Executive Highlight

Joanne Alicea

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Executive Director, Ability Tree First Coast, Inc
Business Founded: 2018
Phone: (904) 494-8583
Email: [email protected]

Address:
6350 FL-16A
St Augustine, Florida 32092

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How long have you been in your industry?10 years
Why did you choose your industry?I have a son with special needs and seeing the lack of resources to support this population, I found it to be paramount that I step in and work towards filling the gaps.
Who are your typical clients?Individuals with disabilities, special needs families, the general public who want to be educated in disability etiquette, as well as businesses and churches that want to be trained in the area of disabilities.
What do you like best about being in this industry?The incredible satisfaction of knowing I'm making a positive impact on a population that is marginalized.
What are common problems you see?The most common problem is awareness that there is a problem. Most people don't realize that 10-20% of any community have individuals with disabilities. People with disabilities is the largest minority group. This leads to another problem being that the community doesn't truly understanding the need/value of supporting an organization like Ability Tree First Coast through their finances, time (volunteering), talents/skills.
What advice/tips do you have for clients?Be aware that the community you live in has 10-20% of the population with disabilities, many being "invisible" disabilities. Be educated in the world of disabilities so it's not an uncomfortable topic of discussion. Get involved with organizations that support this vulnerable population so that inclusion will be the standard, not the exception.
When is your busy season?Mainly summer, but we have programming all year
What keeps you up at night?Finding ways to make sure that my nonprofit continues to thrive, so even if I were not its leader, it can continue being a strong support in this community.
How do you market yourself to grow/expand your business?By developing one-on-one relationships, finding opportunities to do public interviews, and advertising.
How involved are you in the community?I run a nonprofit full time that works with the disability community. I am in Ministry at a local church that is heavily involved in community outreach.
What is your favorite not for profit or charity?Ability Tree First Coast
What advice would you give to someone thinking of getting into this business?Study your community and know what the needs are. Don't reinvent the wheel. Collaborate with other organizations that are already doing aspects of support in the disability community. Remember that the process is a marathon, not a sprint. One last thing, "be Gumby!" You have to be flexible when working with this demographics.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?Traveling, movie nights & game nights with family/friends, going to the beach, and white water rafting

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