Teresa Porter has been employed by Rainbow of Challenges since September 1987 and has worked in many different positions during her tenure. Teresa feels that each position change has given her a broad understanding of the organization and enabled her to learn all aspects of the organization’s administration in relation to the services/supports available to individuals with disabilities.
Teresa started with the organization as a direct support worker in the public school classroom in 1987. A year later she accepted a clerical position for direct services. In 2001, she transferred to the position of Administrative Assistant eventually being promoted to Executive Assistant to the Executive Director as her duties and responsibilities increased. Teresa’s involvement in all administrative and support services has given her the opportunity to understand the operational functions of the organization. In 2007, she transferred to the finance department as the Accountant. Since that time she has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer and is responsible for the organization’s financial activities including payroll and HUD.
In 2009, Teresa graduated with honors from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business/Accounting. This degree, along with her experience and training, has been valuable to ensure that all Rainbow of Challenges’ financial activities are conducted in the best interest for the organization in both an ethical and efficient manner.
Teresa considers her role as the mother of a child with severe disabilities to be her most valuable experience with ROC and life in general. This experience has given her a better appreciation for providing quality services and supports to individuals with disabilities and their families. This experience has also created a strong bond with her family. She has been married to her husband, Bruce, for 34 years. In addition to their special child (now deceased), they have two other children; Chris and Aimee.
Teresa is actively involved with her church where she serves as pastor’s wife, pianist, church clerk/treasurer. She has served on various state boards as well local community activities.