Who’s “At-Risk”? How to Determine and Address Risk of Institutional Placement to Achieve the New Core Service of Diversion

Michelle Crain

Executive Director of LIFE, Inc.

Michelle Crain has been the Executive Director of LIFE, Inc. for the past 17 years. Within the last 8 years, she has established new Centers for Independent Living in both Abilene and San Angelo, Texas. Under Ms. Crain’s direction, LIFE, Inc. has enhanced its IL program through various innovative projects, most notably, nursing home to community transition, housing, Social Security advocacy, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, and health and fitness.

In response to the New Core Services, mandated under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act of 2014 (WIOA), Ms. Crain has developed a Questionnaire to assist consumers in developing a comprehensive Independent Living Plan (ILP) that addresses “at risk” factors; thereby, diverting consumers from institutional placement. She also served on the Leadership Team for the Common Outcomes and Return on Investment Project, a statewide initiative to develop a framework for consistently counting, collecting, and reporting CIL services.

Jackie Pacha

Founding executive director for the Brazos Valley Center for Independent Living (BVCIL)

Jackie Pacha is the founding executive director for the Brazos Valley Center for Independent Living (BVCIL), which is located near the home of Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. She has over twenty-five years’ experience working with people who have disabilities as a Sign Language Interpreter, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, and Special Education Teacher and Administrator. Additionally, she has taught Adaptive and Assistive Technology at Texas A&M and worked with school districts in establishing structured work experience programs for students with disabilities. Jackie has a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from Texas A&M, a Master’s in Counseling and a Bachelor’s in Rehabilitation Services from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas.

Nancy Penland

Director of Programs for LIFE Inc.

Nancy Penland is the Director of Programs for LIFE Inc. in Lubbock, Texas. After earning her degree in Laser Technology and working on contracts with the Department of Defense, Nancy decided to make a drastic career change to pursue her passion in assisting individuals with disabilities. She joined the Independent Living Movement in 1992, working with a Center for Independent Living and later secured contracts with the Texas Rehabilitation Commission to provide Supported Employment and Job Readiness Training. In 1998, Nancy joined the LIFE staff as an Independent Living Specialist. In 2001, she became the Director of Programs, responsible for staff training, capturing and analyzing data to ensure effective service delivery to consumers and grant writing. During her tenure with LIFE Inc., Nancy has been instrumental in the establishment of two additional CILs and their continued service expansion.