Anyone can be an entrepreneur

And we have incontrovertible proof.

Malyssa Carroll, one of the individuals we are privileged to work with in Rhode Island, was looking to grow in her life. She was looking to do something that would help others. She wanted to make a meaningful contribution where she could tell people, I also help others. I have meaning. I have value.

A fierce, strong-willed, independent woman, Malyssa, along with the help of her home provider Rhonda, has started a pooper scooper business that is serving the needs of the residents of Woonsocket, R.I. and the surrounding communities.

An incomparable marketer, Malyssa, has created business cards and apparel that she wears while on the job to promote her enterprise.

Her catchphrase is, “I take your crap seriously.” Now that is a line that personifies the adage “simplicity is elegance.”

Malyssa has been part of the Living Innovations’ family for a number of years and in that time has grown immeasurably mentally, emotionally, and physically. She has found a suitable match with her home provider Rhonda, who is the eighth Malyssa’s had in her life.

By starting her business, she has created an outlet for herself where she can keep her own schedule, network, and grow her clientele.

When asked why she chose the type of work she did to start her own business, Malyssa says she simply wanted to “help the animals and their owners.”

At Living Innovations, everyone has value, everyone has meaning.

And we exist to put people first, people like Malyssa Carroll.

Joanne Malise, MSW, LCSW has over thirty years of experience with the Rhode Island developmental disabilities systems. She leads a dynamic team of professionals committed to providing the guidance and support needed to help people to live safely in the community, and experience lives filled with friends, family, personal growth and opportunities. She is a strong advocate for personalized supports and community inclusion

Andrew Taranko has been with Living Innovations since 2006. After graduating from Bentley College with a degree in Business Management, Andrew has spent the past 20 years working in Southern Maine in education, mental health, and developmental services. Andrew studied health policy and management as a graduate student in the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine.

 

Michelle Donovan

Kim Einloth joined Living Innovations in 2025. She’s a graduate of the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Psychology. Her 35-year career in human services in Rhode Island included work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as other vulnerable populations. She is certified as a Person-centered Thinking Facilitator and a Community Rehabilitation Educator.

Keri Lopes began her career in the human service field in 2002, working with and advocating for children, adults and families experiencing behavioral and mental health challenges, as well as substance use disorders and homelessness. Keri joined Living Innovations in 2024 and holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and a master's degree in healthcare management. She is dedicated to ensuring that the organization’s mission to provide support to people with diverse needs to have a good life at home and in the community is lived through the work she does each day.

Amanda Parker has worked for Living Innovations since 2008.  Amanda, who has a bachelor’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in human services, has experience working with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism, as well as issues related to homelessness, substance abuse, and children’s behavioral health. She is dedicated to ensuring people have opportunities and support to achieve their goals and dreams within the community.