Rebekah's journey has been marked by resilience and determination. She has faced the unique challenge of a mental health and intellectual/developmental disability dual diagnosis. Despite these obstacles, Rebekah's unwavering spirit has allowed her to make incredible strides in her personal growth and leadership.
Rebekah is an exceptional individual who has not only maximizes her skills and abilities but has also become an incredible advocate for disability issues. Her involvement with Carey Services and Vocational Rehabilitation (Voc Rehab) has been instrumental in enhancing her independence and quality of life. Her journey and dedication to reaching her personal goals, including her utilization of Voc Rehab services and her role in developing a peer mentorship program demonstrate her leadership in not only her journey, but in that of others.
Rebekah's story is one of progression into independence. From her early years in foster care to her adoption, Rebekah's faith journey has been a guiding light in her life. In 2017, she moved to Fairmount, Indiana, where she began attending public school. Unfortunately, she experienced bullying, but this adversity only fueled her determination to create positive change. Rebekah decided to get involved in her community through volunteering, using her voice to advocate for her peers, herself, and the staff who support her.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Rebekah's journey is her commitment to employment and personal growth. She chose to utilize the services of Voc Rehab to pursue employment and group home living as a path toward independence. Through Voc Rehab, Rebekah has gained valuable skills and support to navigate the workforce and secure meaningful employment. Her dedication to personal growth has made her a role model for individuals with disabilities, showcasing the remarkable achievements that can be accomplished when given the chance.
Rebekah's impact extends beyond her personal achievements. She has embraced the role of a peer mentor for others at Carey Services, a program designed to help individuals with disabilities achieve independence. Through her mentorship, Rebekah has provided guidance, support, and encouragement to her peers, empowering them to reach their fullest potential. Her contributions to the development of the eMPower Academy have been invaluable, ensuring that others can benefit from the same opportunities for growth and independence that she has experienced. Recently, Rebekah was elected by her peers as President of the Grant-Blackford Self Advocates Group.
Rebekah has a genuine gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued. She doesn't know a stranger and is intentional about breaking down barriers and making new friends. Her warmth and genuine interest in others have made her a remarkable ambassador for Carey Services, representing the agency with grace and humility wherever she goes.
Rebekah Geist embodies the essence of leadership. Through her utilization of habilitation and rehabilitation services, including Voc Rehab, she has transformed her life, overcoming significant challenges to achieve her chosen goals. Rebekah's commitment to volunteerism, advocacy, and personal growth, along with her role as a peer mentor, has made a profound impact not only on her own life but on the lives of those around her.
Rebekah’s remarkable journey, advocacy efforts, dedication to personal growth, and her role in developing a peer mentorship program is nothing short of leadership.
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Rebekah was awarded the Justin Dart Personal Achievement Award at the INARF Annual Award Luncheon. The award is an annual statewide honor presented to an individual who has participated in services through an INARF member agency and who has maximized higher skills and abilities to achieve chosen goals.