Biography
Meet the Executive Director – Annice Knapp, MA Education
Annice has 8+ years experience providing innovative services and advocacy for IDD/MI (individuals with an intellectual/ developmental disabilities who concurrently experience a mental health condition). She brings a track record of leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement. Annice worked from ground up starting as a DSP (Direct Support Professional) to managing 5 group homes and 1- day program for adults. She served as a Clinical for over 5 group homes in South Jersey caring for the whole person, a continuum of physical, emotional, and mental support for children and adults. She also helped support people with disabilities engage in community-based activities based on preferences, wants, needs and health concerns.
In her own words, “I started out wanting to work with pre-school to elementary aged children but realizing I wanted to expand to working with all ages, including adults. I decided after I received my Master degree in Elementary Education that I wanted to be certified in Special Education. I wanted to help with Special needs and make a difference in their lives. Instead of getting certified I was given the homes with different needs, such as high-needs medical, severe behavioral and mental health. I managed a day program with approximately 40 clients who lived in residential group homes, schools and community. I continue to work and evolve helping children and families integrate within their homes, and environment. With extra kindness, love and support they can live their best quality of life. They are working and volunteering in our communities, advocating and educating in presentations and conferences. Their desire is simple, to live a happy life and to be treated fairly which we are all entitled to as human beings. They have goals, dreams, aspirations like everyone. They just need a little more support from time to time (doesn’t everyone?) I am here to help them. I also believe it takes a village; so, let’s do this together.”
I look forward to the challenges of tomorrow and wish success for the individuals we serve at Gemmer Group Home.