Incompass Human Services was born out of the disability rights movement, rooted in the fundamental belief that disability rights are human rights. And 70 years later we have never wavered from that mission. We know that many in our community are feeling anxiety and uncertainty right now, and I want you to know that we hear you. If you receive services, if you support people in our programs, if your loved one relies on Incompass—whatever your connection—there is room for you in our tent. You are valued, you are supported, and you belong here.
Every day, our Care Champions come together with a shared purpose to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injuries to live their best lives. That commitment is not just a guiding principle—it is who we are. And I am so privileged to lead an agency with such an authentic culture. Whether someone is medically fragile, behaviorally challenged, autistic, or facing other significant life challenges, they deserve the chance to have a purpose and a place in this world. And we’re here to help them find it – that is our “north star.”
But honestly one of the things I am most proud of is the rich diversity of our community. Our Care Champions come from all backgrounds and bring their authentic selves to this work, united by a shared dedication to the people we support. In fact, one of our strategic plan goals is rooted in cultural competency and the JEDI model. We believe in fostering an inclusive culture where every voice matters, and that belief will not change. After all, the work we do here is built on seventy years of compassion, advocacy, and respect for each other.
As a Board member for The Arc at both the state and national level, I am advocating for our community alongside leaders across the country. Incompass is proud to be a chapter of The Arc, and we stand with our fellow advocates to ensure that the rights of people with disabilities are protected. We are not alone in this mission, and we will continue to move forward with our vision —because the people we support deserve nothing less.
While I cannot predict what the future holds, I can say this with certainty: our commitment to the Incompass mission and our Care Champion culture will never waver. It is the foundation of who we are, and it is what will carry us forward—one step at a time.
Incompass Human Services is thrilled to announce that Chief Marketing Officer Dan Esdale has been elected Chair of the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce. This significant appointment underscores the strong relationship between Incompass and the broader Lowell community, highlighting the organization’s deep commitment to local development and collaboration.
Since becoming the marketing and fundraising lead for Incompass in 2019, Dan has been a mainstay in the human services and Greater Lowell communities. He joined the Board of Directors for the Greater Lowell Chamber in 2021, and brings a wealth of experience to his new role as Chair having spent five years as the marketing director at the Greater Boston Chamber earlier in his career. He is working alongside longtime Greater Lowell Chamber CEO, Danielle McFadden, along with Vice Chair Vichtcha Kong of Washington Savings Bank.
“I am truly honored to be elected Chair of the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce,” said Esdale. “I am eager to collaborate with such an accomplished leader in Danielle McFadden to continue fostering a vibrant business community in Lowell while enhancing community outreach at Incompass. I’ll be a visible presence at Chamber events throughout the year.”
Jean Phelps, CEO of Incompass Human Services, commented on Dan’s appointment: “Dan’s leadership role in such a prominent community organization not only reflects his personal commitment to our mission, but also enhances Incompass’s visibility and influence in the region.”
Dan’s achievements since joining Incompass include receiving the 2023 “Rising Executive of the Year” award by The Arc of the United States, recognizing his significant contributions to the human services field. He holds an MBA from UMass Lowell, a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Suffolk University, and an executive certificate from Harvard Business School.
Incompass Human Services proudly announces that CEO Jean Phelps has been honored with the first-ever “Community Award” by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD). This prestigious national award was presented to Ms. Phelps earlier this month at the AAIDD Annual Conference held in Louisville, Kentucky, recognizing her remarkable contributions in support of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The “Community Award” is a new addition to the AAIDD’s recognition programs, designed to honor leaders who have made substantial contributions to the advancement of the intellectual and developmental disabilities field. Jean Phelps, who has led Incompass Human Services for nearly 20 years, was recognized for her dedicated efforts in championing the rights and inclusion of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Under her leadership, Incompass has grown its service portfolio through a combination of organic program growth, construction of new group homes, and mergers & affiliations – ultimately contributing to more inclusive and accessible community.
Upon receiving the award, Ms. Phelps shared her thoughts, “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition and lead such an incredible team of Care Champions. It’s really a testament to the commitment of every person at Incompass Human Services who work tirelessly to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, is valued and given the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives.”
Brad MacDougall, Chair of the Board at Incompass Human Services, added that “Jean is a wonderful person whose leadership has been nothing short of transformative for Incompass. She has not only steered our agency towards new heights but has also profoundly impacted the broader community by setting a standard for inclusion and advocacy. This award is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her visionary approach and unwavering dedication.”
Incompass Human Services is excited to announce the appointment of Vincent Geromini and Kerri Dixon to our esteemed Board of Directors. With their extensive experience and passion for serving others, they are incredible additions to our team as we continue our commitment to our founding family’s mission and embark on our new strategic plan.
Vincent Geromini brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our board. Presently serving as a Consultant for SEI, Mr. Geromini has worked closely with executive and senior leadership teams globally, developing and executing ambitious strategic initiatives across both the public and private sectors. His direct experience with state Medicaid programs and his advisory roles in various consulting firms make him a valuable asset to Incompass Human Services.
Kerri Dixon
Kerri Dixon’s background in regulation and compliance, coupled with her dedication to special education, adds a unique perspective to our board. With 15 years of experience in government and corporate environments, including NASDAQ and Retirement Fiduciary Group, and an MBA from Simmons University, Ms. Dixon brings a wealth of knowledge to our organization. Her transition to becoming a Special Education teacher at the Dracut Public School System, where she works closely with children in residence who are struggling with mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and abandonment, demonstrates her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Additionally, her certification as a Yoga Teacher further enriches her ability to support our mission of holistic care.
Brad MacDougall, Chair of the Incompass Human Services Board of Directors, expressed his excitement about the new additions, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Vincent Geromini and Kerri Dixon to our board. Their diverse backgrounds and wealth of experience will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission and deepen the wealth of knowledge at the Board level. I speak for my fellow Board members when I say we are all excited for the passion they both demonstrate for the work we are doing, and the people we are serving at Incompass.”
CEO Jean Phelps echoed these sentiments, remarking, “Vincent Geromini and Kerri Dixon bring a wealth of knowledge and dedication to our organization. Their demonstrated commitment to serving others make them incredible additions to the Incompass Board of Directors, and I’m thrilled to have them as Care Champions.”
As we celebrate 70 years of service in 2024, Incompass Human Services remains steadfast in our dedication to providing comprehensive support to individuals and families in need. With our new strategic plan guiding our efforts, we are excited to work alongside Vincent Geromini, Kerri Dixon, and the entire board to continue fulfilling our mission and driving our Care Champion culture for many years to come.
As I step into the role of Chair of the Board at Incompass Human Services, I am filled with a profound sense of honor and excitement. This opportunity to lead an organization that stands as a beacon of innovation and compassion in human services is truly humbling.
I want to start by expressing my deep gratitude to Tim, our past Chair, for his remarkable service. His leadership has been pivotal, and we are fortunate to continue benefiting from his wisdom as he remains an active member of the Incompass Board and Chair of the New England Human Services Collaborative (NEHSCO).
For those who don’t know me, my connection to Incompass is more than just professional; it’s deeply personal. The support my older brother receives in a group home in Merrimack Valley has a profound impact on our family. The team that supports him has provided him with so much; he is now even working at a job in the community. I can’t properly describe the sense of pride he has earning a paycheck, but I am forever grateful that he is able to have this experience. And isn’t that what it’s all about?
Incompass Human Services is a shining beacon of innovation and compassion. Throughout my tenure on the board, I have been consistently inspired by this community of caregivers who are truly engaged in our mission to empower the people we serve to live full lives.
To our incredible team, your dedication and compassion as Care Champions are the core of our success. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed – I thank each of you for your unwavering commitment and perseverance. The Board of Directors and Executive Leadership Team will continue to support you and spotlight you as we expand our impact.
I also extend heartfelt thanks to our NESCHO Affiliates – Bridgewell and The Arc of Opportunity. We have a shared vision to continue building a person-centered network rooted in innovating to help the most vulnerable thrive. Seeing some of the early returns like shared staff training and enhanced IT resources give me confidence that we will continue delivering on that vision together.
A special acknowledgment to our partners in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, including our elected officials. Your support is essential to our mission, and we value the relationships we have forged with all of you over the years. I’d love to personally invite you to visit Incompass, either at our Chelmsford headquarters or one of our numerous group homes throughout Greater Lowell, and see the impact that Care Champions have in your districts.
As we step into the Incompass Human Services Days of Giving in December, I encourage our extended network to generously contribute. Your support is vital in enabling us to continue our mission of empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. Every donation, big or small, helps us in our commitment to innovation and compassionate service.
In closing, I express my deepest appreciation for each one of you in our Incompass community. Together, we are poised for greatness. Our journey is one of progress, growth, and boundless compassion. I eagerly anticipate celebrating our shared achievements in the coming year and beyond.
