Meet Melanie Heseman! She is a Program Manager at Woodhaven. She worked with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities for 35 years and started at Woodhaven in July of 2023. She was introduced to Human Services when she worked as a DSP in college and loved being around individuals. In her previous position, Melanie held an administrative role and after seven years, wanted to return to working directly with individuals and the kind of work she describes as the “love of her life”. She had heard great things about Woodhaven and was impressed by those who interviewed her. Currently, Melanie oversees six homes at Woodhaven and couldn’t be more fulfilled.
One of Melanie’s favorite memories is when she took one of her houses to the Missouri State Highway Patrol Museum. “The State Highway Patrol Museum staff welcomed us with open arms. Everyone experienced such joy and wonder, and the individuals had so much fun during the visit. Best of all, there were lots hugs from those who went”, she said.
One of Melanie’s superpowers is that she is very accepting, open, welcoming and loving to all she meets. Melanie also enjoys gardening and loves to watch her plants grow. She is great at advocating at Woodhaven, whether it’s for the individuals or staff. If she could be anywhere, it would be at one of her Woodhaven homes.
Meet Chris! Chris is one of our individuals here at Woodhaven and has been with us since October 2003. He resides in one of Melanie’s homes, and she has shared amazing things about him. Chris attends the day program full-time, and Melanie notes, “You know he’s had a great day when he comes home with a giant smile on his face.” Chris enjoys working on his cards and showing them off to everyone; he also loves receiving letters from his mother. His superpower is melting the hearts of everyone he meets with his smile. Chris is very welcoming, gentle, and sweet. Every time Melanie speaks of Chris or any of the individuals she’s worked with, she beams with joy with a big smile on her face.
What is a Program Manager at Woodhaven?
A Program Manager is responsible for ensuring the overall safety and welfare of each individual supported in their assigned homes while guaranteeing high-quality program delivery. They oversee all operational aspects of the sites, including staff supervision and programmatic activities, and promote individual rights, choices, and community inclusion. The Program Manager makes HR recommendations to the Director of Residential and Community Services regarding hiring, corrective action, promotion, and termination of employees. They assist Home Coordinators in licensing and certification surveys, maintaining positive relationships with funding agency staff, and writing and overseeing the implementation of corrective action plans for licensing agencies.
The Program Manager ensures the scheduling of medical appointments and the communication of medical information to Health Services and team members. They are available to respond to calls and staff needs within assigned homes at all times, ensuring coverage during absences, and must respond to calls 24/7, arranging for coverage if unavailable. Additionally, they coordinate and ensure continuous in-service training for assigned employees, implement all agency policies and procedures, and monitor expenses to ensure spending remains within budget, authorizing overtime as needed.
The Program Manager prepares and submits regulatory reports, supports agency policies, and represents the agency at governmental, professional, and community meetings. They complete and review performance plans and appraisals for assigned staff, assist Home Coordinators in developing and implementing Behavior Management Plans, and reflect organizational values while maintaining principal-centered leadership. They develop comprehensive knowledge of State Department of Mental Health licensing regulations, Medicaid Waiver procedures, and CARF principles to facilitate compliance and ensure the confidentiality of information in accordance with Woodhaven policies, DMH regulations, and state and federal laws. Finally, the Program Manager performs additional duties as required by emergencies, unusual situations, or as assigned by supervisors or leadership staff.
