Local Austinite to Take Charge of Growing Program
PRINCETON, NJ (December 1, 2015) – A woman who knows the area very well is now leading the Austin, TX office of Community Options. Katie Jones, an Austin resident, was recently named Executive Director of the region.
Community Options is a national nonprofit organization that provides housing and employment support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1989.
“It is important to me that my job is meaningful. Forming connections with the individuals we serve, advocating on their behalf, enhancing their quality of life, and watching them grow and prosper in their independence is truly my purpose and is thereby very meaningful to me,” said Jones. “I find that meaningful jobs are the most personally rewarding, even in challenging times. I am enthusiastic about joining COI for the opportunity to lead my team in doing just that.”
Jones attended Stephen F. Austin High School and graduated in 2005. She then graduated from Texas State University in San Marcos with her BS in Social Work (2011) and her Masters degree in Social Work Direct Practice (2012). Jones was part of the Advanced Standing program, allowing her to graduate with her Master’s in one year. She has worked with individuals with developmental disabilities directly in the local state supported living center as well as the local authority. She brings over five years of field experience to Community Options.
“Austin, Texas is my hometown and I have resided here the majority of my life. It is important to me to support my community in education about individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, to battle stigmas and to enhance opportunities,” said Jones. “Austin is rich with opportunities for community involvement, work and fun! I look forward to helping the individuals we serve explore our community. I am optimistic that I can support my team in representing the agency in a positive and professional way and in growing the COI presence in Austin.”
About Community Options
For over 25 years, Community Options has developed housing and employment programs for people with disabilities. Community Options operates with a budget over $107 million and serves thousands of people with disabilities through 38 offices across 10 states. Providing advocacy assistance to empower people with disabilities, Community Options believes that all people –regardless of disability level – should live and work in the community with dignity, choice, and self‐determination. A registered PVO with USAID, Community Options is also the pioneer of innovative programs for people with disabilities in the Middle East, Russia, and South America. Please visit our website at www.comop.org.