My Nonprofit Reviews

As we approach the 42nd birthday of Carobell Inc. , I think it is a good time to reflect on how and why it has grown from a dream to one of the top Care Facilities in the United States.
It all started in July 1969 , with two very courageous woman, Virginia Franks and Elizabeth Bell Midgett.. They saw a need and courageously opened their hearts and homes to severely developmentally delayed and medically fragile infants. They provided love and compassion that made these children grow and blossom, many outliving doctor's expectations!
Even though we changed Presidents in 1991, Vanessa Ervin continues to make Carobell,. a family environment and a place the individuals can call home. She inherited the founders vision and enhanced it with out of the box thinking, good leadership, wise financial planning, and a top notched staff. Mrs. Ervin expects excellence from everyone.
She expects the best, she gets the best, and therefore we are the BEST!
One area that makes Carobell unique is the cross training of jobs. This is an excellent strategy in case a person is out for an extended period of time, the company can still function. Another great idea is promotions within the company, this not only encourages individual growth and self enrichment, but it also helps with longevity of our staff. However; I think the main reason for it’s success is because Mrs. Ervin believes in everyone. She believes everyone has potential; from the consumers, to her staff and even me!
When I was asked to serve on the board I questioned why would she want me? I definitely didn't have a financial or business background, but she saw a potential in me that I didn't see. I have an MED background and learned about special needs from the trenches, you could say, because I am a parent of an individual that resides at Carobel. Over the years, I have grown and learned so much since I have been a member of the board. I also see how hard it is to keep an organization like Carobell going on a everyday basis. I know it is hard work, but yet every time I visit I always see such happy faces. Like a family, everyone helps one another and even the smallest accomplishments are recognized. Carobell portrays a beautiful , happy, family environment. Onlookers know that the individuals are well cared for and most importantly loved. We only hire the folks that portray self-less attitudes, are intelligent, and very caring and loving
It saddens me to think that there are still people who are not aware of this wonderful organization. Part of my job is to spread the word. I do so through news articles, and letters to different organizations, internet, and of course the best way is word of mouth. Carobell works too hard to be the “Best Kept Secret in Jacksonville, Hubert, and Moorehead City!!” For more information you can go to www.carobell.org

Sincerely,
Kathleen McMillan
Kathleen McMillan
Carobell Board Chair

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