Hi! My name is Samantha Gores (Sam for short) and I
am the new Youth Transition Specialist at Independence Inc.! I started in October, and on my first day
attended the annual Independent Living Fair. Now, that was an introduction!
I’ve enjoyed my brief time here and have spent a lot of it getting to know my
amazing co-workers, preparing to provide youth transition classes, as well as
studying the Independent Living Movement, disability history, and really, anything
I could get my hands on! I am thrilled to be
part of the Independence team and look forward to using my
skills and creativity to help teach youth how to lead more independent
lives.
I am a Minot
native and have attended both Minot High School and Minot State University. I
completed my BA in Psychology and English at MSU, and am now enrolled in
Capella University’s online MS in Mental Health Counseling program. I truly
love learning, and I find opportunities to learn wherever I am. I enjoy
spending my spare time with my boyfriend, Josh, and our two dogs, Karl and
Maddy. I also like reading, listening to music, and riding (not driving)
motorcycles.
I’ve spent
most of my working life in restaurants, which has enhanced my helpful and
friendly nature. But my position as a Direct Support Professional with children
and adolescents with disabilities has been the most influential for my personal
and career goals. I am passionate about working with adolescents of all
abilities. I am beyond excited to work with youth in supporting their
transitions from high school to adulthood and independence.