Celebrating 40 Years of Visionary Leadership
August 2024
This month, Hope Community Resources, Inc. proudly celebrates the 40-year anniversary of our Executive Director, Michele Girault, who has dedicated her career to advancing the mission of our organization and improving the lives of people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Michele’s journey with Hope began in 1984 when she arrived in Alaska from Colorado for what she thought would be a summer job as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Little did she know, that experience would spark a lifelong passion for both Alaska and serving people with disabilities, and she has since devoted four decades to championing people's rights, dignity, inclusion, individuality, self-advocacy, and opportunities to live full, meaningful lives. Her kindness and leadership have broken down barriers and changed people's lives for the better.
 |
 |
 |
Michele’s career has been marked by her belief that small, persistent efforts can lead to big improvements in human dignity and quality of life. Her approach to leadership is rooted in kindness, advocacy, and empowerment, leading to transformative impact on both the organization and our broader community.
Reflecting on her journey, Michele shared, “I have loved being part of the stories of bringing people out of institutional settings into communities of choice, and witnessing the growth and joy in that process. Throughout my career, I have tried to look through a lens of abundance when scarcity is all around us. I have literally 'grown up' with many of the people Hope supports, and these relationships have created a deep commitment to staying the course."
Michele’s influence has inspired countless others within Hope and the broader community to take action for the greater good. Her legacy of courage, kindness, and empowerment has driven others to continue the important work that has defined Hope since its founding in 1968. The profound impact she has made is reflected in the heartfelt words of those who have had the privilege to work alongside her.
Hope’s Board President, Kendra Sticka, emphasized Michele’s role in transforming opportunities for people with disabilities in Alaska, stating, "Michele lives the values of Hope. She always brings the individual being served to the center of every discussion and decision, genuinely and authentically engaging with all parts of the Hope community. Over the past 40 years, she has been a part of a massive cultural shift in the world of disabilities. Her collaborative nature and willingness to always put people first have allowed her impact to stretch beyond Hope and into so many other spaces that improve our community and the lives of people who live within it. As both a board member and a mom of a young adult with intellectual disabilities, I would like to give a huge and heartfelt thank you to Michele for her decades of service in building a better community for those with disabilities."
Mercedes Barbaza, Executive Assistant, said, “Michele’s leadership has set a high standard for operational excellence and professional development, strengthening Hope’s core value of growth and innovation. Her dedication and visionary leadership have shaped Hope’s success and its impact on the community.”
Tom Hiratsuka, CFO, added, “Michele displays both compassion and accountability in her interactions with staff while embodying our core values. Her perpetual optimism and creative problem-solving inspire others to look at challenges differently and strive for positive outcomes.”
Sharayah Talarovich, former Chief Workforce and Risk Officer, said, “Michele cares about people first – always. Her integrity and focus on serving people make her incredibly effective. She’s brave and courageous, willing to challenge the status quo and prioritize our mission above other interests. Her heart for people is what truly sets her apart.”
Joe Sonnier, Board Treasurer, reflected, “Michele’s journey from institutional settings to vibrant community life mirrors her colorful, impactful presence at Hope. Her daily practice of kindness, advocacy, and empowerment has inspired countless others. Her extraordinary magic leaves a lasting imprint on our community and our lives.”
 |
 |
 |
As we celebrate this extraordinary milestone, we extend our gratitude to Michele for her 40 years of commitment, visionary leadership, and impact. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we work toward a future where every person is empowered to live a full, meaningful life.
| Leave a Comment for Michele | Send a Message to Michele |
