Susan Rush

Executive Director
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Susan joined The Arc Community Advocates in May of 2016.  She brings over 15 years of non-profit and business administrative leadership experience that will contribute to the Arc’s mission to provide advocacy and community connection services for individuals with developmental  and intellectual disabilities. “This is a great opportunity to continue the vital work of The Arc Community Advocates and to look for new ways to  partner and broaden the inclusive opportunities and choices of those we serve”, Rush said “the more we can reduce barriers and connect  individuals, the more independent the individual  and healthier the community will be.”

Beverly McBrien, LMSW

Director of Advocacy
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Beverly brings fifteen years of experience as a school social worker.  As a school social worker she employed a wide variety of assessments, interventions and strategies to remove barriers to learning and promote active student participation in the general education curriculum. She brings experience conducting behavior assessments, developing behavior plans and coaching for students to reach their goals. As a special education advocate she sits beside parents at all kinds of meetings offering support and helping to focus discussions on the needs of the student. Her favorite part of the job is connecting with kids and their parents through conversations about their individual learning profiles, interests and future.

LaTaynia Conant

Marketing & Communications Coordinator
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LaTaynia has over 10 years of non-profit experience, specializing in event planning and management, social media marketing and maintaining large databases including data entry and reporting. In her experience she has helped raise thousands of dollars for non-profits through an Annual Auction, Annual Golf Scramble, Luncheons, and many other events. LaTaynia has always worked in a non-profit whose focus has been community inclusion which is why having her at The Arc Community Advocates will help us achieve our mission. 

Annie Gaertner

Individual & Family Advocate
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Annie joined The Arc Community Advocates on January 16, 2018. She has extensive knowledge of community resources, and has experience advocating for families that are in need. Additionally, Annie has a long history working with children in Special Education, and adults with Mental Health diagnosis. Annie has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Health Education and Promotion from Central Michigan University. In her spare time, Annie is an accomplished musician, performing in local concert bands and theatre pit orchestras. She enjoys spending time with her family, attending music festivals, and thrift shopping.