Meet Jeff Meeks, Executive Director of The Arc since 2004. With a diverse background that includes experience as an elected official, technology company manager, engineer, and father of a child with a disability, Jeff brings a unique perspective to his role. As Executive Director, Jeff supervises The Arc’s eleven programs and handles administrative tasks to support the organization’s staff in serving the community. Jeff’s favorite part of his job? Every part. He feels blessed to work with a terrific team to make things better for people.

Amber Cook is the Community Engagement Manager at The Arc, having joined in 2017. With her background in the Human Service field and being a mother of a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Amber brings a wealth of relevant experience to her role. Her primary responsibility is ensuring that the Community Engagement Program runs smoothly, supporting clients in achieving their personal goals, and preventing social isolation. Amber’s favorite part of the job is seeing the growth of services in the community and witnessing the progress of clients’ support systems over the years. She is passionate about providing the best support to those in need and making a positive impact in their lives.

Christie Chiles is the Information Services Director and Grays Harbor Parent to Parent Coordinator at The Arc. She joined in 2019, bringing experience in special education and firsthand knowledge as a parent of a neurodiverse child. Christie’s primary role is to provide information, referrals, and support to self-advocates, their families, and the community. She also offers guidance to parents of children with disabilities, helping them find resources for their child’s needs. Christie is passionate about helping others and dedicated to serving clients, families, and the community.

Meet Estela Aguilar, our multicultural Parent Coordinator for Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties, who offers Spanish-language support and resources for families with children with disabilities. Her knowledge of various cultural backgrounds allows her to provide tailored support for diverse families. Estela also provides disability application assistance, Community Engagement Services, and information and referrals in both English and Spanish.

Meet Jo Wilde, a Community Guide at The Arc. Jo joined our team in 2022 and brings with her a wealth of caregiving experience as a certified HCA. She holds a 2-year degree in Human Services and is a Generalist. As a Community Guide, Jo spends her time with our Community Engagement clients, helping them achieve their goals and prevent social isolation. Jo’s favorite part of her job is planning and executing fun activities that bring joy to our clients. She enjoys getting to know the people we serve and helping them live their best lives.