Employee Owner of the Month: October 2022

Oct 01, 2022

Introducing IPMG's Employee Owner of the Month of October: Melanie Smith-Sanders!

Melanie was nominated for this award by an individual she serves. The nomination stated "Melanie is one of the best case managers I've had in more than 20 years of having case managers for my children (since the late 90s) and myself (since 2007). Melanie is always personable and efficient. She goes out of her way to make sure that we have what we need and takes a sincere interest in us as persons. I truly believe we're not just a "case" to Melanie. She is extremely knowledgeable and is always up to date on relevant regulations and policies."

Melanie writes: "Hello! I began in this field about 25 years ago when I was in college and worked in a supervised group home as a direct support staff and then a home manager. After obtaining my undergraduate degree from Ball State University, I worked sometime in the nursing home field at a couple different nursing homes. I realized nursing home social services was not for me. I then was hired at Meridian Services and then Aspire Indiana for the HIV Care Coordination program. There I was a case manager and then went on to the testing/education component of HIV/Hepatitis C. I was a supervisor for the program until I decided to move on after being in that field for about7 years. I then did a small stint at the Muncie YWCA working at the Residential Coordinator for their homeless shelter. While working there, I obtained my Masters from Indiana Tech in Organizational Leadership. I then had my youngest child and decided to be a stay-at-home mom. That lasted for a few months and then realized I had to work! I was blessed to find the job posting for IPMG and was interviewed. I was hired a few months after my interview in 2014. I can not imagine working any place else. This year, I celebrated 8 years at IPMG. The best part of this job is learning from the individuals I serve. I strive to be as happy and determined as they are. I love watching the individuals I serve met their goals no matter how big or small they are. We all strive and we all have goals. The individuals touch my heart every day I work with them. I have seen some of my individuals grow from school aged to young adults who are able to obtain employment, obtain their driver's license, buy a car and move out on their own!

I am married to my wonderful husband and we will celebrate 20 years of marriage next March. I am a mother of three girls (Alexis, Shelby and Gabby). I am a grandmother of a two year old girl, Marley. I am a dog mom of a German Shepard, Duke and a Lab, Sampson. We started caring for a stray cat in September 2020 and she still hangs around (just comes in to eat). Gabby named her Maya. We love to go camping and taking trips together. We love going to the pool in the summer. Summer is my favorite season!!!

I truly love working for IPMG. I feel that the this is a calling, not just a job. I was placed here to ensure the individuals I serve are treated fairly and are living their best lives!"

Congratulations, Melanie! We are so blessed to have you on our team!