MEET OUR EXECUTIVE STAFF

Ari Velez‘s extensive experience in accounting spans over 40 years, making her a highly experienced professional in the field. She has specifically dedicated 15 years of her career to TLC as Director of Finance, where she has gained an in-depth understanding of the company’s operations and accounting processes.

Ari oversees all aspects of the accounting cycle, including payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable. She is fully responsible for handling billing and reconciliation, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in financial transactions.

Ari’s role extends beyond day-to-day accounting tasks. She also develops performas and matrices for both new and existing clients, providing valuable financial insights and analysis. Additionally, Ari offers operational advice to the CEO on various issues, leveraging her expertise to contribute to the company’s decision-making processes.
Ari plays a crucial role in shaping the company’s strategy and future. Her input and recommendations are valued when it comes to strategic planning and ensuring the long-term success of the organization.

Overall, Ari is known for her exceptional efficiency, focus, and knowledge in the field of accounting. Her honesty and integrity make her a trusted professional, capable of handling complex financial matters and providing valuable guidance to the company.

Kira Williman is a dedicated professional with a passion for improving the lives of individuals with special needs. With over 30 years of experience in the field of social services, she has made significant contributions to the community through her work and advocacy.

Kira’s journey in the field began when she wrote policy for the state of Ohio, and helped develope Ohio Works First. She then served as a support coordinator in Arizona, where she provided crucial assistance to individuals with special needs and their families. Her commitment to providing personalized care led her to open her heart and home, inviting an individual with special needs to live with her in an adult developmental home.

In 2010, Kira’s vision and determination led her to establish Ability, specialized day services for special needs adults in Arizona. Over the course of 12 successful years, Ability has become a haven for individuals with disabilities, offering comprehensive support, a nurturing environment, and opportunities for personal growth. Under Kira’s guidance, Ability has become a shining example of compassionate care and community integration. In 2023, Ability was placed in the caring hands of Doug Kaplan, with Kira continuing to oversee program operations.

Kira Williman’s unwavering dedication to the field of social services, combined with her wealth of experience, has transformed the lives of many individuals with special needs. Her ongoing commitment to making a difference and creating an educational, safe, and fun enviornment continues to inspire those around her and serves as a beacon of hope for the entire community.

Amanda-Jo Toro is an experienced social services professional who has dedicated her career to helping others. With a background in management and a passion for working with the special needs community, Amanda-Jo has become an invaluable asset to the team at Ability.

Beginning her journey in social services in 2011, Amanda-Jo quickly rose to the position of DTA Coordinator at the Dewey location, where she excelled for several years. Now, as the Director of Program Services, Amanda-Jo oversees various programs and services designed to improve the lives of Ability’s members.

Utilizing her expertise in applied behavioral analysis, Amanda-Jo strives to ensure the success and well-being of each member she serves. Her compassionate approach and strong leadership skills, developed through her management experience in various locations, make her a beloved figure among the members at Ability.

Outside of her professional life, Amanda-Jo enjoys spending quality time with her loving husband, family, and friends. She finds joy in exploring new places through travel, embarking on hiking adventures, immersing herself in a good book, and organizing memorable events.

Amanda Sanders began working at Ability in 2011 quickly rising into management and program development.  She is an accomplished and passionate individual with a Master’s Degree in criminal justice and psychology. As a college professor in addition to Ability, Amanda’s strategic thinking and problem-solving skills have been key in navigating the challenges and opportunities of working in the special needs sector.

As a coordinator of special needs programs, Amanda successfully oversees various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for those with special needs. Whether it’s organizing recreational activities, facilitating educational workshops, assisting in behavioral supports or collaborating with community organizations, Amanda ensures that all programs are thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs and interests of each participant. Her compassionate nature and commitment to making a difference have driven her to establish a nurturing, educational and fun environment, enabling these individuals to thrive and reach their full potential.

Combining her knowledge of the special needs community with her leadership abilities, she was able to shape policies, initiatives, and programs that further enhanced the quality of care and support provided.

Ashlynn Williman began her time at Ability in 2014.  As a Human Resources Specialist, she brings a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge to her role, stemming from her early career assisting individuals with special needs in gaining employment skills and achieving independence.

Ashlynn’s journey began as a Group Supported Employment Coordinator, where she played a vital role in helping individuals with diverse abilities develop essential employment skills and overcome barriers to gainful employment. In this role, she fostered a supportive and inclusive environment, tailoring strategies to meet each person’s specific needs and abilities.

Ashlynn’s passion for empowering individuals, combined with her training and knowledge of Human Resources, enables her to play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive work environment where every employee is valued and given opportunities to thrive.

Alec Williman began his time at Ability in 2014.  

Alec’s journey is deeply rooted in personal experience, having grown up in a family who provided ADH services for special needs member’s and parent’s who started Ability. From an early age, he learned the importance of acceptance, inclusion, and the power of fostering an environment that nurtures and supports individuals with diverse abilities. This upbringing forged an unbreakable connection to the special needs community, which serves very beneficial to our member’s today.

Jennifer has been with Ability since 2015, and is a dedicated and empathetic professional who serves as a Day Treatment Adult Coordinator. With a genuine passion for helping others, Jennifer is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges.

What sets Jennifer apart is her unique perspective and personal connection to the special needs community. Growing up with a family member who has a special need has given her a deep understanding and first hand knowledge of the challenges faced by individuals and their families. This personal experience has fueled their unwavering desire to advocate for individuals with special needs, ensuring they receive the support and resources they require to thrive.

Romana is a dedicated and compassionate coordinator of day treatment programs for adults, and their personal experiences have profoundly influenced their professional journey. Having firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by individuals with special needs, Romana brings a unique perspective to their role.

Growing up with a family member who has a special need, Romana developed a deep understanding of the importance of creating environments that foster growth, independence, and overall well-being. These formative experiences ignited a passion within them to make a significant impact in the lives of others facing similar circumstances.