is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is making the individuals I’m working with or my co-workers smile or laugh and being of help at all times.
What is most challenging about it?
The most challenging is discovering a new health issue an individual served may have and knowing that they may not be able to communicate their needs to the fullest, being nonverbal or not just capable. I want to see that I have met their needs by knowing them and their behaviors.
Name one thing you’re looking forward to in 2025.
My goal in 2025 is to learn more about the company and some of the other individuals and homes Benchmark supports.
Brandi, what is the best part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is spending time with the people I support. Whether visiting them at home, at work, during their day program, or out in the community, I look forward to these moments each week. Being part of someone’s journey toward achieving a goal they’ve worked so hard for is incredibly fulfilling. Over the past six years at Benchmark, I’ve built meaningful relationships, and I feel truly privileged that the individuals on my caseload trust me enough to reach out to me whenever they need support. Additionally, I love the high-fives when I stop to see someone!
What is most challenging about it?
The most challenging aspect is when the team members aren’t aligned or on the same page. Sometimes, team members lose focus of what’s truly best for the person we’re supporting and forget to ask them what they want or need. Additionally, encouraging a growth mindset can be difficult, as many people often adhere to the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality, making it harder to embrace new approaches.
Name one thing you’re looking forward to in 2025.
I’m looking forward to taking a step back and slowing down a bit. Last year felt like a whirlwind, with little time to simply relax and enjoy life. Additionally, my husband and I recently purchased a new house, so I’m excited to dive into some renovations and make it our own. On the work front, I’m eager to watch the individuals I support reach the goals they’ve set for themselves and celebrate their successes along the way.
Rasheda, what is the best part of your job?
I love working with the clients, teaching them daily living skills, and mostly having fun with them around the house. I enjoy taking them to dances, movies, shopping, ball games, etc.
What is most challenging about it?
The most challenging part has been watching one of the clients go through a serious medical illness. I had to perform CPR. She is doing well now and thriving, though. She keeps me laughing, and that’s what keeps me coming back.
Renardo, what is the best part of your job?
The best part is the continuous learning opportunities my job provides. Each home I work in pushes me to enhance my DSP skills and adapt to each residents’ needs.
What is most challenging about it?
It’s challenging to navigate through various obstacles like encountering behavioral issues, emotional outbursts, and conflicts among residents.
Name one thing you’re looking forward to in 2025.
For the new year, as many years before, I look forward to seeing residents I have cared for move forward and achieve their goals.
Social Media Highlights
You know, you don’t have to wait until Thrive comes out to see some great photos of the individuals we serve from all over the country! Follow us on social media, just search Benchmark Human Services on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Also, if you would like to share any photos you’ve taken of or with the individuals in your area on social media, please add them to the new Social Media Upload form on the Intranet.
New Brand Name for IN Mobile Crisis & GA Transitional Homes
Benchmark and AWRC are closely connected, but legally separate, organizations. As AWRC programs such as Indiana mobile crisis and Georgia transitional homes continue to grow, they need a strong brand to build relationships within their communities.
We are excited to announce that the Indiana mobile crisis program and the Georgia transitional homes are now using the d/b/a Enact. Enact speaks to the action-oriented support provided in these programs and throughout our organization. Going forward, new programs added under AWRC will adopt the name Enact as well.
You can check out the new website at enactcare.com and follow the teams on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn: @EnactCare.
Note: AWRC as a legal entity will stay the same, and so will other brands under AWRC such as Tandem, Highway Safety Specialists, and Camp Red Cedar. The Benchmark brand will stay the same as well.
Celebrating Five Years of Progress: DEIA at Benchmark Human Services
By Dr. Antoinette Thornton, Operations Analyst and Chair of DEIA Committee
This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Committee at Benchmark. This milestone invites us to reflect on our progress and the meaningful impact of our efforts. Since its inception in 2020, the DEIA Committee has been instrumental in fostering a workplace culture where every voice is valued.
At Benchmark, we recognize that diversity strengthens our organization and enhances the quality of care we provide. Our DEIA efforts are not just initiatives; they reflect our core values and are essential to our mission.
Our DEIA Committee: Driving Change from Within
Our DEIA Committee comprises nine passionate employees who bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives. The committee has been at the forefront of promoting a more equitable workplace through key initiatives and projects aimed at fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers.
Key Initiatives and Achievements Over the Past Five Years
The DEIA Committee has spearheaded several impactful programs and initiatives, including:
– Policy Review and Revision: We have comprehensively reviewed company policies to ensure they align with our DEIA values. This includes updates to our hiring practices, anti-discrimination policies, and accessibility accommodations to promote equity at every level of our organization.
– Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): We have established several ERGs to provide employees with safe spaces to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on initiatives that promote a more inclusive workplace.
– Training and Education: We have developed and delivered a variety of training sessions focused on cultural competency, unconscious bias, and inclusive leadership. These trainings help employees understand and embrace DEIA principles in their day-to-day interactions.
– DEIA Surveys: We have implemented regular surveys to gather employee feedback to ensure our DEIA efforts are meaningful and responsive. These insights have been invaluable in guiding strategy and identifying areas for improvement.
– Community Engagement and Partnerships: Our commitment to DEIA extends beyond our organization. We have partnered with community organizations to promote equity and accessibility in communities, supporting initiatives that align with our values.
Looking Ahead: The Future of DEIA at Benchmark Human Services
While we are proud of our progress, we know that the work of promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility is ongoing. As we look to the future, we are committed to:
– Expanding DEIA Training Opportunities
– Enhancing Recruitment and Retention Strategies
– Promoting Accessibility and Accommodations
– Building on Our Partnerships
A Heartfelt Thank You
We extend our deepest gratitude to every employee who has contributed to our DEIA journey. We have made great strides in fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace, and together, we will continue to build on this vital work. Here’s to many more years of progress, growth, and positive change!
Meet the ERG Member – Justin Amos, Q.U.E.E.R.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are voluntary, employee-led, employer-recognized groups whose goal is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace where all employees feel a sense of belonging. Benchmark currently has three ERGs, one of which is Queer Unity for Employee Education and Resources or Q.U.E.E.R. Justin Amos chairs the group for employees identifying as LGBTQ+ and allies. Learn more about Justin below.
Meet the DEIA Committee Member
Meet Amber Edwards. Amber is a DEIA Committee Member and works for Benchmark’s Community Action Treatment program in Georgia.
Residents in New Hampshire are Thriving!
In the April 2024 issue of Thrive, we announced a new partnership with the State of New Hampshire to move 40 individuals with disabilities back home from out-of-state placements. After many months of preparation, Benchmark is now serving five individuals in three homes. Once the startup phase is complete, the team will be serving 40 people in 10 homes. Kyle Morse, Benchmark director in New Hampshire, says she anticipates at least six homes will be open by early spring.
Though the timeline has been long, those who have begun receiving services have transitioned well and are seeing improved quality of life.
“One individual who came back from out of state is working paid employment, playing guitar with staff, and pursued a membership at a local makerspace, where he quickly met a friend and has met up with him in the community,” Morse said. “Another individual is similarly pursuing paid employment, and enjoying Manchester nightlife on select weekends. We have an individual who transitioned to us from a multi-year inpatient hospital residency this fall, and he has been doing so well. He is due to fade his supervision ratio in a few weeks. Another individual has been working through challenges of big transitions with staff support, has been enjoying epic dance parties, and is starting to engage in his community by visiting the local YMCA. This is why we do what we do.”
New Active Consulting Program in California
In December 2024, Benchmark launched Active Consulting in Los Angeles County. Active Consulting is a wrap-around service for individuals with complex needs who are experiencing a crisis and seeking to transition to lower levels of care.
Through Active Consulting, Benchmark’s team collaborates with families, providers, and caregivers to build on their skills and strengths so they are more confident and capable of supporting someone in crisis, creating better outcomes for all.
The California Active Consulting program is led by Noe Rivera (MA, BSN), Benchmark’s Active Consulting Director, and Ashley Hogan (MA, BCBA), Program Manager. Rivera has more than ten years of hands-on experience providing and overseeing services to people with behavioral disorders and disabilities. Hogan previously worked as Project Director for Benchmark’s Alabama ACCESS program.
Promotions
Below is a list of employees who were promoted in October, November, and December and the position to which they were promoted. Congratulations to all!
Georgia
Brian Timmons, Transition Program Assistant
Kassandra Cruz, CAT Clinician
Ramona Mott, Regional Director
Stacie Fitzgerald, Zone Lead 1
Indiana
Chloa Hulse, Team Leader
Kim Bolen, Manager of Health Services
Lori Pettit, Payroll Manager
Shawn Richardson, Team Leader
Shelly Hartwell, Community Connections Coordinator
Missouri
Latonia Story, Supported Living Manager
Montana
Desarea Martinez, Team Leader
Sean Byrd, Team Leader
Sophie Steinwand, Team Leader
New Jersey
Debra ONeal, Residential Manager
Ohio
Dennis Stephanie, Supported Living Supervisor
Jillian Painter, Team Leader
Julie Sturgill, Program Coordinator
Moneai Krugh, Supported Living Supervisor
Ryan Frazier, Team Leader
Milestones
Thrive honors employee hire anniversaries for January, February, and March celebrating those who have worked at Benchmark for five years and longer.
Akofa Makolle – 5
Ali Rumple – 5
Alisha Key – 5
Amanda Michel – 5
Amanda Nelson – 5
Amanda Scully – 5
Amy Barnett – 5
Amy Demore – 5
Amy Rumpf -5
April Silverman – 5
Armah Gray – 5
Asa Lowder – 5
Ashley Morris – 5
Barbara Allen – 5
Bhalchandra Joshi – 5
Catherine Piterski – 5
Christopher Rollins – 5
Crystal Weigel – 5
Daniel Beights – 5
Daniel Woodruff – 5
Dawn Kail – 5
Dawn Bedford – 5
Debora Nugent – 5
Deborah McCrary – 5
Dymon Coachman – 5
Ellen Martino – 5
Eric Schlueter – 5
Erica Jones – 5
Gregg McGinnis – 5
Gregory Ungemach – 5
Hannah Matthews – 5
Hazel Ogunlade – 5
Jessica Umber Williams – 5
Joan Wall – 5
Johnathan Kaylor – 5
Judy Chege – 5
Kenneth Ennals – 5
Leah Safley – 5
Mahulda Williams – 5
Mary Torok – 5
Melissa Knickerbocker – 5
Melissa Robusto – 5
Nancy Hastings – 5
Nicole Tucker – 5
Nkurunziza Desire – 5
Pamela Clark – 5
Precious Snipes – 5
Quantry Harris – 5
Robert Kugelmann – 5
Samantha Liguori – 5
Samuel Kuria – 5
Sharnice Williams – 5
Shelisa Fikes – 5
Tiera Norton – 5
Valerie Church – 5
Willeika Smith – 5
Zykira Gray – 5
Abby Roebuck – 6
Aisha Jefferys – 6
Albert Crumbley – 6
Caroline Herman – 6
Connie Nicholson – 6
Corey King – 6
Deborah Meacham – 6
Eureka Scales – 6
Femi Oshin – 6
Haley Seeley – 6
LaToya Bostic – 6
Lisa Howle – 6
Mary Njomo – 6
My’Quell Warfield – 6
Paula Pike – 6
Rhonda Keeney – 6
Semika Roach – 6
Shannon McGlynn – 6
Timothy Stewart – 6
Angela Smith – 7
Ayesha Thomas – 7
Barbara Walden – 7
Brookelynn Kiester – 7
Charlotte Ellis – 7
Chinyere Okebe – 7
Hellen Waruingi – 7
Jaden Gordon – 7
Jared Bess – 7
Jennifer Imlay – 7
Kara Emery – 7
Kendra Butler – 7
Kristina Fought – 7
Laura Christiaens – 7
Lauren Lloyd – 7
Nadine Sims – 7
Nazaire Nicolas – 7
Patience Stewart – 7
Penny Fawbush – 7
Rose Filteau – 7
Stella Carlson – 7
Suzy Morris – 7
Vicky Bollinger – 7
April Evans – 7
Balinda Fonner – 8
Damilola Lawal Bankole – 8
Darla Downey – 8
Deirdra Sago – 8
Donald Oshiomah – 8
Dorianne Schmidt – 8
Geoffrey Avery – 8
Jacqueline Hightower – 8
Jamaal Sanders – 8
Jamal Green – 8
Jeff Miller – 8
Jeffrey Frady – 8
Kaia Zelt – 8
Kathryn Wilkinson – 8
Kelli Saine – 8
Kezia Jackson – 8
Ryan Haley – 8
Sean McCaulay – 8
Shawnlisa Nevels – 8
Sheila Canada – 8
Taneka Borders – 8
Taylor Berg – 8
Tracee Smith – 8
Afolabi Ogunbowale – 9
Alandra McGhee – 9
Brandon Riley – 9
Cheryl Bilbrey – 9
Christa Raines – 9
Craig Whonsetler – 9
Deborah Welby – 9
Dimitris Katsaounis – 9
Jacqueline Shuppert – 9
James Bain – 9
Karen Agaiby-Mena – 9
Kevie Thomas – 9
Lakeshia Horne – 9
Latonya Elliott – 9
Loretta Taylor – 9
Lorry Augustin – 9
Maria Hainline – 9
Michaela Jan Carpenter – 9
Motunrayo Owolabi – 9
Reeta Masih – 9
Shaina Baldwin – 9
Sharday Mabins – 9
Tanisha Colon – 9
Traveon Stevenson – 9
Tyree McCreight – 9
Adriana Garcia – 10
Andrew Harris – 10
Barbara Lane- 10
Christine Sellers – 10
Claudia Jackson – 10
Deandra Burnett – 10
Dymond Davis – 10
Elizabeth Hohman – 10
Heather Macbeth – 10
Irene Omboga – 10
John Miller – 10
Karen Bischoff – 10
Lacesha Jeffers – 10
Linda Powers – 10
Pamela Parker – 10
Rachael Nelson – 10
Rebecca Mays – 10
Steven Bright – 10
Tatiana Johnson – 10
Tedwick Theodore – 10
April Clerkley – 11
Christina Briggs – 11
Darryl Harmon – 11
David Herrmann – 11
Deaundra Lewis – 11
Dennis Stroup – 11
Douglas Beebe – 11
Jamal Cooper – 11
Jeremy Joyner – 11
Jerry Mote – 11
Lateachca Carswell – 11
Shaunna Turner – 11
Stacie Fitzgerald – 11
William Exner – 11
Cawanna Wadley – 12
Claudia Springer – 12
Edward Mowen – 12
Jonathan Rushton – 12
Joseph Gootee – 12
Kathleen Manegre – 12
Keith Miller – 12
Laurie Heckman – 12
Melissa Shaw – 12
Modester Nnona – 12
Nikki Cotterman – 12
Ragna Urberg – 12
Renee Broughton – 12
Tondaleah Eversole – 12
Belinda Christensen – 13
Dedria Handerson – 13
Erika Moore – 13
Jeremy Wimbley – 13
Kimberly Leal – 13
Latasha Green – 13
Lori Blanco – 13
Orlando Wash – 13
Rosita Stewart – 13
Ruth Bates – 13
Sycilla Smith – 13
Tammy Carroll – 13
Alocia Robertson – 14
Angela Honshell – 14
Anthony Bryant – 14
Benjamin Harrison – 14
Debra Williams – 14
Dorothy Robbins – 14
Julie Heiges – 14
Rasheda Patterson – 14
Susan Brown – 14
Timothy Fitzgibbons – 14
Andrew Baden – 15
Casey Lolmaugh – 15
Douglas Houser – 15
Jeff Cross – 15
Laine Muston – 15
Stacy Christopher – 15
Ann Williams – 16
Harold Eagleson – 16
Lucy Ngwenya – 16
Souleymane Adamou – 16
Theresa Prentice – 16
Jill Tatalovich – 17
Rhonda McAuley – 17
Rosalind McCall – 17
Shawn Fields – 17
Jennifer Smith – 18
Kim Stephens – 18
Tyaan Winn – 18
Yared Belew – 18
Kathy Thorson – 19
Kimberly Larson – 19
Nathan Heimann – 19
George Sewell – 20
Julius Kerkula – 20
Clara Chibweya – 21
Sherri Morris – 21
Courtney Heiser – 22
Kelly Stahl – 22
Timothy Cline – 22
Deborah Hanan – 23
Gary Brabson – 26
Joyce Wright – 26
Todd Staszak – 29
Curlie Young – 35