Our team
The People First staff is composed of highly experienced professionals. Our team members chose their vocation because they have a passion for helping others in need. This shows every day in the level of care they provide, the amount of compassion they offer, and their long-term commitment to working at People First.
Meet our Leadership Team
Kathy Burt
Owner/CEO
As a parent of an adult with multiple disabilities, I found myself in a unique position to do something to ensure the long-term care, safety, and happiness of my daughter Katelyn, her friends, and peers.
In 2018, I created People First as a day program for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. It’s been a labor of love not only for my daughter, but for the community we proudly serve.
We provide our services in a safe, positive, and innovative environment. We promote personal growth, and strive to improve the quality of life for both our individuals and their families. Developing the People First Foundation and putting together a talented team to operate the daily operation continues to be my top priority.
Pamela Davis
Director of Operations
Pam Davis brings decades of knowledge and experience to her role as DOO at People First. She worked for 28 years as a Direct Staff at the Summit County Board of Developmental Disabilities, and has five years of experience in Homemaker Personal Care. Believing that sports help people with physical and intellectual disabilities find confidence, new skills, joy, and success, Pam has been involved with Special Olympics for over 25 years. She was Director of the Summit County Program, and spent five years as a Regional Director for the State Special Olympics Program.
Theodore Maringer
Community and Employment Supports
Ted Maringer believes it’s important to support the participation of adults with developmental disabilities in their communities, both inside and outside of the workplace. Since 2019, Ted has helped individuals achieve their goals at People First. Prior to joining People first, Ted held various positions for over 10 years at the Summit County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Ted has two years of experience in Homemaker Personal Care, as well as job coaching. He has worked as a teacher’s assistant in an autism unit for students in K-12, and has been involved with Special Olympics for over 10 years.
Meet our Support Staff
Support Staff
Each member of our extensive staff receives training to help ensure compliance with our program’s objectives. Additionally, all individuals have met the provider certification training requirements from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, and are certified in CPR and First Aid.
Support Staff Includes:
Cheryl Roberts – Activity Specialist
Barbara Tomin – Activity Specialist
Kelly McIntyre – Activity Specialist
Sharon Miller – Activity Specialist
Janet Heffernan-Activity Specialist
Danny Dragg – Activity Specialist and Driver
Denise George Activity Specialist and Driver