In 1999, Corrine came to NCIA because a friend referred her to the agency. She had previously worked in nursing homes and hospitals with the developmentally disabled, and was looking for a new opportunity. “When I first came to NCIA, I was a Residential Counselor in one of the homes,” she says. “It was a challenge but fun; actually I was amazed how much fun it was.” Corrine enjoyed being in the homes with the residents, making meals, and working with clients individually. This interaction led her to pursue training as a job coach, a position she holds today.

Corrine loves her job as an art instructor with NCIA Adult Career Development Services. In preparation for her class, Corrine learns different arts and crafts projects and then teaches them to her clients. “I love being able to teach them new things,” she says. “It amazes me how quickly they pick it up, and how much it really relaxes them.”

Professionally speaking: “NCIA properly trains its staff to work professionally with our clients, which is very important considering we are working with clients with serious behaviors.”

Personally speaking: “Recently I moved and my daily commute is longer, but I can’t even consider leaving NCIA to find a job closer to my home. I like this job and I’m too attached to our clients.”

NCIA is: excellence, teamwork

• Dana Ackerley, Director of Education
• Robinette Cager, Human Resources Assistant
• Cynthia Hodge, Residential Director
• K, NCIA Student
• Latasha Nelson, Client
• Johnny Pilgrim, Operations Manager
• Tom Scott, Executive Director
• Corrine Waters, Art Instructor