Quality Assurance and Staff Development will focus on maintaining high standards
Paula Knode joins Ridge Area Arc in a newly established position, Quality Assurance and Staff Development. Knode brings extensive experience in the field of human services, including her previous role as Residential Program Manager at The Arc of Washington County, where she oversaw residential programming and supported individuals in achieving greater independence and quality of life. With a strong background in staff leadership, program oversight, and service quality, Knode is well-equipped to strengthen Ridge Area Arc’s commitment to excellence.
In her new role, Knode will be responsible for enhancing quality assurance measures across programs, supporting compliance efforts, and developing staff training initiatives to ensure employees are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to provide exceptional care and services. She will also play a key role in fostering professional development, promoting best practices, and strengthening organizational standards to better serve the individuals and families supported by Ridge Area Arc.
“Ridge Area Arc is no stranger to pursuing quality measures. We have been doing that in this community since 1957. But having somebody formalize our processes means we can remain relevant for families now, as the landscape of disability care changes, and into the future. This position will
ensure our staff has the ability to grow and thrive while pursuing their purpose in the everyday work of caring for people with disabilities,” said Kathleen Border, CEO of Ridge Area Arc.
“I have worked with individuals with intellectual disabilities for more than 10 years, and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Being able to support others, help them grow, and make a positive difference in their daily lives has given me a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment,” said Knode.
Her goals are to strengthen staff development by fostering a positive learning environment where employees feel supported, confident, and well-prepared to provide high-quality, person-centered services. Knode is passionate about helping staff grow through training, coaching, and leadership development. She also enjoys evaluating and improving systems, as well as creating innovative programming to better meet the evolving needs of the disability community while enhancing the effectiveness of staff and services.
Knode holds a Bachelor’s Degree from University of Maryland Global Campus. In her spare time, she enjoys visiting the beach, searching for seashells, and relaxing near the water. She and her husband recently relocated to Florida and have a blended family that includes four daughters, one son, and one very special grandson.
An outdoor enthusiast, Knode loves spending time in nature and enjoying Florida’s sunshine. She also proudly embraces being a Disney adult, enjoying visits to the parks, collecting Disney memorabilia, and keeping a little Disney magic alive in everyday life. Reflecting her optimistic outlook and love of inspiration, one of her favorite sayings is, “All your dreams can come true, if you have the courage to pursue them,” by Walt Disney.
Ridge Area Arc is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1957 by Franklyn Ward and Mary Ellen Ward. Today, Ridge Area Arc is the largest and most comprehensive provider of services and supports for nearly 200 individuals and families across Highlands County and surrounding communities. The agency is dedicated to promoting opportunities, independence, and an enhanced quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through compassionate, person-centered services and advocacy. Ridge Area Arc envisions a community where every individual and family affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities has access to the information, advocacy, resources, and life skills needed to thrive as active citizens and engaged members of their community. For more information about Ridge Area Arc and its programs and services, please call 863-452-1295.
