The EMPACTT Team

Dr. Jocelyn Towler, PH.D. President

Dr. Jocelyn Towler is CEO and Co-Founder of Peak Performance Training Centers, Inc., an adult day volunteer and Employment training center for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Since 2004, they…

have developed four locations throughout Los Angeles County and San Bernardino County. Jocelyn believes that her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan has provided her with a foundation that has led to her success. With a background in psychology, she understands fundamental management principles to empower others to do their best. Her passion for potential development has enabled others to break through the personal barriers that prevent them from succeeding and accomplishing their goals.

Clare Mills-Grey Director of Programs

Clare has over 37 years of experience working in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Clare began her career working in the locked wards of the county mental health hospitals providing…

tactile and recreational therapy through the Bristol Airspace Project in England where she grew up. Inspired by the need for systemic change, Clare has dedicated her time and energy into being an advocate for change throughout the decades. Clare graduated college in 1986, majoring in child psychology, and soon thereafter moved to the USA, where she worked with the South Middlesex Arc in Boston as a case manager and program manager. At the Arc, Clare was first introduced to person-centered practices and self -determination. Clare and her team were able to implement these practices to successfully transition all participants into community settings within five years. Following her success at Arc, Clare moved to Southern California and began working for a non-profit organization in the South Bay. During her 23-year tenure with the non-profit, Clare held many positions, including Vice President and C.O.O., and was able to transition all the program participants from sheltered workshops to community-based settings and maintain the highest accreditation status through CARF. Clare has now served as Director of Programs for Peak Performance Training Center’s Inc. for the past four years and is committed to continuing her commitment to excellence, ensuring the individuals served have full access to the community and freedom of choice.

Kimberly Ponce Project Manager

Kimberly Ponce, the EMPACTT Project Manager, embarked on her career in the adult day service industry a decade ago. She began by working with students undergoing the transition from…

high school to adult services, focusing on intellectual and developmental disabilities. Demonstrating a quick grasp of the field, Kimberly swiftly advanced through the ranks. In just four months, she assumed the role of Time Studies Specialist, collaborating with the Labor Department, and took on the responsibilities of Accessibility Coordinator, ensuring the property’s full accessibility for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Kimberly expanded her expertise by working as a job coach, familiarizing herself with the regional center’s processes and procedures related to client resources and rights. This dedication led to her promotion to Habilitation Counselor and Case Manager, overseeing a diverse group of 80+ clients engaged in various employment opportunities, including supportive employment groups and independent roles. Her direct collaboration with auditors from regional centers and CARF surveyors further enriched her understanding of the field. Driven by a desire for continuous learning, Kimberly transitioned to working with more independent individuals seeking employment across various industries. In this role, she successfully empowered 6 to 12 individuals to visualize their ideal employment goals and secure paid internships. As the PAES (Practical Assessment Exploration System) Coordinator, Kimberly facilitates independent work on various tasks with different levels of difficulty. This assessment exploration creates a controlled environment, free from judgment, allowing individuals to try new things and expand their horizons.

Linda Whitford Certified 72-Hour Facilitator

Linda has over 25 years of experience working in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities. She consults organizations with compliance restoration.