She was born in Redding, CA in 1956 and lived with her family throughout her childhood and most of her early adult life. She has always enjoyed living in Redding and came to Compass over a decade ago. She lives independently in her apartment with her cat Michele and with assistance from her SLS staff.
Cathy Jo has a great capacity for joy often expressed through a squeal of delight. I met Cathy Jo a little over a year ago when I had the privilege of becoming her Case Facilitator. Cathy Jo faces challenges in her communication, which is impaired by her severe hearing loss, even with hearing aids. At her Person-Centered Planning meeting, Cathy Jo expressed in her way that one of her most important goals is her desire for connection and relationship. With help from her staff, she is working on that goal.
She has been intentional about getting out in the community to meet new people and make new friends. She has enjoyed Bocce Ball in the park, faithfully attends the Library Literacy Program, and goes to a day program several times a week. In addition to becoming more active in the community, Cathy Jo also attends Compass community events and social gatherings with other Compass clients.
One of her passions is food (she is an excellent cook!), so enjoying a BBQ get-together with other Compass clients, who are her friends, is a highlight for her. Building relationships and community is important to Cathy Jo. It is important to Compass as well. Come into the Redding Compass office and attend the community events and you will more than likely run into Cathy Jo and in doing so, you will be making a new friend.
