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Amy Laboy
Senior Director of Programs at Greater Chicago Food Depository
Professional Background
Amy Laboy has established an impressive career in the field of therapeutic recreation and community services, blending her background in communication disorders with her passion for helping individuals through recreational therapy. Currently, she serves as the Director of Programs and Services at the Greater Chicago Food Depository, where she leads initiatives aimed at enhancing community outreach and food accessibility. In this prominent role, Amy is dedicated to developing innovative programs that meet the needs of various populations, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and health in the community.
Over the years, Amy has accumulated a wealth of experience at the Anixter Center, a well-respected organization focused on empowering people with disabilities. Throughout her tenure there, she held several key leadership positions, including Director of External Relations Operations and Volunteer Services. In this role, she was instrumental in enhancing the organization's visibility and engagement within the community. Her leadership helped foster partnerships and elevate the impact of volunteer services, which are essential to the Center's mission.
Before stepping into the Director role at Anixter Center, Amy began her journey there as the Assistant Director of Training. This foundational position allowed her to cultivate her skills in training and development, which she later translated into managerial roles within the organization. As the Manager of Adult Community Transition Program and Manager of Social and Recreational Services, she focused on creating enriching experiences aimed at transitioning adults into more independent lifestyles while providing vital socialization opportunities.
Amy’s experience with recreational services began early in her career when she worked as Summer Staff at Bradford Woods. This role ignited her passion for therapeutic recreation, ultimately prompting her to pursue advanced studies in the field.
Education and Achievements
Academically, Amy Laboy pursued her Bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders from Valparaiso University, which laid the groundwork for her understanding of the complexities surrounding communication and its impact on social interaction. This background is invaluable in her current role, where effective communication is crucial to building relationships and addressing community needs. Continuing her education, Amy obtained her Master of Science (MS) degree in Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy from Indiana University Bloomington, earning recognition for her commitment to applying therapeutic techniques in recreational settings.
Through her educational and professional endeavors, Amy has developed a unique skill set that not only enhances her work but also contributes to the wider community's quality of life. Her drive for personal and professional growth demonstrates her commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in her field.
Contributions and Community Impact
Amy Laboy’s contributions to the community through her professional roles cannot be overstated. As the current leader of programs and services at the Greater Chicago Food Depository, she implements strategies that expand access to food resources, particularly for underserved populations. Under her guidance, the organization has enhanced its outreach programs, ensuring that more families receive the nourishment they need.
At Anixter Center, Amy's leadership and vision led to transformative changes in the way services were delivered. She was pivotal in redesigning volunteer engagement strategies, which helped cultivate a more robust volunteer workforce dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities. Her contributions extend beyond traditional leadership; she consistently seeks to innovate programming that addresses the evolving needs of the community.
AMy's approach to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for all individuals involved has earned her respect in the field of community service. Her dedication to empowering those with disabilities reflects her deep commitment to social equity and justice, inspiring others to engage meaningfully in community service.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Amy Laboy is a well-respected professional in the fields of therapeutic recreation and nonprofit leadership. Equipped with a solid educational foundation and a diverse range of experiences, she has significantly impacted the communities she serves. With her ongoing commitment to advocacy, community service, and program development, Amy continues to be a driving force for positive change in Chicago and beyond. Her journey is a testament to the vital role that passion, education, and service can play in transforming lives and communities.
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