By Sadie Hess, Founder and CEO We understand the California budget for 2023-24 is a complex issue with significant implications for various communities, especially those relying on critical services like housing and developmental support. There was a proposal for a delay in funding for programs for Californians with disabilities until 2025, this is undoubtedly disappointing…
By Shannon Laird, ILS Facilitator It is with great excitement that I introduce Jane, one of our newest ILS members! Jane brings with her a wealth of enthusiasm, creativity, and passion for music and a genre of television shows. Favorites As Jane joins Compass, we are thrilled to welcome her vibrant energy and her love…
By Felicia Sims, ILS Supervisor When we think of Compass’ core values, we usually gravitate toward one or two that stand out to us most. Zach is unique in the sense that he embodies all of Compass’ core values in everything he does. Honor: When it comes to routine, Zach is the man with a…
By Moises Fuentes, Case Facilitator A Ball of Warmth I would like to take the time to introduce a ball of warmth and joy named Allison. Allison is a nonverbal client in the RCRC region. She is a sweet loving person and has an ability to warm your heart with simplest of gestures and signs….
By Maraya Villarreal, Senior Case Facilitator Meet Kathy! Kathy has been with Compass since 1996 and was one of the first clients to join Compass, along with her husband Ted. Kathy and Ted have been married for 46 years, and although Ted now lives with other arrangements, they continue to spend time together 1-2 times…
By Emily Simino, Case Facilitator Meet Melanie! An incredibly intelligent, funny, kind and friendly client in the East Bay. One of Melanie’s hobbies is gardening, and she has even started her own garden on the balcony of her condo. This past summer she and her roommate, Amelia, grew their own tomatoes and cilantro and made…
By Alma Torrez-Lopez, SLS Supervisor Over the last year, I had the pleasure of getting to know Curtis. He has been with Compass since 2014. Curtis has gone through hardships and many obstacles to be where he is now. His determination and accomplishments are admirable. Curtis lives alone in his one-bedroom apartment in Concord. He…
By Vanessa Hogan, ILS Manager Often when we think of Superpowers, we think of X-Ray vision or the ability to fly. But, what we overlook is that there are people around us who show up every day in meaningful ways that make a tremendous difference. Zarek’s superpower is making other people’s day. A Connection Superpower…
By Cassandra Sales, ILS Program Manager “Don’t define your world in black and white because there is so much hiding in the gray” – Unknown Gray Can Be Messy At Compass we thrive in the gray area. However, we all know the gray area can be very messy. We aim to make that less messy…
By Ramona Tate, Senior Case Facilitator In 2021, Ernie graduated from a juvenile residential group home with a very structured setting into supported living. When Ernie first arrived in SLS, his independent skills were minimal at best. He could not perform a task, make a choice, or a decision without asking for permission. His medication…