It is truly an honor to be selected as the next executive director of MV Advancements (formerly Mid-Valley Rehabilitation). Having worked in both for-profit and non-profit businesses, I have many tools in my kit to make a difference for this organization. I have served on the MVA board for the past 18 months, and that has provided me an understanding of the important work we do and also given me a deep appreciation for the challenges ahead.

Since 1966, MVA has been a leader in providing services to individuals with developmental disabilities. As we move forward, we are committed to providing even more of our clients with community-based employment opportunities. We thank the businesses that have supported this effort and look forward to partnering with new companies that can benefit from employing individuals with disabilities. Together, we can make a difference and create a win-win situation for all.

In many ways, I have prepared my entire career for this opportunity. Not only does this include my past work, but also I have a brother with disabilities who lives in a group home in Mt. Angel. My brother Wally has helped me appreciate the importance of agencies such as MVA that provide vocational, residential and community inclusion services to adults with disabilities. It is vital that we provide individual services to meet the needs of each client, and MVA does an excellent job at this in the communities we serve. I thank Joyce Robinson, the current executive director, for all her efforts the past several years. We have a great foundation to build on!

With our recent name change to MV Advancements, we have recommitted to our leadership role in assisting individuals experiencing developmental disabilities. We believe our role is to assist our clients to advance in their lives, based upon their strengths, interests and dreams. We do this work with love in our hearts knowing the sky is the limit for our clients. We could not have created a better logo for MVA than a heart and arrow signifying this commitment to those who we serve.

Sincerely,

Kathy