Jaimi resides in Watertown, Massachusetts and is a persistent advocate for individuals who are deaf-blind. In her professional role as spokesperson for Perkins School for the Blind, Jaimi gives presentations at schools and civic organizations. She has a special passion for educating individuals who are deaf-blind, like herself, on how they can overcome the challenges they may face in life and gain independence.
Beyond her role at Perkins School for the Blind, Jaimi is involved in the following:
- Deaf-Blind Contact Center (member since 1980): Involved with a variety of committees including the nominating committee, membership committee, finance committee, special events planning committee and more.
- Deaf-Blind Community Access Network (DBCAN): Supports Service Provider Training to improve the quality and capacity of services available in Massachusetts for deaf-blind individuals.
- Deaf Women of Massachusetts: Instrumental in increasing and broadening membership.
Jaimi makes regular visits to the Massachusetts State House as an advocate for the deaf-blind community. In one instance, after learning of budget cuts to important services for deaf-blind residents, Jaimi spent several days at the House focusing solely on the legislative agenda for this issue. She contributed her time and energy toward a "Letters to the Editor" campaign, which heightened awareness of the proposed budget cuts. Letters from many members of the deaf-blind community were published in local papers resulting (along with her numerous advocacy efforts) in the restoration of funds for DBCAN to the state budget.
According to her peers, Jaimi is a "champion" with a great ability to inspire others and is always willing to try new things. Her can-do attitude, combined with an unsurpassed level of commitment toward issues related to deaf-blind individuals has been described as "remarkable". Jaimi is a true asset to the community.
This leadership recognition has been brought to you by Hamilton Relay.
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