Executive Director | People with Disabilities Succeeding

People with Disabilities Succeeding

Founder and Executive Director

Lisa Markey

In 1990 Lisa Markey was hired by Casa Allegra Inc. to start a new program called Pacific Diversified Services.

In 1994 Pacific Diversified Services broke off from it's umbrella organization and became a non-profit organization.

In 2016 Lisa founded People with Disabilities Succeeding, a new nonprofit organization with the familiar PDS acronym.

Read Lisa's Personal Story

Education

M.A. Department of Special Education, Emphasis: Vocational Special Education/Education of the Severely Disabled San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA (1996).
Specialist Credential, Education of Students with Severe Disabilities, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA (1993).
Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA (1993).
B.A. Liberal Studies, Magna Cum Laude, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA (1989). Emphasis: Speech and Communication.

Lisa with her administrative team, Jarrod and Shirley

Employment

(6/90 - present) People with Disabilities Succeeding (formerly Pacific Diversified Services)

Executive Director - Founded, incorporated, and operate an innovative organization that supports community inclusion and facilitates integrated, paid employment for adults with developmental disabilities.
Perform all administrative functions, including but not limited to: Creation, design and implementation of program philosophy, mission, structure, policies and procedures, services.
Assessment, intake, termination of participants, development of participants' Individual Support Plans.
Job development, facilitation of inclusion of PDS participants in meaningful activities in integrated environments.

Recruitment, hiring, supervision, discipline, promotion, termination of personnel.
Location of funding, administering and monitoring of funds.
Assurance that agency practices are in accordance with PDS philosophy and mission, as well as the Department of Labor, the IRS, Golden Gate Regional Center and the Department of Developmental Services.

(9/87 - 6/90) San Francisco Unified School District - Washington High School

Instructional Aide- Assisted in a self-contained, community based classroom with a heterogeneous group of students involved in vocational experiences in the community with teacher, Annette Vitali-Thompson. Was considered a model program at the time.

(Summer, Winter 1989) Project Opportunity -An innovative and participant centered program co-founded by a parent of a young adult with disabilities

Job Specialist- Provided direct support in community and employment services.

Awards

2012 -- The Jefferson Award - a recognition system honoring community and public service in America. Lisa Markey, Jefferson award recipient video. & Award Ceremony, where 5 finalists, including Lisa, accepted silver medals video.
1996 -- Graduate Student Award, San Francisco State University
1994-95 -- US Department of Education Employment Specialist Stipend Recipient, San Francisco State University
1989 -- Crumpton/Baxter/Bonham Memorial Scholarship San Francisco State University.
1989 -- PTA Scholarship San Francisco State University

Publications

Certo, N. J., Lee, M., Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D., Toney, L., Toney, K., & Smalley, K. A. (1995) Natural supports case study: assisting Lisa to connect with her dreams.

Professional Presentations

Markey L., (2024), Participated in a panel at a board meeting at Golden Gate Regional Center in San Francisco, via Zoom. “ Challenges for Day Program Providers” January.
Markey L., (2020), PDS presented ”Successes and and Challenges of Remote Service Delivery During COVID-19", to a unit meeting at Golden Gate Regional Center in San Francisco, via Zoom. July.
Markey L., (2020), “Improving Quality of Life with Integrated Employment and Community Services”, HireAble. Guest Speaker. January.
Markey L., Doers, Guy, Harrison, Sallie (2019),“People with Disabilities Succeeding in Marin”, The Rotary Club of Ross Valley. Guest Speaker. December.
Giraldi L. Doers, G., Harrison, S., Chao, S., Allen, J. (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015),
How to Facilitate Quality of Life for Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Making a Commitment to Best Practices and Maintaining Integrity." Special Education Transition course. Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University, Fall and Spring.
Giraldi L. (2010) Friendship Meeting. Facilitation of group meeting between people with disabilities and staff from U.S. And Japan-sharing of success stories and providing information to facilitate innovation and progress. PDS office, July.

Giraldi L., Chao, S., Doers, G. , Harrison, S. (2010) "How to Facilitate Quality of Life for Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Making a Commitment to Best Practices and Maintaining Integrity." All Day Seminar which was part of The Awareness Project. Cavallo Point, Sausalito. July. Watch here: Awareness Project
Giraldi L., Blood, S. , Chao, S, Doers, G. , Harrison, S. (2009) “How to Facilitate Quality of Life for Adults with Developmental Disabilities: Making a Commitment to Best Practices and Maintaining Integrity.” Special Education Transition course. Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University, Fall.
Giraldi L., Blood, S. , Chao, S. Doers, G., Peerand, E., (2009) Rights and Opportunities for Adults with Developmental Disabilities-Best Practices for Individuals with “Severe Reputations." STA Norcal. 3 1/2 hour training for direct care staff members at the day program facility in San Rafael, CA. March.
Giraldi L., Blood, S. , Celestine, D., Peak, K. Peerand, E., (2008) Pacific Diversified Services: an Adult Services Model Program-Driven by Values and Best Practices. Special Education Transition course.Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University, Fall.
Giraldi L., Jahnke, J.R. Alonso, E. (2007) Pacific Diversified Services: an Adult Services Model Program-Driven by Values and Best Practices. Special Education Transition course. Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University, Fall.
Giraldi, L. with PDS participants (2007) Introduction to Adults with Developmental Disabilities: An educational presentation about general topics regarding diversity and inclusion of people who are different.Presentation to Sinaloa Middle School students. At PDS office. November.
Giraldi L., Jahnke, J.R. Alonso, E. (2007) Pacific Diversified Services: an Adult Services Model Program-Driven by Values and Best Practices. Rotary club of Ross Valley. Guest Speaker, Deer Park Villa, September.
Giraldi L., Argueta J. (2006) Joe's Journey: From Segregation/Institutionalization to Inclusion.Presentation to large group of visitors including government representatives from all over Japan. Also hosted luncheon with Question and Answer time about PDS and visit to PDS office. November.
Giraldi, L., Argueta, J. (2006) Joe's Journey: From Segregation/Institutionalization to Inclusion. Introduction to Disability course.Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University, Fall.
Giraldi, L., Argueta, J. (2005) Joe's Journey: From Segregation/Institutionalization to Inclusion. Introduction to Disability course.Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University, Fall.
Giraldi L. (2004) Friendship Meeting. Facilitation of large group meeting between people with disabilities and staff from U.S. And Japan-sharing of success stories and providing information to facilitate innovation and progress. Marriot Hotel, Larkspur. October.
Giraldi L., and Peak K. (2003) Contacts, Motivation, Perseverance, Communication and Heart: What it takes to Develop and Maintain Paid Employment for People with Severe Disabilities. Seminar sponsored by Center for Independent Living. Tachikawa, Japan. February.
Giraldi L., and Peak K. (2003) Contacts, Motivation, Perseverance, Communication and Heart: What it takes to Develop and Maintain Paid Employment for People with Severe Disabilities. Seminar in Fukuoka, Japan. February.
Giraldi L., and Peak K. (2003) Contacts, Motivation, Perseverance, Communication and Heart: What it takes to Develop and Maintain Paid Employment for People with Severe Disabilities. Seminar sponsored by Kashima Institution. Osaka, Japan. February. Watch educational video produced by Japanese hosts. See footage of visits and presentations in Japan.
Giraldi L., and Argueta J. (2002) Working for a Living. 6th annual Golden Gate Self-Advocacy Conference.Conference Presenter. San Francisco, September.
Giraldi L., Argueta J. (2001) Joe's Journey: From Segregation/Institutionalization to Inclusion. Self-determination Workshop. Regional Center of Orange County. Keynote Speaker. Santa Ana. December.
Markey, L., Argueta, J. (2000) Joe's Journey: From Segregation/Institutionalization to Inclusion. Introduction to Disability course.Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University, Spring.
Markey, L., Toney, L., Peak, K. (1999) Pacific Diversified Services. Behavioral Science/Psychology fieldwork seminar. Guest Lecturer, College of Marin, Fall.
Markey, L. (1999). Management Strategies for Nonprofit Organizations. Guest Lecturer, Sonoma State University, March.
Markey, L., Mangrubang, D., Toney, L., Sloan, R., Alonso, E. (1997) Contacts + Motivation + Creativity + Perseverance + Communication + Heart = Jobs/Obtaining and Maintaining Employment for Individuals with Intensive Challenges. Cal- TASH ‘97 Conference. Spring.
Markey, L., Toney, L., Mangrubang, D., (1997) Building and Maintaining Community Connections and Networking. Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University, March.
Markey, L., Mangrubang, D. (1996) Job Club Presentation for Japanese Visitors. October.
Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D. (1995). Integrated Work and Community Inclusion For Adults With The Most Severe Disabilities. Golden Gate Regional Center, San Francisco, CA.
Mangrubang, D., Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D. (1995) The Job Club. Supported Life ‘95 Conference, October.
Markey, L. (1995) Positive Behavioral Approaches in Community and Employment Settings. Guest lecturer, San Francisco State University. Fall.
Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D., Toney, L., Argueta, J. (1994) Natural Supports and Community Inclusion Strategies. Guest Lecturer, San Francisco State University.
Markey, L. (1994) Live and In Person... Coworkers and Employers Share Perspectives. Cal-TASH ‘94 Conference, April.
Rodriguez, S., Vitali-Thompson, A., Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D., Slicton-Williams, M., Miles, C. (1994) It Can Be Done! Local Agencies Share Inclusion Strategies. Cal-TASH ‘94 Conference, April.
Markey, L. (1994) Administrative and Management Issues. Guest lecturer, San Francisco State University. Fall.
Markey, L., Toney, L., Belanger Mautz, D. (1994) Innovative Support Strategies. Guest lecturer, San Francisco State University. Spring.
Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D., Rodriguez, S., Vitali-Thompson, A. (1994) Overview of the Lanterman Act and Integrated Work Programs in the Bay Area. Guest lecturer, San Francisco State University.
Certo, N., Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D., Toney, L., Mullendore, M., Tweit-Hull, D., Sousa, M. (1993) Natural Supports: Facilitating Employment and Inclusive Living.Supported Life ‘93 Conference, October.
Panel Discussion (1993) Discussing Your Child’s Future. Interactive Session with parents of students in Special Education. Marin County Office of Education. March.
Markey, L. (1993) Full Inclusion into School and Community Settings. Guest lecturer, San Francisco State University. Spring.
Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D. (1993) Person Centered Planning. Guest lecturer, San Francisco State University. Spring.
Markey, L. (1993) Transition Preparation. Audience of secondary and post-secondary teachers. Marin County Office of Education. March.
Panelist (1993) Cal-TASH Leadership Symposium re: Natural Supports. San Diego State University. June.
Markey, L., Belanger Mautz, D. (1992) How To Get What You Want And Need. Supported Life ‘92 Conference. October.
Markey, L. (1991) Integrated Work. Guest lecturer, San Francisco State University. Fall.

Media Presentations and/or Features

2023 -- People with Disabilities Succeeding was highlighted in the Contra Costa Pulse, for weathering the pandemic, creating the Friend Zone, and returning to and thriving post pandemic. You can read the article here: Contra Costa Pulse
2020 -- People with Disabilities Succeeding was featured in the Marin IJ local news section for creatively creating an online community for our clients to be entertained, learn, exercise and connect during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can read the article here: Marin IJ Article
2012 -- Featured with Sallie Harrison, Kevin Peak, Robin Sloan and Pati Stoliar on CBS Eyewitness News as a recipient of The Jefferson Award-a recognition system honoring community and public service in America. Lisa Markey, Jefferson award recipient video. & Award Ceremony, where 5 finalists., including Lisa accepted silver medals video
2010 -- Interviewed with PDS participant Sallie Harrison, for AFP story picked up by Yahoo News. Internet an equalizer for people with disabilities. September.
2010 -– Featured with PDS participant Sallie Harrison in ABC7's Emmy award-winning public affairs show, "Beyond the Headlines," which provides in-depth coverage of the topics and issues facing the people of the Bay Area. The topic was "Living with Disabilities" and PDS specifically addressed "Lifestyle Issues" and highlighted the importance of community inclusion, integration, choice and opportunities. May. Watch it here: Sallie and Lisa Interview
2008 -- Public Service announcements promoting Metallica concert ticket raffle and educating public about PDS. Aired on six radio stations owned by Maverick Media. December.
2008 -- Featured, along with PDS participants, on KTVU news Channel 2 in segment about how credit crunch is hurting PDS. December. Watch the segment here: Channel 2 Credit Crunch
2008 -- Featured in Marin Independent Journal in an article regarding how nonprofit organizations are affected by credit crunch. December.
2006 -- Featured along with a PDS participant on Comcast Local edition- a professionally produced five-minute news interview program seen on CNN Headline News for Comcast subscribers. April. Watch the video here: Lisa and Robin Interview
1999 -- Interviewed in an educational video about integrated employment and job coaching for the Community Support Institute, Japan. PDS participants and employers were also filmed and interviewed for this video. February. Watch it here: Educational Video for Japan

1998 -- Featured along with PDS participants in the Lifestyles section of the Marin Independent Journal in an article about Pacific Diversified Services entitled "Easing into the Workforce." November.
1996 -- Featured in "Channel 7 Salutes" segment of ABC news in recognition of service to the community. January. Watch here: Channel 7 Salutes
1993 -- Featured along with PDS participants in "Unlocking Doors: Supported Employment for Californians", an educational video produced by the Rehabilitation Administration Department of the Graduate School of Management at the University of San Francisco for the California Department of Rehabilitation. December.

Assistance to Develop New Services/Policy

2010 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services to Jacqueline Philpott, founder of Terra Firma – a service in Berkeley, California, created to serve young adults with developmental disabilities in the East Bay. January.
2009 -- Presented theory and practices of employment and community inclusion support services, focusing on individuals with severe behavioral challenges to Peter Symonds, General Manager from Ability Tasmania Group in Burnie, Tasmania , Australia. March.
2006 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services, focusing on individuals with severe behavioral challenges to Bethany Mickahail, MA Faculty, Axia College of Western International University. May.
2005 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services to Paula Gumpman, Ed.S. Transition Project Director Center on Disability and Employment, The University of Tennessee. October.
2004 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services to Mizuki Nagae from Fuji City Government, Japan. December.
2003 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services to agencies and individuals throughout Japan, including People First of Tokyo, Center for Independent Living, Tokyo, and various workshops such as Puku Puku, Fukuoka. February. Watch educational video produced by Japanese hosts. See footage of visits and presentations in Japan.
2000 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services to Sherry Novick, Chief Consultant to Assemblywoman Dion Aroner. October.
2000 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services to Diane Van Maren, Principal Consultant, Senate Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review. October.
1996 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services to large group of Japanese visitors for the Japan Pacific Resource Network. June.
1996 -- Presented theory and practices of integrated work and community inclusion support services to Soña Holúbkova Ph.D., Regional Director of Services for Children with Developmental Disabilities in Slovakia. May.
1992-96 -- Advisory Council Member/Participant, California’s Natural Support Project. Statewide model demonstration project funded by the US Department of Health and Human Services.