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50th Anniversary Spotlight on Amanda Corbin

To me, HDI means helping people. When my nine-year-old was asked what his mom’s job was, he said, “She helps people with disabilities.” That’s what HDI does, and I feel fortunate to be a part of the work happening here.
Amanda Corbin – Data Support Specialist

How did you come to know HDI?
While working on my master’s at UK, I came across a temporary position at HDI.

How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
I started in January of 2017 as a temporary employee in the Evaluation Unit, and was hired in September of that year as a data support specialist.

During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
From writing an advocacy op-ed, to researching the employment needs of individuals with disabilities, to facilitating a community conversation simultaneously in Lexington, Murray, and Morehead via video conference, I’m proud to support the work of a number of different projects across HDI.

Please share a fun or fond moment you had with HDI?
I recently participated in StoryCorps training and was touched by the interviews with young people with disabilities. Sharing personal stories is so powerful, and I can’t wait to hear what stories are out there waiting to be heard!

What do you think the future holds for HDI?
I think HDI will continue to expand its reach and make an even larger impact on the lives of people with disabilities.

Do you have any advice for current and future staff and students at HDI?
There is so much expertise and so much passion at HDI! Reach out to your colleagues to learn as much as you can.

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50th Anniversary Spotlight on Alice Wang

Work hard, be happy, and be positive!
Alice Wang – Administrative Support Associate

How did you come to know HDI?
I was on the UK job site, looking for my first job, after being a stay-at-home mom for 15 years.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
I was hired November 2005 to be in charge of accounting responsibilities for the Early Childhood program.
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
The Early Childhood program was given the opportunity to assist Kentucky’s child care centers in accessing resources provided by a grant.  This occurred while we were involved in closing out the fiscal year, which is a busy time for us.  Although it required a lot of effort, I developed a process to respond to the requests from each child care center.  It was a great success and we were pleased to be part of it.
Please share a fun or fond moment you had with HDI?
All the fun potlucks, birthday parties, and even a Halloween Party one year. A lot of good and fun memories.
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
Promising & bright!
What does HDI mean to you?
They are like my second family.

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50th Anniversary Spotlight on Lori Norton

There are gonna be tough days but never forget why you are here, what HDI stands for, and never give up when it comes to making a difference in people’s lives!
Lori Norton, Project Director/IPS SE Trainer

How did you come to know HDI?
Working and collaborating with staff (great people) at HDI.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
I started with HDI in 2007 with the Community Work Transition Program.  Since 2010,  I have been an  an IPS Supported Employment Trainer, and then moved in the Project Director/IPS SE Trainer role.
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
Implementing a new project in KY, IPS Supported Employment, it really looks at how work is a part of a person’s recovery. Eligibility is based on client choice regardless of past work history, hospitalizations, justice involvement, any job readiness factors. When someone says they want to work, we move forward. I love that it is a strengths based approach, focuses on what people can do, and honors people’s preferences. What I am most proud of is that people are being referred to IPS and not excluded due to job readiness factors. I’ve seen many lives change from going to work!! Work is so much more than just a job! My motto is: A label does not define me or who I am meant to be!!!
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
HDI has a rich history of making real change for people and for systems. I believe HDI will be on the forefront of leading the way to continue to promote the inclusion, independence and contributions of people with disabilities!
What does HDI mean to you?
I believe in and love everything that HDI stands for to promote the inclusion, independence, and contributions of people with disabilities. This is not just a job to me, this is my purpose. I am thankful to be a part of such a great organization that gives me an opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives every day!!

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50th Anniversary Spotlight on David McKay

We’ve consistently improved the quality and quantity of the actionable data reports we provide to clients. 
David McKay – Evaluator

How did you come to know HDI?
Chithra Adams called me to interview me for a temporary position. I was caught in her gravitational field and never managed to accelerate to escape velocity.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
I’m coming up on 10 years as an evaluator.
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
We’ve grown the evaluation unit from 2 to 9 staff (and growing). We’ve consistently improved the quality and quantity of the actionable data reports we provide to clients.
Do you have any advice that you would like to share with current and future staff members of HDI?
There are some amazing people at HDI; they’re worth getting to know.
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
Evaluators generally hope for the best and expect the worst.
What does HDI mean to you?
Opportunity. Respect. Steady employment.
 
 

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50th Anniversary Spotlight on Dana Manning

There are many different programs and talents under the HDI umbrella. Talk to people.
Dana Manning – Research Coordinator

How did you come to know HDI?
I started as a STEPS employee.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
9 years as a Research Coordinator and 10 1/2 years as a Data Analyst
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
More accurate and efficient data analyses, and improved feedback to the programs that provide our data.
Looking back, can you please share with us a fun or fond moment you had at HDI?
Many open and interesting conversations with coworkers about anything!
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
There are so many outside influences that I could not predict. Flexibility is important – the future is never what you think it’s going to be.
What does HDI mean to you?
I appreciate the trust in my professional judgement, and the space to pursue interests and possibilities.