Boone Center, Inc. (BCI)—a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of adults with disabilities through employment—has announced the appointments of Michele Bowen and Kenda Curativo as Directors of Competitive Employment for Illinois and St. Charles County, respectively. In these roles, Bowen and Curativo will lead initiatives to secure and sustain competitive, integrated employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Bowen joined BCI in 2023 as the Transportation Manager. Following the Illinois Department of Human Services’ approval of BCI’s expansion into the Metro East, she was promoted to her new role in July. Bowen’s background in education and nonprofit management is extensive, beginning her career as a Special Education Teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Education from Missouri Baptist University. Before her time at BCI, Bowen supported individuals with disabilities through various roles at Human Support Services in Waterloo, IL.

“Having a son with an intellectual disability has profoundly shaped my commitment to this work,” said Bowen. “I take great joy in empowering individuals with the tools and opportunities to reach their full potential and find work that is meaningful to them.”

Curativo brings eight years of experience in the disability employment field to her new role at BCI. Before joining the organization in July, she had dedicated her entire career to the Center for Specialized Services in St. Louis, where she started as a Vocational Evaluator and was later promoted to Director of Career Development. Curativo is also certified as a Work Incentive Practitioner through Cornell University.

“Every individual, regardless of their differences, deserves to be fully included and valued in all aspects of society,” said Curativo. “I believe in creating environments where diversity is not only accepted but celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.”

“These appointments mark a significant step forward in our efforts to expand support for adults with disabilities who want to work in integrated settings and earn competitive wages,” said Matt Jannings, BCI’s Chief Program Officer of Employment Services. “Michele and Kenda bring a wealth of experience and passion to their roles, and we’re excited to see the positive impact they’ll have on the communities they serve.”

For more information on competitive employment services from BCI, visit https://boonecenter.com/competitive-employment.