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By DANIEL LOCKE | Staff Writer

The Arc of Shelby County’s Director of Children’s Services Jenny Terrell was selected to United Way of Central Alabama’s LEARN United cohort.

LEARN United, which stands for leadership education and readiness for nonprofits, is an intensive 12-week program designed to sharpen the leadership skills of managers from different United Way partner agencies.

The honor of being selected is something Terrell takes a great deal of pride in, as it makes her feel seen for the hard work she does.

“Being recognized through the LEARN United leadership cohort is truly an honor,” Terrell said. “It validates the work that so many of us in the nonprofit sector do each day, often behind the scenes, with deep passion and commitment. To be part of this inaugural group means that our efforts to grow, lead and serve are being seen and supported. It’s empowering and humbling at the same time.”

Terrell had ample opportunity to sharpen her professional skills throughout the cohort, but the relationships she developed during the process stick out in her mind as well.

“The program challenged me to think more strategically and grow not only as a supervisor but as a leader who can help build stronger teams and deeper impact,” Terrell said. “One of the most meaningful parts of the experience was the opportunity to meet and truly connect with other leaders from area nonprofits. Even though this was a professional training, we all took it a step further to really get to know one another.”

Working with The Arc has allowed Terrell to help make an impact in the community, particularly with children dealing with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as their families.

“My journey with The Arc of Shelby County has been deeply meaningful,” Terrell said. “Over the years, I’ve seen how dedicated our team is to making a difference, not just for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but for their families and the broader community. It’s an organization that lives its mission every day, and I’m proud to be part of that legacy.”

As The Arc’s director of children’s services, Terrell has built a significant amount of experience working with disabled youth. Serving them and their families brings her happiness and allows her to see her work pay off in a meaningful way.

“Working with children, especially those with developmental delays or special needs, is incredibly fulfilling,” Terrell said. “Every small step of progress, whether it’s a child learning to communicate for the first time or a family feeling more confident about navigating resources, feels like a major victory. We celebrate every “inchstone” and milestone. It’s a joy to witness the resilience and potential of every child we serve, and it’s a privilege to walk alongside their families during such an important time in their lives.”

Terrell is thankful to those who have helped her along on her journey of serving children with disabilities, as they help equip her to make a difference in the lives of those she serves.

“I’m incredibly grateful to my colleagues at The Arc of Shelby County who work so hard every day and constantly inspire me,” Terrell said. “A special thank you to Jeannine Lyons, our Executive Director, for her leadership, support and belief in professional growth. She has been instrumental in helping me reach this point. I’d also like to thank Kathy Boswell and Allie Nanni for creating such a meaningful and intentional leadership experience, and the team at United Way for organizing the sessions and investing in the development of nonprofit leaders.”

The Arc, as well as Shelby County as a whole, has been benefited by Terrell’s service. Her selection to LEARN United is a testament to that service and commitment to bettering the lives of those The Arc exists to help.