Today we’d like to introduce you to Marie Roush.
Hi Marie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I currently have over 20 years of leadership experience, supporting people with disabilities. I started in 2005 as a house manager, then was promoted to a Director of Residential Services, then Chief Operating Officer, then Executive Director. I have only worked with three agencies during my time in this field.
I have assisted in establishing multiple residential homes and community employment opportunities for the people I support.
On August 2nd, 2021, I joined Community Options, Inc., overseeing the Greater Knoxville region, that covers Blount and Knox Counties.
Community Options is a national nonprofit that supports over 5,000 people with disabilities through innovative housing and employment programs. The organization’s Greater Knoxville region has quickly opened new homes to integrate people with disabilities into the community.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. The greatest struggle is the ability to hire, train, and retain Direct Support Professionals. These staff represent the most critical part of our workforce. There has been a continued shortage of direct support professional throughout the country for a number of years. Also, we compete mainly with retail, fast food, and other service industries for the same workforce.
Being able to secure affordable housing for the individuals we support is an ongoing challenge. Community Options has been committed to purchasing homes in the community and offer and affordable rent option to the people we support.
Last but not least, there remains a challenge to secure competitive employment for people with disabilities. This has improved over the years, but remains a work-in-progress.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Community Options?
Community Options, Inc. was incorporated on February 9, 1989 to develop residential and employment supports for people with severe disabilities. I oversee the day-to-day operations of the Greater Knoxville region that covers Knox and Blount Counties. I am also the race director for our annual Cupid’s Chase 5K Run/Walk fundraiser.
Since its inception, Community Options has been devoted to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, thus cultivating a reputation for providing exceptional person-centered services that are unique to each individuals’ needs.
With a mission to develop housing and employment opportunities for people with disabilities, Community Options believes in the dignity of every person, and in the freedom of all people to experience the highest degree of self-determination. Throughout its history, Community Options has participated in institutional closure and community residential placement for thousands of people across several states. As a national agency, COI does not administer any large programs; rather, we recognize that people with the most severe disabilities require environments, equipment, clinical staff, and supports that are individualized and tailored to their specific needs. COI programs and services include community-based living, employment supports, high school transition programs, and specialized programs for respite and medically fragile people with disabilities.
The officers, management and staff of Community Options have many years of experience in providing community based residential and employment support to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, physical disabilities, traumatic brain injury and dual diagnoses. The agency has developed an expertise in working with state and county based authorities to facilitate community placement for persons moving from institutions, as well as transitioning from their family home. This expertise includes the utilization of national staff to support locally recruited executive directors in submitting individualized service plans, locating and securing appropriate homes, condos and apartments, and recruiting and training experienced staff. Community Options has a vast network of experts and consultants in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities to assist staff in designing and operating services that meet very specific needs.
Community Options contracts with various government entities and is supported by dedicated staff in programs throughout several states: Arizona, Iowa, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah.
Additionally, the organization is experienced in providing International support services in Europe, South America, and the Middle East.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
That I have an adult niece with disabilities. That I love fantasy/horror books and movies. I also love to travel.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.comop.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/communityoptions/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CommunityOptions
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/communityoptions/
- Twitter: https://x.com/COINATIONAL
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/communityoptions
- Other: https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Knoxville/CupidsChase5KKnoxville
