Jennifer’s introduction to Community Living wasn’t through a job board or a career fair; it happened on a ballfield. She first discovered our organization while playing in an Adult Recreation softball game for the Cottleville Firefighters Outreach with her husband. Spending the day playing against Community Living’s team made her want to be on the team instead.

At the time, she was completing her Associate of Applied Science in Human Services and looking for a practicum placement. Seeing the organization in action made Community Living her top choice. “Watching the staff interact with clients, I was immediately drawn to the organization’s mission and the compassion that radiated from every interaction,” Jennifer recalls. When she was offered an internship with the Support Services for Adults program, she accepted the role on the spot, even declining another interview she was preparing to leave the house to attend. “From the moment I walked through the doors of Community Living on my first day, I knew right away that I had found the place where I was truly meant to be. The sense of purpose and belonging I experienced confirmed that no other employer or organization could compare,” she said. “Joining Community Living remains one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Hiring Jennifer turned out to be a great decision for the organization as well. She quickly became an integral part of the team at the Kenny Wilson Center, so much so that it just made sense for her to stay on as an employee when her internship ended. She soon became the Center’s Support Coordinator and excelled in the role while earning both her associate and bachelor’s degrees in Social Work, Psychology, and Family & Juvenile Support Systems. “A true high achiever, Jennifer completed her triple major while working full-time—an impressive reflection of her dedication and drive,” said Jennifer Braden, Director of Day Habilitation at Community Living. “She is always eager to learn, grow, and contribute.” She also serves on the Gateway Coalition DSP Conference Committee for Community Living.

Caring has always been a calling for Jennifer. “From a young age, I have been drawn to helping others,” she explains. “I believe that every individual has a voice and deserves to be heard, regardless of how they communicate. Advocating for those who are unable to speak for themselves, while also empowering others to advocate for their own needs, is deeply meaningful to me.”

Her passion for people is clearly demonstrated through her accomplishments and is what made her a competitive contender when Community Living began looking for a leader at the recently-opened Young Adult Program – Dardenne Prairie location. Jennifer transitioned to her new role as Manager of the site in December. The expansion of our Young Adult Program is a critical step in supporting young adults as they navigate the transition from school to independence, and there is no one better suited to lead this charge.

Even though she’s only a couple of doors down, Jennifer will miss some of the many small moments she’s shared with the staff and participants at the Wilson Center over the years. It’s the daily greeting from Caleb, whose smile is the first thing she sees in the morning. It’s the sarcastic banter with Brian (her “favorite stinker”), the “bear hugs” from Nick, and seeing Kylee’s artistic skills blossom. It’s hearing Hannah’s beautiful singing voice and getting a daily smile from Drew. “I find joy in celebrating even the smallest victories,” Jennifer says. “Having the opportunity to make a difference and serve as a consistent support system is truly rewarding. The connections I have built with the individuals I support, as well as with my fellow staff, have left a lasting and deeply meaningful impression on me.”

But she’s eager to embrace every aspect of her new role and getting to know another group of people. “I look forward to learning the curriculum component and working closely with each individual to assist them in planning for their future and setting meaningful goals that support the life they envision.” Her philosophy for the program is rooted in growth and opportunity. “I believe that every situation presents not only a learning opportunity but also a chance to build upon each individual’s skill set. I am committed to applying this belief in my work at YAP, helping individuals grow, achieve, and thrive.”

Jennifer’s life outside of Community Living is just as vibrant. Family is at the center of her world. She has been married to her husband, Jason (a firefighter with Cottleville FD), for nearly 19 years. They are proud parents to Jacob, a union welder, and Jacie, a talented high school senior who recently signed to play volleyball at Missouri Valley College. “Both of my children are my pride and joy, and I never tire of sharing their accomplishments,” she beams.

When she’s not cheering on her kids or advocating for our individuals, you might catch Jennifer singing loudly (regardless of the key!), building Lego sets, or indulging in her “slight obsession” with sea turtles—a love that was cemented when she saw one in the wild for the first time last summer. She brings her “sarcastic and witty personality” everywhere she goes, spreading laughter whether she’s relaxing in her pool or taking Jeep rides with her husband.

Interested in joining a team where your career can grow alongside your passion? Explore our current openings and see why, like Jennifer, you might find that Community Living is where you are truly meant to be.