We are just getting started in Connecticut!

It is an adage all of us who work at Living Innovations lives by – Putting people first.

Whether that is in support of the individuals we are privileged to work with on a daily basis, or providing care to the families we partner with who graciously open their homes to others so they can lead happy, independent, and productive lives, it is simply what we do.

And it is why, in March, the members of our CT Team got together and created “welcome” packages
that were given to all of our new Community Companion Home (CCH) providers in the Nutmeg State. Our team had a lot of fun with the project and welcomed having the opportunity to say “Thank you!” to our new families.

What were some of the items included in the packages?

  • A bag of assorted Life Saver candies. (Very appropriate, don’t you think?)
  • A photo album to help the CCH providers and their participants document their time together.
  • Cool refrigerator magnets with emergency contact numbers.
  • And various other items that served as a gesture of our gratitude.

We are thankful and appreciative of the opportunity we have to work with the great people of Connecticut! Thank you all for letting us become a part of your world!

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.