Better Together Support Team
Who We Are
David Neely, Director
David grew up working in the IDD community by his witnessing his mother’s work in education. As a result of what he saw, David began his own career in the IDD community by supporting IDD students in the classroom as well. This eventually turned into him being a DSP in a group home and eventually to becoming the HR Director for another community living supports agency.
David has an educational background in psychology and business. It was his experience and education that eventually led him to start Better Together Supports. It is his belief that we were created to thrive in community and his vision is to lean on that truth for the benefit of BTS clients and DSP’s.
Richard Neely, Director of Finance
Richard has served various communities as a pastor, principle, teacher, and even a financial advisor. He has helped support members of the IDD community in school and social settings. Richard has an educational background in finance and Biblical studies. He is also a veteran of the United States Army.
Relations Team
Sarah Martinez, Client Relations Director
Sarah’s passion for service shines at Better Together Supports. With unparalleled customer care and organization as her greatest strengths, she goes the extra mile to creatively solve challenges for clients and staff alike.
Now, Sarah brings her knack for building connections to her role at Better Together. She thrives on investing in our DSPs, celebrating every shared success with clients, and embodying the belief that when we support each other, we all grow together. Her dedication has been pivotal to our journey, from 10 DSPs when she joined as our first internal employee to the vibrant organization we are today.
Janet Martinez, Bilingual Relationship Coordinator
Janet is our bilingual relationship coordinator. Her journey into this role is rooted in a deep commitment to fostering connections and enhancing support systems. Beyond her professional endeavors, Janet enjoys spending time with her children and family.Â
Her passion for seasonal decorating transforms her home around the year. She’s dedicated to maintaining a clean and orderly living space. With several thriving plants gracing her home, they breathe life into her surroundings
Sarah Walton, Relationship Coordinator
Meet Sarah Walton, our newest team member and a ray of sunshine! Sarah brings a wealth of experience and an upbeat attitude to Better Together Supports. As the ReCo for Clackamas, Multnomah, and Marion Counties, she’s already making waves and keeping everything on track.
Compliance Team
LauraLynn Ripoyla, DSP Compliance Director
LauraLynn initially joined BTS in 2023 on a temporary basis, but she quickly found herself enamored with the work and decided to make it a permanent gig. With over 13 years of experience as a CNA and MHTT under her belt, LauraLynn made a pivot back to education after her son began displaying signs of atypical development. This journey led her to dive into child development classes, ultimately culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Education.
Completing her student teaching stint in a school with high behavioral needs, LauraLynn brings a wealth of firsthand experience to her role. With a deep understanding as both a caregiver and a mother of a neurodivergent child, coupled with her educational background, she’s uniquely equipped to provide invaluable support to both clients and staff at BTS. Her ultimate goal? To witness everyone thriving together.
Danika Kennedy, Compliance Specialist
Danika’s dedication to special education sparked in Lebanon High School as a student aide and blossomed through her work in local schools. With two impactful years in residential treatment and another two as a behavior coach, she’s honed a keen sense for transformative care.Â
Now, Danika brings her passion for progress to Better Together as our Compliance Manager. She thrives on guiding our DSPs and celebrating every stride forward with our clients, embodying the belief that growth is a journey we share. Her role is central to our mission, shaping the framework of excellence and shared success that defines our community.
Linda Neely, Education Specialist
Linda, a former special education teacher with over 32 years of experience, brings a wealth of expertise and a deep passion to our team. Her career, deliberately pursued, began as a classroom assistant in California and progressed to a respected educator specializing in behavior disorders and high school education.
Retiring in 2019, Linda chose to continue her work with the IDD community, applying her extensive knowledge and skills. Renowned for her respect, humor, and unwavering commitment, Linda excels in positively impacting challenging environments. Her dedication to teaching and empowering individuals with disabilities remains the foundation of her impressive career.
Rachel Linder, Education Specialist
Rachel Linder is the calming and grounding presence in our team. As our newest Washington County Education Specialist, she brings a sense of assurance to everything she does. Rachel’s calm demeanor spreads through the team, making her a trusted resource. For clients in Washington County, Rachel is your go-to contact!
Erin Rolik, Education Specialist
Erin is our newest Clackamas County Education Specialist, bringing her upbeat personality and go-to attitude to the team. Currently working on her Master’s in Special Education, Erin is a rising star in the field, and we’re excited to see her grow. If you have clients in Clackamas County, reach out to Erin!
Resource Team
Jackie Gundlach, Resource Manager
Jackie has been a stay-at-home mom and school volunteer for the last 11 years, but she is ready to dive back into the workforce, leveraging her previous experience. She previously worked as a substitute instructional assistant for the local school district and as a records and eligibility specialist at a nonprofit mental health and alcohol treatment facility. Jackie is excited to bring her skills to the Better Together Supports Team as an executive assistant and resource manager.
Anna Neely, Media and Marketing Specialist
Anna brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to Better Together Supports. Recently, she was the campus director of an all-inclusive private school, focusing on meeting the diverse needs of every student. Her event planning experience reflects her commitment to community engagement, promoting connection and inclusivity. Anna is dedicated to making a meaningful impact for DSPs and client families, embodying the values of compassion, empowerment, and advocacy.
Sarah Noel, Resource Specialist
Sarah Noel started as a DSP with BTS but quickly made her mark with her incredible organizational skills and knack for finding information. Now, as our Resource Specialist, she works magic sourcing resources for DSPs, internal staff, and clients/guardians. From projects to people, Sarah has it covered!