Jermaine Johnson is the Respite Field Specialist for The Planning Council’s Military Respite Care Program. He works with Navy families that have children with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities by finding them a provider to offer respite. Unless you are caring for a child with a disability diagnosis, you may not understand how relentless and taxing parenting a child with special needs can be. It can significantly impact a parent’s mental and physical well-being due to higher level of demands than typical parenting – constant assistance with daily activities, routinely attending specialized care, costs associated with specialized care, navigating frequent behavioral disruptions, and more. Respite is a service offered to the Navy, “the backbone of our country,” and Jermaine is determined to see that they receive this benefit and that it is provided with the highest of quality.
The Military Respite Care Program represents the crux of TPC’s mission of identifying community needs, connecting people with solutions, and improving lives. Jermaine witnesses firsthand the tangible difference experienced by the families when a respite provider steps in. It’s rewarding to see the children’s excitement when the provider arrives and fulfilling to see the family utilizing an activity the provider introduced to the child. The Respite Program is like the culture at TPC, where in both you will experience a welcoming, family atmosphere where you feel seen, included, and given a voice.
Jermaine believes that “to be a good leader, you must be a good follower.” He does what is required of the team. Through those actions, he sets an example by putting his best foot forward. Jermaine is a sports enthusiast and brings his leader skills via his roles as a coach and umpire of youth baseball. Jermaine also enjoys going to the gym four-to-five times a week and singing.