It was back in 2008 when Charmaine Solomon and two other mothers with youngsters “graduating” from high school discovered that there “was nothing in North Texas that provided quality, full-time continued education for their children’s unique needs.”
Thanks to the moms rallying the community, My Possibilities was established in June 2008 to help adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) to “have a chance at education and opportunities to develop their untapped abilities and potential to shine.”
But Charmaine wasn’t satisfied with just helping to launch the program. For nearly 14 years, she has served as chairman of the board. And what a time it’s been.
In addition to My Possibilities merging with LaunchAbility in 2018, “a brand new, college-style campus with high visibility in Plano with plans for future development to include dorms, a communications center and much more” took shape.
Thanks to her efforts and MP supporters, the agency “has grown from serving just 10 HIPsters (Hugely Important People) to more than 600″ through on-campus programs and in community jobs.
This past December, Charmaine transitioned from chairing the MP board of director to being a board member and working with My Possibilities Foundation Director Susan Swan Smith.
According to MP Executive Director Michael Thomas, “Very few people understand the time and effort Charmaine has committed to My Possibilities, our HIPsters, and their families. She has not only been crucial in the growth and success of our organization but to the IDD community across the state and country.”
Succeeding Charmaine is retired Alliance Data senior VP of Corporate Affairs and Chief of Staff Karen Wald, who formerly was on the LaunchAbility board and joined the MP board when the two organizations merged.
According to Charmaine, “Karen Wald and I have worked very closely since 2018. I consider Karen a trusted advisor, friend and an excellent leader. I could not think of a better person to hand the Chair role over to. I am very excited to see what Karen’s leadership and professional skills bring to My Possibilities.”
* Photo courtesy of My Possibilities ** Photo provided by My Possibilities