Juli Ruppert once left her job at Typical Life Corporation for what seemed on paper to be a better opportunity. It offered more money, additional benefits, and work that aligned with her degree.
She lasted there two days.
“I just needed to go back to my job,” Juli says.
She left the new job on the second morning, drove straight to TLC, and asked if there was any way she could return. While her position had been filled, TLC leadership was eager to welcome her back to the team. It created a job just for her, and Juli has spent the years since making herself useful in any way she can.
As TLC’s Administrative Specialist, she is quick to jump in wherever she’s needed.
“I like to be that person that people can call and know that I’m not going to forget you,” Juli says. “I’m going to help take care of whatever you need.”
A role built around helping
Juli originally joined TLC in 2019 and worked in billing and coding of outpatient services. When that office closed, she made the case that her skills could be useful elsewhere in the organization.
Over the years, she has held several roles, including as a Direct Support Professional for the individuals whom TLC serves. Eventually, she moved into an administrative position designed specifically around her wide-ranging and ever-expanding capabilities.
“She kind of does everything,” says Chief Financial Officer Jonelle Gabsewics. “It just felt like she did more than any title could really cover.”
Each day, Juli travels to the York Day Program to deliver the mail and check in with individuals who attend activities. She works closely with Jeff Bass, Director of Properties and Purchasing, helping to monitor water and electrical sensors in TLC’s 28 residential homes. She recently negotiated new internet contracts for each home. When individuals move into a TLC residence, she often is the person who helps furnish their rooms and makes sure they have what they need.
“I love all of our individuals,” Juli says. “I could tell you every name of every individual that’s in this company.”
TLC operates 67 vehicles, and Juli helps support the fleet. She tracks where the vehicles are and whether inspections and maintenance are up to date. She also works with insurance partners to ensure that the fleet is in compliance and to keep costs in check.
“She’s very organized, very persistent,” says Jeff.
Those capabilities have expanded and made her invaluable as she looks after TLC’s fleet, properties, and systems.
Spotting needs before being asked
Juli is quick to help in an emergency. During major snowstorms, she has joined the maintenance team and pitched in with a shovel. When she notices a need, she addresses it. When staffers aren’t sure whom to go to, they go to Juli.
Despite all the spreadsheets, vehicles, sensors, and administrative responsibilities she manages, Juli brings cheerfulness to each endeavor. When she visits a residential home to update water sensors or check on a vehicle inspection, she is mindful that she is entering an individual’s home, not simply another TLC worksite.
“The energy that Juli brings to the organization is contagious,” Jonelle says. “She doesn’t just care about getting her job done. She truly cares about the people we support.”
Jeff believes that mindset is what makes Juli’s administrative contribution so significant. While the spreadsheets and systems are important, Juli’s ultimate goal is to support individuals in their daily lives. What makes her happy is knowing that her work can benefit a TLC individual or help a fellow employee through a difficult day.
“She truly cares to her core and reminds everyone why we’re here,” Jonelle says. “She leads with the mission first.”