Leadership Profile: Maria Bosch, Manager of Resident Services Helps Residents Thrive
Pictured right to left: Michael, SLS Mark, Kevin, Maria, Russell, and SLS Eric outside of HOPE on Bacarro
HOPE is proud to present this leadership profile on Maria Bosch, Manager of Resident Services and Quality. Over the past three years, Maria has created and implemented HOPE’s Housing+ Services Program. HOPE’s Housing+ Services Program increases housing opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Additionally, we assist individuals in obtaining housing assistance as needed. This includes providing direct support and assistance with activities associated with an individual’s preparation for, and transition to, housing and to support individuals to maintain their housing once secured.
With ten years of experience as a case manager at Lanterman Regional Center, followed by nine years as a manager, Maria went on to dedicate herself to the Southern California Integrated Living Project. At North LA Regional Center, she oversaw the adult units at San Fernando Valley and supervised all the support staff in the area, while also monitoring the revenue received through Medicaid reimbursable programs. Under Maria's direction, she oversaw the de-population of developmental centers and laid the foundation for resources for individuals leaving developmental services.
Every individual is unique, and what works for one person will not necessarily work for another. Therefore, when it comes to communicating and finding solutions, flexibility and a willingness to adapt are essential core values. This is particularly true when it comes to negotiating suitable living arrangements for individuals with disabilities. Maria's expertise was employed at Southern California Integrated Living Project, where she worked hard to develop resources for individuals such as day programs, work, medical, psychiatric and behavioral health support. Additionally, she emphasized partnering with community services to ensure the provision of the appropriate types of support that best suited everyone’s needs.
She demonstrated that the recipe for success lies in people's willingness to communicate, be adaptable, and understand that decisions must be made individually. The key is to sit down and listen to both sides of the argument, expressing each person's viewpoint and giving them space to feel heard. Empathy and soft skills, such as the ability to build relationships, are critical traits required to develop a conducive living environment for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Maria and Michael in a resident meeting.
According to Maria, “working with individuals to help them negotiate conflict and cope with challenges is an essential aspect of Housing Services.” Supportive Living Services working with residents plays a vital role in managing finances, shopping, cooking, doctor's appointments, etc. However, when it comes to managing roommate relationships, the Housing Services team's expertise comes into play. Maria's belief in partnering with SLS staff and keeping them aware of what is happening with Housing Services ensures all parties are on the same page and working in harmony. Additionally, family and advocates should be partnering with the staff to create a conducive living environment.
The Asset Management team is helpful when there are physical challenges in the home that need to be addressed. As Maria states, “One cannot assume people have no challenges based on their appearance or behavior. Therefore, always be nice, and remember that everyone has their struggles.” Maria's focus is not only on essential bathroom modifications that enhance an individual's independence but also on other small changes in the home environment that will make a big difference, like automatic light switches, handles on cabinets instead of knobs, or pull-out shelves, and cabinets for individuals who have fine motor skills challenges. All these changes are essential in improving individuals' independence in their home environment.
Maria's leadership skills and housing service expertise highlights her ability to negotiate and develop unique living solutions for individuals with disabilities. Her personal experience and empathy teach us the need to always strive to put ourselves in someone else's shoes while maintaining flexibility, empathy, and treating others with respect and kindness. Her services are invaluable, and anyone interested in setting up services and enhancing individual independence in home environments should reach out to Maria. Ultimately, the work done by Housing Services is critical since it ensures that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive optimal care and support.