Staff

Executive Director

I brought my extensive experience as a medical technician to Independence Empowerment Center (IEC) twenty years ago. Initially, my career at IEC began with a temporary administrative position, but I quickly found my passion and purpose within the organization. Over the years, I have become a key player in the realm of Medicaid Waivers, helping countless individuals navigate the complexities of the system to receive the support they need.

My journey at IEC saw a significant milestone when I transitioned into the community action specialist position. One of my most impactful projects in this role was developing an event centered around the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). I spearheaded the creation of the first ADA fair, an initiative that has grown into a beloved annual event, raising awareness and celebrating the rights and achievements of people with disabilities.

As the senior member of the Elderly and Disabled Consumer Directed Personal Assistants team, I play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals can remain in their homes and avoid nursing home placements. My dedication to this cause is further demonstrated by my training as a Medicaid Mentor, where I guide and support others through the Medicaid process.

Advocacy is at the heart of my work. I am a passionate advocate for people with disabilities of all types and for individuals of all ages. My commitment to this cause has been unwavering throughout my twenty years of service at IEC. Today, I am proud to hold the position of Executive Director, where I continue to lead and inspire our team to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.

Assistant Executive Director | Service Facilitator, CCC+ Waiver

I have been with Independence Empowerment Center (IEC) for two years, where I serve as the Assistant Executive Director and provide Service Facilitation for individuals enrolled in the CCC+ Waiver. In both roles, I am committed to supporting members through consumer-directed services that promote independence, dignity, and quality of life.

I have a strong passion for helping individuals in need and am deeply dedicated to ensuring that members within the disability community are treated with respect, fairness, and compassion. Advocacy and accountability guide my work, and I strive to make a meaningful, positive impact in the lives of those we serve.

IEC Administrative Director

Najat Igri has been working with the Independence Empowerment Center for 11 years and always strives to help IEC’s consumers and to make a little bit of difference in people's lives. She is responsible for assisting the Executive Director, with all administrative duties to run and maintain an efficient office. Her role to oversee daily operations, compliance, human resources, and strategic planning ensuring that the organization’s mission is delivered efficiently and with compassion. Najat leadership has contributed to streamlined internal systems, increased funding efficiency, and improved staff development. Her strengths include sincerely caring about people and making every effort to help them. Najat likes to finish her work efficiently and smoothly. Her wish for our consumers is to live their best lives and having all assistance necessary. Her favorite hobbies are traveling and reading.

Independent Living Advocate

My name is Shannon Straughn. I am an Independent Living Advocate, which means that I can help our consumers with resume writing, applying for jobs housing information, utility bills, etc. I have been with Independence Empowerment Center for 10 years. My job allows me to help people in their time of need which is a great thing in itself but what I really enjoy is that, even if just a little, I get to make a difference in someone’s life and make life a little easier for them. One of my strengths is that I am very relatable which makes it easier to assist our clients. If I could grant one wish to my consumers it would be for them to have access to all the resources that could help them, especially when it comes to housing. In my free time I love to listen to music and go to concerts. I also love to travel and see new places around the world with my family.

Service Facilitator | Independent Living Specialist

Brandie Jones is a Service Facilitator (SF) and Independent Living (IL) Specialist.  Brandie believes the best part of her job is the opportunity to support Consumers in maintaining their independence.  Brandie has a son with severe intellectual disabilities, which gives her the ability to understand and relate to her Consumers.  Her most important responsibility as a mother is ensuring her son can access his home and community as independently as possible, maintaining his respect and dignity.  She brings that same fire with her to work.  Brandie isn't all work.  In her free time, she enjoys playing, coaching, and watching football.

Service Facilitator | Independence Living Advocate

My name is Erika Reyes, and I am a Service Facilitator and Independence Living Advocate at Independence Empowerment Center, Inc.

In my role as a Service Facilitator and Independence Living Advocate, I assist consumers by providing guidance on how to apply for and maintain the CCC Plus Waiver. This support helps individuals manage their day-to-day activities and meet other personal needs.

Previously, I worked as an Optometric Technician and Unlicensed Optician for five years. This position allowed me to work with patients of all ages, providing me the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of individuals. I particularly enjoyed helping people choose the right eyewear to support their daily living and independence.

In my free time, I enjoy going to the movies, listening to music, and reading.

Service Facilitator | Independence Living Advocate

Biography coming soon.