Russ Joiner began his career of service in high school, where he helped organize a home for displaced teenagers and young adults. While pursuing his college education, he worked in healthcare as a hospital caregiver, surgical assistant, and later as a supervisor and trainer. His leadership journey continued as a manager at an assisted living facility, where he was first introduced to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He quickly discovered a passion for creating and participating in meaningful activities that enriched their lives. When approached about a leadership opportunity at Green Oaks Center, Russ was eager to apply and was ultimately selected as Executive Director—a role he has proudly held for over twenty years. Throughout his tenure, he has witnessed the evolution of services and remains dedicated to leading the agency in supporting individuals to live full, independent lives. Russ is a strong advocate for individuals, families, and professionals in the field. He values collaboration and works to ensure that quality, choice, and accessibility remain central to the services provided. Russ is married to Heather, a manager with Georgia’s Kinship Program, and they have one son currently in college. In addition to his professional work, Russ is active in his community, volunteering and serving on several boards. In his free time, he enjoys exploring history and genealogy.

Steve Jaramillo is a highly experienced leader with a diverse background spanning nonprofit management, higher education, law enforcement, financial services, human resources, and military service. With a strong foundation in public administration, he has dedicated his career to strategic leadership, program development, and community engagement.

With Extensive non-profit leadership experience, Steve has played a pivotal role in community development, program oversight, and strategic planning. As Assistant Executive Director at Lowndes Advocacy Resource Center (LARC) He has managed fiscal operations, ensured compliance with accreditation standards, and strengthened community partnerships. His work has focused on empowering individuals through effective program management, staff development, and fundraising efforts. He has successfully overseen LARC’s services, identified new revenue streams, and led strategic initiatives to enhance LARC’s impact and sustainability.

Steve is passionate about leadership development and mentorship. He holds a Masters of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science In criminal justice from Valdosta State University. His extensive experience in organizational leadership, fiscal management, and community engagement makes him a transformative leader dedicated to making a meaningful impact.

Ann Newton is the Executive Director at the Rutledge Center, Inc. located in Newnan, Georgia, with 30 years of experience working within the field of IDD (disabilities). Prior to her role at Rutledge, Ann was a Special Education teacher in Coweta County. Ann also works as a Surveyor for the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Through that work she can visit and learn from Community Integration providers all over the country and bring that knowledge back to the Rutledge Center. Recently Ann has joined GCAN as the Secretary and has benefitted tremendously form the professional support network and knowledge shared through this organization.

She is dedicated to supporting individuals with IDD to live a robust life with individual freedoms, choices and belonging. Ann has been married for 27 years and has two adult children. In her free time, she loves playing with her dogs, boating and pickleball. GO DAWGS!

Kim Hyde has been a dedicated advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1997. She serves as the Assistant Director and Business Manager at Burnt Mountain Center (BMC) in Jasper, Georgia, where she has played an active role in navigating the evolving landscape of IDD services. Over the years, Kim has helped guide the program through significant changes in policies, rules, and regulations all while maintaining a strong commitment to providing quality, person-centered services.

Kim brings to GCAN a practical, common-sense financial perspective paired with strong leadership and advocacy experience. Her deep understanding of both operational and systemic challenges makes her a valuable voice in efforts to protect and improve services for individuals with disabilities.

A proud resident of Blue Ridge, Georgia, Kim enjoys the outdoors—especially hiking the Appalachian Trail. She also enjoys serving at her church, and spending time with her grandchildren.