Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Karen Evans is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in the field of community services and care provision. As the Co-Founder of Club 42 and a Respite Care Giver at RESPITE, INC., she leverages her extensive experience to deliver exceptional support and assistance to individuals with special needs.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
Co-Founder at Club 42 (2017-02-01 to Present)
- Oversees the strategic direction and daily operations of a thriving community-based organization that provides inclusive recreational and social activities for individuals with special needs.
- Spearheads the development and implementation of innovative programs and initiatives that foster social integration, skill development, and enhanced quality of life for the organization's participants.
- Maintains strong partnerships with local stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, and families, to ensure the delivery of comprehensive and responsive services.
Respite Care Giver at RESPITE, INC. (2011-06-01 to Present)
- Provides compassionate and personalized care to individuals with special needs, offering respite and support to their families and caregivers.
- Develops and implements individualized care plans to address the specific needs and preferences of each client, ensuring their safety, well-being, and engagement in meaningful activities.
- Collaborates closely with interdisciplinary teams, including healthcare professionals and social workers, to coordinate comprehensive care and support services.
Swim Site Supervisor at Swim America ASCA (2003-03-01 to Present)
- Oversees the operations and management of a specialized swim instruction program, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, inclusive lessons to individuals with diverse abilities.
- Trains and supervises a team of swim instructors, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment for all participants.
- Actively promotes water safety and adaptive swimming techniques to enhance the independence and confidence of individuals with special needs.
Career Progression
Prior to her current roles, Karen served as a Special Needs Paraeducator at Atascadero Unified School District, where she provided individualized support and facilitated the inclusion of students with special needs within the educational setting. Additionally, she gained valuable experience during her service in the U.S. Coast Guard, where she developed strong problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Academic Background
Karen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, where she specialized in the provision of support and resources for individuals with diverse needs.
Areas of Expertise
- Inclusive program development and implementation
- Compassionate and personalized care for individuals with special needs
- Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and community partners
- Adaptive swim instruction and water safety education
- Leadership and team management in the community services sector
Professional Impact
Through her dedicated efforts, Karen has positively impacted the lives of countless individuals with special needs and their families. Her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity, enhancing quality of life, and empowering her clients has earned her a respected reputation within the local community. As she continues to lead innovative initiatives and forge strong partnerships, Karen remains committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and genuine passion for community service, Karen Evans is poised to further expand her impact and contribute significantly to the field of special needs support and care provision. Her diverse background, combined with her unwavering dedication to her clients, positions her as a valuable asset in her current and future endeavors.
