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!
Doing Better or Just Doing?
By Doug Beebe, Benchmark CEO
In my career, I have had the good fortune to work with some amazing people and outstanding teams. I have also had the opposite experience, where people literally put in their eight hours, and the teams were minimally functional. Like most of you, I enjoy working in the first environment much better than the second. As I reflect on the differences, a few qualities set those teams apart.
This subject was a key area of focus for the leadership teams I met from New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland recently in Management 202. In those sessions, I ask participants for questions on subjects they want to learn more about. One question was about balancing empathy with accountability, and a related question asked which metrics matter most when balancing quality of care and profitability.
For me, the key focus is the individuals we serve. If team decisions start with the people who have chosen us to support them, the answers become much clearer. Benchmark has built its reputation with an intense focus on quality, and quality is measured by the outcomes achieved by those in our programs. When we relentlessly hone in on what the people we serve want and do so efficiently, profitability is a pleasant result.
To be frank, profitability allows us to take risks, start new programs, and serve people that other providers often hesitate to engage with. To do so, we need to lead with empathy. That is, we need to truly understand where people are coming from. It is no easy task to put aside judgment and put yourself in another’s place. Having done so, the team can create a plan focused on the unique needs and goals of the person being supported.
Once that plan is in place, accountability is a two-way street. We need to hold ourselves to at least the same level of accountability we hold others to. This is essential in our teams as we work towards driving high-quality outcomes, and it is a key aspect of high-functioning teams. The best teams have clear expectations and hold each other accountable to them. They then work together to solve problems rather than blame when expectations are not met.
Creating solutions is at the heart of all of our services at Benchmark. I firmly believe it is because of the quality of the teams we have, from Early Intervention to Crisis and from Florida to California. I feel very fortunate to be surrounded by this culture. Thank you all for making it happen!
From the Frontlines
Hear from Benchmark employees across the country.
Amanda, what is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is having the opportunity to build meaningful and lasting connections with the individuals and families we support. It is incredibly rewarding to help identify their goals, dreams, and needs, and then watch them grow and achieve them through support, community connections, and encouragement. Being able to help create opportunities, provide resources, and find solutions that allow someone to thrive and truly blossom is such a fulfilling experience.
What is most challenging?
One of the most challenging parts of my job can be navigating the barriers that sometimes arise when helping individuals find the resources they need. Some of the people we support may have very limited natural supports and rely heavily on their team for guidance, encouragement, and connection. There are also times when someone has a unique goal or vision that has never been explored before, which means there isn’t always a clear path already laid out. What makes this challenge meaningful, though, is the opportunity it creates to think creatively, advocate, and continue searching for possibilities. I value the chance to explore different avenues and look beyond the first obstacle or initial “no.” Every challenge presents an opportunity for growth, and I’ve found that some of the most difficult journeys often lead to the most meaningful outcomes.
What is your favorite summer meal or treat?
I love all the grilled food that you can make when camping or lounging outside. Kabobs, burgers, brats, and all the yummy fixins’ that come on the side. I also feel that summer is the perfect reason to indulge in ice cream, guilt-free!
Michael, what is the best part of your job?
Making my clients smile.
What is most challenging?
One of the more challenging aspects of my role is effectively addressing and resolving complex situations involving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This requires patience, strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a person-centered approach to understand each individual’s unique needs, preferences, and support requirements. Successfully navigating these challenges helps promote positive outcomes, independence, and overall well-being for the individuals served.
What is your favorite summer meal or treat?
My favorite summer meal would be seafood salad and a treat would be pumpkin loaf!
Kourtney, what is the best part of your job?
One of the best parts of my job is celebrating those moments when a baby or toddler finally achieves a skill their caregiver has been working so hard to support. Seeing the transformation and growth in the child and family from the first visit to the last is incredible.
What is most challenging part?
The most challenging part of my job is balancing the deep connections I build with families while maintaining healthy boundaries. Because this work requires so much empathy, it can be difficult not to carry their experiences with me after hours.
What is your favorite summer meal or treat?
I really enjoy going to our local ice cream shop with my family. It’s a little farm with outdoor seating, a few animals and locally made.
July Strength and Heart Recipient: Curlie Young
We are pleased to announce that Curlie Young 
has been selected as the second-quarter recipient of the Strength and Heart Award. Curlie is a Group Home Manager in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and one of Benchmark’s longest-term employees with 35 years of service with the Company.
Curlie was nominated by Mackenzie German, Direct Support Professional, who shared, “Curlie has the deepest empathy and makes sure the clients always get the best care possible. She has unwavering care for the staff she manages too. Years ago, before I worked for Benchmark, we had a client in the hospital. Down the hallway was another client from a different house. Curlie went to go check on him as he was on life support. The nurses were just about to end his treatment and take him off support without asking his legal guardians. Curlie prevented them from doing so. In this moment, she not only expressed extreme determination and empathy, but also strength. She waited until a doctor came in and scrambled to reach the guardians. She did everything in her power to make sure he was getting proper treatment and that his and his guardians’ wishes were honored.”
Congratulations, Curlie, and thank you for your many years of caring and advocating for the individuals you serve.
As the recipient of this award, Curlie will receive a $1,000 payroll bonus. If you would like to nominate a peer for the Strength and Heart Award, you can do so HERE. We will choose another recipient in October.
Perks and Potential: New Schwab App, 401(k), and Free Financial Guidance
By Paula Spall, Benefits Administrator
New Schwab App
Access to the Schwab Workplace Retirement App ended on June 30, but you can download the new mobile app now: https://www.schwab.com/mobile.
Eligible employees can register and elect contributions at any time using Schwab’s new mobile app: https://www.schwab.com/mobile or via desktop computer: https://workplace.schwab.com/.
Do you have questions about your account at Schwab? You can get live support by calling 800-724-7526, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET.
Start Saving for Your Future!
Do you participate in Benchmark’s 401(k) plan with company match? Don’t leave money on the table! If you are eligible, you can enroll today. Employees at all levels are eligible if you’ve worked at least 1,000 hours in your first year of employment or in any subsequent plan year.
Employees hired 1/2/2025 through 6/30/2025 who meet eligibility requirements can start contributing now!
Benchmark helps you build your retirement savings by matching your 401(k) contributions. Direct Support Professionals receive a company match of 60 cents for every dollar contributed, up to 8% of gross pay. Employees in all other eligible positions receive a match of 50 cents for every dollar contributed, up to 6% of gross pay. Your own contributions are always 100% vested, and you’ll become fully vested in Benchmark’s matching contributions after three qualifying years of employment.
Receive Free Financial Guidance
Luminary Wealth can provide employees with free financial wellness, education, and retirement-planning guidance.
Learn more and schedule your meeting: https://calendly.com/d/cxhh-hvc-psg/benchmark-participant-meeting
For more information on these or any benefits, contact our Benefits Department: [email protected].
Celebrating Wins!
Celebrating Wins is a new series that highlights the meaningful victories, both large and small, achieved by the individuals we serve.
From Jordan Bailey, a Home Health Aide with HomePointe HealthCare in Hobart, Indiana
“FinnLee has started asking for vegetable and choosing Low Protein foods at every meal and before that was a huge battle. At the grocery store he picked out frozen carrots, broccoli, zucchini and yellow squash and green beans. He also graduated Preschool and into Pre-K!”
Click HERE to share a win!
Inclusion Impact Committee Seeking New Members 
The Inclusion Impact Committee (IIC) is seeking applications for new Committee members.
The IIC currently has two vacancies and is looking for employees who are dedicated to ensuring that Benchmark fosters a culture where all employees feel included.
Committee members are passionate about embracing differences as strengths, fostering belonging, and ensuring that equity and accessibility are woven into everything we do.
If you are interested in joining the Committee or would like more information, contact Dr. Antoinette Thornton, Chair at [email protected].
Moments Across Benchmark
Enjoy these photos of individuals served and staff across the Company.
Follow us on social media to see more great photos and moments. 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.
Full Potential
“I would tell someone, ‘Don’t give up. You have a happy life coming towards you, and it’s okay.”
Avery was supported by staff in our Arkansas Active Consulting program. When we first met Avery, she was under the custody of the Dept. of Child and Family Services. Our team provided wrap-around services to support Avery as she transitioned out of foster care, including therapy, caregiver coaching, and real-time crisis support.
Now, Avery lives happily with her adoptive mom, Michelle. View their story.
Promotions
Below is a list of employees who were promoted in April, May, and June and the position to which they were promoted. Congratulations to all!
Connecticut
Amanda Bongiorno, Early Intervention Team Leader
Dana Soderberg, Early Intervention Team Leader
Gianna Szabo, Assistant Director
Georgia
Vanesha Brown, Mobile Crisis Zone Lead
Victoria Bryant, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clayton Klima, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Robbins, Board Certified Behavioral Analyst
Kristen Tamargo, Crisis Regional Director
Caryn Vandergriff, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Theron Wilkinson, Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst
Destinee Williams, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Indiana
Adele Allen, IN Area Director
Gladys Arlotta, ESN Behavior Technician
David Blunk II, Team Leader
Blaine Branham, Activities Coordinator
Christine Carter, Activities Coordinator
Jacob Helmuth, Team Leader
Jesse Lukie, Team Leader
Jennifer Patterson, Extended SEFA Case Coordinator
Andrea Pickett, Team Leader
Cristina Rodriguez, HR Manager
Tyson Scott, Team Leader
Tiffany Speith, Administrative Assistant
Sara Thomas, ESN Management Coordinator
Vanessa Tonkel, Residential Manager
Tracie Vaughn, Team Leader
Joan Wall, Waiver Assistant Director
Missouri
Julia Borgers, Lead Service Coordinator
Hayden Enright, Behavior Specialist
Montana
Caleb Friddle, Team Leader
Jonathan Sanchez, Team Leader
New Jersey
Alexandria Beckford, Client Financial Specialist
Sherly Firmin-Carrier, Team Leader
Charla Harper, Team Leader
Charaya Johnson, Team Leader
Teresa Moore, Team Leader
Nelson Ongaki, Residential Manager
Ohio
Keri Austin, Supported Living Supervisor
Melissa Bankston, Team Leader
Stephanie Bolin, Team Leader
Amy Hagaman, Day Program Supervisor
Nikie Hampshire, Team Leader
Amanda Richardon, Waiver Director
Ronnise Shows, Day Program Coordinator
Milestones
Thrive honors employee hire anniversaries for July, August, and September celebrating those who have worked at Benchmark for five years and longer.
Akinkunmi Ajayi – 5
Gifty Barlue – 5
Lakeisha Barnes – 5
Alexandra Barthold – 5
Andrew Beyrer – 5
Cedric Bland – 5
Chadia Bowser – 5
Bridget Conry – 5
Monica Crutchfield – 5
Latoya Drake – 5
Erika Dugger – 5
Jaylen Gaines – 5
Lawrence Geteloma – 5
Mosunmola Geteloma – 5
Aubriah Harris – 5
McKenzie Hobbs – 5
Jessica Hoopes – 5
Baimba Kamara – 5
Kendra Kolkman – 5
Francisco Leverett – 5
Idowu Loni – 5
Amanda Lozzio – 5
Jonathan Nyirongo – 5
Latanangela Overstreet – 5
Dereka Patterson – 5
Anna Predmore – 5
Candice Reed – 5
Claudia Shriver – 5
Veronica Siples – 5
Terriona Slayton – 5
Leslie Spiegel – 5
Shantaye Tatum – 5
Russell Tennant – 5
Meghan Terwilliger – 5
James Thiongoh – 5
Eunique Vaughn – 5
Miranda Williams – 5
Stacey Wingbermuehle – 5
Brison Woods – 5
Tashia Woods – 5
Rebecca Wright – 5
Briana Young – 5
Momolu Beyan – 6
Trevon Bishop – 6
Rachel Butler – 6
Christina Cotterman – 6
Kendall Downing – 6
Thomas Ferra – 6
Jennifer Fittipaldi – 6
Warren Howell – 6
Susan Irungu – 6
Jerri Jones – 6
Lamiracle Magwood – 6
Malinda Martin – 6
Lechedzani Mbaiwa – 6
Myron Proctor – 6
Kathleen Prophet – 6
Elizabeth Razo-Ramos – 6
Sherry Ryan – 6
Cathy Scott – 6
Serena Taylor – 6
LaTonia Thompson – 6
Karen Thornton – 6
Jordan Walker – 6
Deanna Williams – 6
Antone Wilson – 6
Alisa Appling – 7
Ashel Bangura – 7
Lawanda Brown – 7
Joseph Cole – 7
Kris Conant – 7
Jedidiah Doles – 7
Daniela Elias – 7
Amera Erby – 7
Amos Fallah – 7
Wilson Gichobi – 7
Katherine Hadley – 7
Marie Harden – 7
Carol Hasson – 7
Nicole Herber – 7
Adama Kanu – 7
Pamela Kernan – 7
Jennifer Larson – 7
DaEnglan Lee – 7
Maria Loza – 7
James Madave – 7
Elbert Minus – 7
Gayflorzee Muryanquoi – 7
Shannon Nash – 7
Joseph Nzikamira – 7
Jacki Richardson – 7
Laura Robertson – 7
Rahamata Sangare – 7
Anna Stokes – 7
Carrie Wakefield – 7
Tyrone Washington – 7
Logan Weaver – 7
Lanisha Witkop – 7
Tiruneh Yimam – 7
Baseema Butler – 8
Tamlyn Fowler-Lee – 8
Ashley Griffith – 8
Kevin Harvey – 8
Siera Jackson – 8
Malik Lockett – 8
Cynthia Lockhard – 8
Jeffrey Marcum – 8
Cynthia Mitchell – 8
Megan Munoz – 8
Kathryn Saffer – 8
Ammaad Sims – 8
Jada Singh – 8
Arita Wheeler – 8
Ina Young – 8
Thomas Beebe – 9
Courtney Bierle – 9
Jawand Brannon – 9
Amanda Brewer – 9
Eboni Calhoun – 9
Brian Croft – 9
Mandy Ditto – 9
Angela DuBois – 9
Vicky Grubbs – 9
Te’Zhira Heard – 9
Victoria Heiser – 9
Leah Leidholdt-Bauer – 9
Grace Manga – 9
Kristina Maxwell – 9
Kendra Nolton – 9
Courtney O’Dell – 9
Yves Rutagengwa – 9
Stacey Stevens – 9
Saintecile Theodore – 9
Aaria Ward – 9
Joyce Aaron – 10
Richard Adams – 10
Jennifer Bush – 10
Nicole Cocce – 10
Edward Dahlkamp – 10
Sharlet Davis-Sandles – 10
Merlande Deravil – 10
Christopher Diehl – 10
Tiana Gaddis – 10
Summer Gerry – 10
Juliet Ihedike – 10
Daisy Johnston – 10
Kenneth Keegan – 10
Robert Kirkwood – 10
Portia Lewis – 10
Kenneth MacCutcheon – 10
Babila Mba – 10
Ashlee Okane – 10
Kalan Phinezy – 10
Joy Scholten – 10
Cindy Stolte – 10
Emily Grohnke – 11
Lisa Hendrix – 11
Ashley King – 11
Annette Powers Kilburn – 11
Anthony Zephy – 11
Leshan Dix – 12
Meagan Hemenway – 12
Janelle Jansson – 12
Jody Martin – 12
Christina Norris – 12
America Sheriff – 12
Beth Weiss – 12
Dawn Brown – 13
Patrice Buchanan – 13
Willie Gardner – 13
Julia Glover – 13
Patti Greer – 13
Sandra Houston – 13
Paul Kabutha – 13
Eucharia Okendu – 13
Kacianne Sealy – 13
Brenda Severns – 13
Marissa Spiess – 13
Noelle Utley – 13
Christy Ware-Payne – 13
Gloria Baity – 14
Festus Bolarinde – 14
Mallory Leatherman – 14
Bueford McKinney – 14
Eureke Moorman – 14
Diane Ressler – 14
Danielle Smith – 14
Robert Ashlock – 15
Peter Belsky – 15
Kwabena Boaitey – 15
Franklin Briggs – 15
Franklin Davis – 15
Cynthia Driggers – 15
Jerri Flowers – 15
Max Gilyan – 15
Betty Holloway – 15
Joyce Johnson – 15
Litonlya Lester – 15
Charles Osei – 15
Teresa Salemi-Gumiran – 15
Sharon Sonnenberg – 15
Jayne Spitznogle – 15
Christine Taylor – 15
LaShonda Thomas – 15
Connie Walters – 15
Minerva Coker – 16
Kimberly Finn – 16
Derrick McGraw – 16
Eileen Baker – 17
Cassandra Clubb – 17
Solomon Daniel – 17
Katie Flinner – 17
Kristen Gentilini – 17
Victoria Halbert – 17
May Listenberger – 17
Peter Mbugguss – 17
Nancy McClimans – 17
Heather Morelan – 17
David Muthike – 17
Christina Narasimhan – 17
Ruth Nothdurft – 17
Jodi Phillips – 17
Courtney Schaffner – 17
Joella Wiggins – 17
Amanda Musser – 18
Tamara Nash – 18
Philip Boakye – 19
Dewayne Totten – 19
Jayne Underwood – 19
Jeffry Harris – 20
Michelle Maio-Venezia – 20
Kerrie Miller – 20
Lennie Singano – 23
Angela Heller – 26
Lorraine Di Novo – 27
Mary Zumbaugh – 27
Brandy Patterson – 29
Thomas Titus – 29
Anne Titus – 34
Karen Shollenberger – 38