Join us on January 30th at 6pm for an enlightening discussion as we unravel the complexities of housing options. Our panel of experts, including Jen Murphree from Rainbow Acres, Donald Harrington in social work, Coley Schaan Amaro from Luna Azul, and Megan Akens from DDD will share insights to demystify the process.

We understand the importance of your questions and encourage active participation from family members and the community. Together, we will explore the optimal age to embark on this journey, providing a roadmap for what to expect throughout the housing process.

Let’s come together to transform confusion into clarity, creating a foundation for informed decisions and a brighter future for individuals with Down syndrome. Get involved in the conversation, submit your questions and join us in shaping the discussion on housing solutions. Your voice matters in building a community that supports every individual’s unique journey. Save the date!! #HousingWebinar #DownSyndromeJourney #InformedDecisions

In his previous role at My Home LLC, Donald excelled as a Licensing Worker, overseeing the compliance of 12 families with stringent DDD and AHCCCS regulations. He demonstrated exceptional skills in report submission, behavioral treatment planning, and providing critical training to families.

As a Case Manager at Working Alternatives Inc, Donald supervised a caseload of over 26 inmates, offering invaluable support during their transition back into society. This experience honed his ability to navigate complex situations and provide essential resources for successful reintegration.

Donald’s educational background includes a degree in Sociology and Criminology from Missouri State University, showcasing his commitment to understanding the social dynamics that shape our communities.

Beyond professional endeavors, Donald is an active member of the community, serving on boards such as the Page Regional Domestic Violence Center and volunteering with various committees, including the DDD IOC Board for Northern Arizona.

With a wealth of experience, a genuine passion for advocacy, and a proven track record of making a positive impact, Donald brings a unique perspective to the discussion on housing options for individuals with Down syndrome. He also proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1979 to 1983, embodying a spirit of dedication and service.

We are excited to have Donald join us and share his expertise and insights during our upcoming webinar on housing solutions for individuals with Down syndrome.

Jen Murphree was raised in the Southwest by two special educators and has had a lifelong commitment to those with special needs. Her passion is helping families realize their dream for their loved ones. Jen has served adults with special needs in a residential setting since 2001. She previously served as a direct support residential staff member as well as Activities Coordinator at Riverview School on Cape Cod in Massachusetts and as a founding staff member and Personal Finance Coordinator at Casa de Amma in San Juan Capistrano, California.

Jen joined Rainbow Acres in 2013 and served as an Admissions Counselor before becoming Director of Admissions. Jen believes that God has called her to a life of service to individuals with developmental disabilities. Jen received her Bachelor’s degrees in International Affairs and Spanish from Northern Arizona University and her Master’s degree in Leadership from Grand Canyon University. Jen has two sons and a devoted husband who loves to hike in the woods and play games in their spare time.

About Rainbow Acres

Rainbow Acres is a Christian residential community located in the heart of Arizona. As a nonprofit organization founded in 1974, Rainbow Acres is celebrating 50 years of service to neurodiverse adults. The residents are 18+ with a primary diagnosis of a developmental disability. Rainbow Acres is a private-pay organization offering individualized living and health plans. This starts with helping the residents set appropriate goals to stretch and grow in physical and emotional health, education, vocational skills, money management, and semi-independent living. Residents most commonly have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, developmental delay, ADHD, birth hypoxia, bipolar disorder, Asperger’s, anxiety, depression, and other rare disorders.

The milieu needs daily support but is ready to grow in their relationships, self-care, meaningful work, and hobbies like animals, greenhouse gardening, painting, weaving, fine arts, music, and all types of educational opportunities on a ranch-style campus. The residents volunteer within the local community and attend a myriad of events. Residents are coached in the executive functioning, emotional wellness, and life skills they need to succeed in adulthood. Rainbow Acres advocates for people throughout their lifespans within an assisted living license. The program includes medical and vocational support both on and off-site.

It’s a place where friends become family, and Rainbow Acres becomes home.

Now accepting applicants for 2024. Rainbowacres.com

Megan Akens

Megan Akens has been at the forefront of affordable housing initiatives as the Affordable Housing Supervisor for the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) since the program’s inception in 2017. Her journey within DDD began in the Central Office, where she contributed significantly as part of the Deputy Assistant Director’s team. Prior to that, Megan played a pivotal role in Quality Assurance, monitoring Developmental Homes and Group Homes while meticulously reviewing incident reports from Qualified Vendor Agencies.

In the last year, the DDD Affordable Housing unit, Megan assisted in successfully securing $1,640,714 in subsidies from various organizations on behalf of 101 DDD members. This accomplishment underscores Megan’s commitment to ensuring accessible housing for individuals within the program.

Megan is equipped with a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Western International University, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management and Spanish from Charter Oak State University. Her educational background speaks to her holistic approach in addressing organizational and community needs.

Megan brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for her work. Her strategic role in the Affordable Housing unit reflects her dedication to empowering individuals and families within the Division of Developmental Disabilities. Megan’s unique perspective and proven track record make her an invaluable asset in the ongoing discussion on housing solutions for individuals with diverse needs.

We look forward to Megan’s continued contributions and insights as we navigate the complex landscape of affordable housing, ensuring that individuals like those within the DDD community have the support they need.