Linda Iovanna is the CEO of CCARC Inc., a private nonprofit that offers residential, vocational, employment, day, advocacy and social services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
CCARC is a person-centered provider that focuses on the individual needs of everyone receiving services.
While CCARC has long had expertise caring for people with greater medical needs, it is growing customized supports in employment and living options.
Iovanna focuses on strategic initiatives and legislative advocacy. CCARC is a $15 million organization with more than 300 employees and 200 people served. Iovanna started at CCARC in July 2021 after six years as CEO for a local Arc in Middlesex County.
What have been your biggest professional accomplishments so far?
My biggest accomplishment is completing MBAs in management and health services and certification in project management mastery with experience in academia, corporate and nonprofits to provide an eclectic skill set and transferable knowledge.
A memorable accomplishment was creatively funding, purchasing and renovating a 36,000-square-foot building that consolidated services while improving program quality.
What’s the next big goal you want to accomplish professionally?
Goals include positioning CCARC Inc. as a leader in individualized employment and residential services for people with developmental disabilities and increasing the number of people we serve with greater medical and behavioral challenges and creating a work environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.
Also, I want to increase CCARC’s revenue by 25%.
What’s one of the biggest professional challenges you’ve overcome?
Amidst my career, I was an at-home mother. It is difficult to credibly return to work. I worked my way up a second time.
Time away may lessen best practice knowledge but it does not dampen ability to problem solve, think strategically or to lead; It gives fresh perspective.
Who has been your most important mentor and why?
Rich Knotek of MahoneySabol was my board chair. Rich’s financial and accounting knowledge was invaluable. His support and unwavering commitment once decisions were made allowed us to accomplish amazing work and propel the organization forward.
He taught me to thoroughly prepare, take calculated risk, manage the complications and stay focused.
