Our Mission
Empowering people with disabilities by providing services that promote independence, equality and integration, enhancing their quality of life.
Vision Statement
Promoting advocacy and accountability through outreach, while finding innovative solutions to create a place of trust and support, ensuring that all have the optimum quality of life and sense of embracement in our communities.
Our Values
Mindfulness – Integrity – Individuality – Health & Wellness – Diversity – Community Involvement – Collaboration – Authenticity
Many adults who come into our program haven't enjoyed these elements in their daily living. We take pride in creating custom support systems for adults with intellectual disabilities who choose to live in an integrated community with their non-disabled peers. We encourage them to create a life that is safe, healthy and this often results in their happiness. They have dreams, set goals and many of them get to live their dream life!
A Letter from the Executive Director
Dear Community,
My name is Samantha Wilhite, the newly appointed Executive Director of Connections For Life. I am excited to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you.
I was first introduced to our agency 11 years ago when a family member turned to Connections For Life to assist with in-home support. I was and continue to be so impressed by the respect, compassion, and skills of the direct care providers and case managers.
In 2013, I was hired by Connections for Life as a Direct Support Professional and have had the opportunity to be promoted over the years to various positions, including serving as a Living Services Coordinator, Office Manager, Operations Manager, and Director of Operations. The perspective I have gained from these opportunities has deepened my enthusiasm, passion, and commitment to our mission, vision, and core values.
As our previous Executive Director, Edith Thomas embarks on her new adventure, I was appointed by the Board of Directors as the new Executive Director as of July 1st, 2023. As I am shifting into this new role, my priority and focus in the first 90 days will be to strengthen internal and external resources while maintaining a high level of service quality.
Over the last decade, I have dedicated my personal and professional talents to making a positive difference for people with disabilities through advocacy, community involvement, and empowerment. I can promise you; I do not plan on slowing down anytime soon.
I am grateful to have already been welcomed by so many of you and look forward to connecting and reconnecting with individuals and organizations within our network.
Warmly,
Samantha Wilhite
Executive Director
Connections For Life