By Staff Writer Daniel Locke
Jenny Terrell, Director of Children’s Services at The Arc of Shelby County, was chosen to be a member of the United Way of Central Alabama’s LEARN United cohort.
A rigorous 12-week program called LEARN United, which stands for leadership education and preparedness for NGOs, aims to improve the leadership abilities of managers from various United Way partner agencies.
Terrell is really proud of the distinction of being chosen since it shows that her efforts are appreciated.
According to Terrell, receiving recognition from the LEARN United leadership cohort is a true honor. It affirms the job that a great number of us in the nonprofit sector undertake every day, frequently in the background, with great dedication and enthusiasm. Being included in this first group indicates that people are taking notice of and supporting our efforts to develop, lead, and serve. It is simultaneously humbling and uplifting.
In addition to the many opportunities Terrell had to hone her professional abilities during the cohort, she also remembers the connections she made.
According to Terrell, the program forced me to think more strategically and develop as a leader who can support the creation of stronger teams and more effect, in addition to being a supervisor. Meeting and forming genuine connections with other leaders from nearby NGOs was one of the experience’s most significant aspects. We all went above and above to truly get to know one another, despite the fact that this was a professional course.
Terrell has been able to contribute to the community through his work with The Arc, especially with children and their families who have intellectual and developmental challenges.
Terrell remarked, “My experience with The Arc of Shelby County has been incredibly meaningful.” I’ve witnessed throughout the years how committed our team is to changing the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and the society at large. I’m honored to be a part of a company that consistently embodies its objective.
Terrell has accumulated a great deal of expertise dealing with impaired youth in her role as director of children’s programs at The Arc. She finds fulfillment in helping them and their families, and she gets to witness the significant results of her labor.
According to Terrell, working with kids is tremendously rewarding, particularly those who have special needs or developmental delays. Every little victory seems significant, whether it’s a toddler learning to speak for the first time or a family becoming more comfortable using resources. Every milestone every inchstone is celebrated. Seeing the potential and resiliency of each child we work with is a delight, and it is an honor to support their families during such a significant period of their life.
In order to better equip herself to improve the lives of the people she serves, Terrell is grateful to everyone who has supported her over her career working with children with disabilities.
Terrell expressed his gratitude to his coworkers at The Arc of Shelby County, who put in a lot of effort every day and never stop motivating him. We would especially want to thank our Executive Director, Jeannine Lyons, for her guidance, encouragement, and faith in career advancement. She has played a crucial role in getting me to this point. I also want to thank the United Way team for planning the workshops and funding the growth of nonprofit leaders, as well as Kathy Boswell and Allie Nanni for producing such an impactful and purposeful leadership experience.
Terrell’s involvement has been beneficial to the Arc and Shelby County overall. That service and dedication to improving the lives of individuals The Arc exists to assist is demonstrated by her selection to LEARN United.
