"Nurturing individuals to grow, strengthen, and flourish."
We’ve been hard at work transforming challenges into opportunities, and we’re excited to share what’s new. From expanding services to strengthening our team and mission, this issue highlights the growth, resilience, and partnerships that are shaping our next chapter—together with you.
EIS Closure As of June 30th, we closed our Early Intervention (EI) services. This was not an easy decision. EI has been a meaningful part of our mission, and we’re […]
LifeROOTS, Inc. Auction Empower Adults with Disabilities Bid in Our Online Charity Auction! We are having an online auction from July 3rd through the 10th! View and Bid on Givebutter […]
LifeROOTS is dedicated to providing employment opportunities for Veterans and individuals with developmental disabilities by offering hiring preferences for those who meet the qualifications, education, and experience required for a position. We prioritize competitive integrated employment while also offering non-competitive hiring options for eligible candidates. Veterans must provide a DD-214 form, and individuals with developmental disabilities are typically referred through the New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) or Ticket to Work (TTW). LifeROOTS ensures a fair and supportive hiring process, including reasonable accommodations to help individuals succeed. If you’d like to see the entire policy, click here.
Professional Background:
Carol Epstein brings 40 years of experience in the financial industry, having held various roles in branch banking, from teller to branch manager. In the last 15 years of her career, she specialized in operations and compliance, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures.
Education:
Graduate of CBA Executive Banking School.
Involvement with LifeROOTS:
As a parent of a past LifeROOTS participant, Carol joined the board to support the organization’s mission of promoting independence and providing essential services to underserved and special needs communities.
Caregiver Coaching model – is an approach in early intervention (EI) that equips caregivers with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to support their child’s learning and development through everyday routines and interactions. By collaborating with EI providers, caregivers gain confidence and competence in addressing their child’s unique needs.
This model works best because it empowers caregivers—those most involved in a child’s daily life—to integrate learning opportunities into regular routines, fostering consistent and meaningful development. It focuses on individualized guidance, problem-solving, and reflective practices, ensuring families feel supported and capable of facilitating their child’s progress.
Step 1: Identify the Items to Donate
Step 2: Contact LifeROOTS, Inc.
Step 3: Arrange Donation Drop-Off
Step 4: Prepare a Donation Receipt
Step 5: Deliver the Donation
Step 6: Stay Connected
This process not only supports LifeROOTS but also aligns with their mission to provide meaningful resources to people with extra needs.
For questions or more information, you can contact LifeROOTS directly. This ensures you have all the guidance you need and helps them prepare to honor your legacy gift properly.
Many companies offer corporate matching gift programs, allowing you to double or even triple the impact of your donation to LifeROOTS, Inc. Follow these steps to see if your employer will match your contribution:
By completing these steps, you can increase your contribution’s impact, helping LifeROOTS, Inc. support individuals in our community. Thank you for your support!
By participating in volunteer grant programs, you’ll make an even bigger impact on your favorite nonprofit organization!
With millions already donated to nonprofits through this program, you’ll not only feed your family but help your neighbors gain independence and improve their quality of life.
Step 1: Sign up with Smith’s
Step 2: Enroll in the Inspiring Donations program
Step 3: Choose LifeROOTS
Step 4: Shop as usual
Step 5: Spread the word!
For more information, visit smithsfoodanddrug.com/inspire or call 1(888) 876-4847 (option 3, then option 3 again).
Title/Role:
Operations Manager – Commercial Association of REALTORS® New Mexico
Professional Background:
George brings a wealth of experience in operations and administrative management. As Operations Manager for the Commercial Association of REALTORS® New Mexico, he collaborates with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to implement policies and support the association’s strategic goals. His previous roles in executive assistance, operations management, and healthcare logistics demonstrate his ability to lead teams and manage complex projects effectively.
Education:
Pursuing a Degree in Business
Personal Statement:
“I wanted to serve with lifeROOTS because I believe in their mission of helping those with disabilities and want to help further support LifeROOTS’ growth in New Mexico.”
Hobbies/Interests:
George enjoys spending time with his wife and pets, fishing, and cheering for Pittsburgh sports teams.
Title/Role:
President of El Valle Mutual Domestic Water Association
Professional Background:
Edward’s professional journey spans roles as a Medical Sales Manager, CEO with the Water Utility Authority, and working with an insurance company. His leadership extends into multiple sectors, showcasing his versatility and expertise.
Education:
Personal Statement:
“Make a difference or move out of the way!”
Hobbies/Interests:
Edward enjoys hunting and is actively engaged in community activism.
Title/Role:
Retired
Professional Background:
Maggie dedicated over 25 years to the City of Albuquerque’s Therapeutic Recreation Programs and spent more than 3 years as a Special Education teacher with APS. Her long-standing commitment to the community continues to shine through her involvement.
Education:
BS in Education from the University of New Mexico
Personal Statement:
“I’ve been on the board for 7 or 8 years. I love the commitment to quality and the range of supports for families with extra needs!”
Hobbies/Interests:
Maggie has a passion for community gardening, enjoying the process of planting, preparing soil, and watching others delight in fresh produce.
Title/Role:
Independent Agent – Colonial Life
Professional Background:
With 16 years of experience in branch and business banking, Mike has transitioned his passion for supporting families into the insurance industry. His dedication to community involvement is reflected in his active participation in several board appointments and committees.
Personal Statement:
“After nearly 2 years serving on the board, I am encouraged by the progress I’ve seen and excited for the potential ahead of us.”
Hobbies/Interests:
Mike enjoys spending time as a dad, honing his skills in bladesmithing and metal craft art.
Professional Background:
Born and raised in Albuquerque, Olyvia Lee has dedicated her career to enhancing community recreation and education initiatives. With extensive experience in coordinator and management roles within the City of Albuquerque, she now oversees the Therapeutic Recreation (TR) youth and adult inclusion programs. Olyvia is passionate about developing training for both full-time and part-time staff to increase awareness of access and inclusion issues for people with disabilities across various programs.
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Signed Language Interpreting with a Minor in Special Education
Personal Statement:
“I am thrilled to be a part of an organization that aligns with my values of building community and creating opportunities for people with disabilities to follow their dreams.”
Hobbies/Interests:
A creative individual, Olyvia enjoys silversmithing, reading, and staying active in her free time.
Professional Background:
I have over 12 years of experience in the Early Childhood Education field with a diverse background. After earning my BA in Child Development, I began my career at Youth Development Inc (YDI) as a teacher. Over the years, I progressed through roles including Family Advocate, Disabilities Coordinator, and Preschool Center Director. Currently, I serve as the Senior Associate Director, overseeing our home visitation and NM State PreK programs. Alongside my professional journey, I completed my Masters in Early Childhood Education, further enhancing my expertise in the field.
Education:
Personal Statement:
“Drawing from my background in Early Childhood Education and my personal interests, I am driven to support LifeROOTS’ mission of offering early intervention and developing job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. I look forward to leveraging my professional and personal experiences to support LifeROOTS cultivate inclusive and supportive opportunities for individuals throughout all stages of life.”
Hobbies/Interests:
On weekends, if you see me, I’ll probably be riding my bike down a mountain or out on a soccer field. I enjoy staying active, reading books, and discovering new hidden gem restaurants and coffee shops in and around Albuquerque.
Professional Background
Greg Cimino has a diverse professional background, having served as a Register of EC Council University, Adjunct Faculty of Brown Mackie College, and Adult Basic Education Tutor at Youth Development Inc. His extensive experience in education and leadership has equipped him with a broad skill set and a deep understanding of human services and resource management.
Education
Personal Statement
“Wanting to enhance my leadership skills and grow my network is what piqued my interest in becoming a board member of LifeROOTS. LifeROOTS has such a highly respected history, that I am honored to be associated with a quality organization, and eager to contribute to the mission of the organization.”
Hobbies/Interests
In his personal time, Greg enjoys spending time with his children and grandchildren, fishing, and is a sports car enthusiast.
Here at LifeROOTS, we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. In alignment with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), we welcome and encourage applications from individuals with disabilities. We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees to support their ability to perform essential job functions and fully participate in our workplace. For more information, please refer to our full ADA Policy document linked here.
The individual must have a developmental disability and mental retardation or a specific related condition. Related conditions are limited to cerebral palsy, autism (including Asperger Syndrome), seizure disorder, chromosomal disorders (e.g., Downs), syndrome disorders, inborn errors of metabolism, and developmental disorders of brain formation.
Developmental disability is defined as a severe chronic disability, other than mental illness that:
LifeROOTS is committed to equal employment opportunity, ensuring a workplace free from harassment or discrimination based on race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics. We uphold this policy in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, compensation, and termination. LifeROOTS will investigate allegations of discrimination promptly and confidentially, taking corrective action when necessary. We also make reasonable accommodations for employees’ disabilities, religious beliefs, and other needs, as required by law, unless it would cause undue hardship. Retaliation against individuals who report or assist with investigations is strictly prohibited. To view the full Equal Employment Opportunity Policy, click here.
LifeROOTs Inc. operates its services, social enterprises, and programs without regard to disability, race, color, and/or national origin in accordance with Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). To find out more about our nondiscrimination obligations, to file a complaint, or to request this information in another language, please contact us at: LifeROOTs Inc., 1111 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107.
To file a complaint, for dissatisfaction or concern about the quality of services, actions, or lack of action by LifeROOTS please refer to this procedure – Complaint & Grievance Procedures.
To file a complaint for transit-related incidents, please refer to the procedure – Title VI/ADA Complaint Procedure.