Matthew Fernandez Email & Phone Number

The Best Buddies Jobs program secures jobs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through integrated, competitive employment. Managed a caseload of clients resulting in job retention over 90%. Developed new, and retained, employer partner resulting in a 20% growth in 2020. Developed new pipelines of clients for our program, delivered company diversity and inclusion initiatives through various Diversity and Inclusion/Disability Sensitivity trainings. Created and managed two statewide partnerships with PDQ and Advent Health which delivered additional job placements, new sponsorships, and growth of the advisory board. Generated over $200,000 in revenue toward our walk goal, $25,000 of which was new revenue.

The National Down Syndrome Congress is the leading national resource of support and information for anyone touched by or seeking to learn about Down syndrome, from the moment of prenatal diagnosis through adulthood. Served as the ambassador to multicultural communities, both domestically and abroad, ensuring our network of over 100 affiliate organizations had the most up-to-date information relating to Down syndrome. Developed and led a diversity council ensuring our programs reflected all backgrounds. Ensured all company communication outlets represented all audiences, including various languages. Managed international programming of the NDSC’s Annual Convention. Developed and retained a portfolio of donors which secured $31,000 in revenue. Managed the launch of NDSC’s Rural Outreach Program, serving populations across the U.S.