Janet joins us with decades of executive experience in non-profit management. She has held senior positions with two major Long Island organizations providing services to people with special needs and is well-known and respected for her expertise and passion for this important mission.
“I couldn’t be more excited to join an organization with such a rich history of innovative and exceptional strategies in supporting early childhood development and education. Long Island communities and their families have always sought to ensure comprehensive and meaningful supports are available to our children,” said Janet Koch.
“I will work with them and VCLC to continue to raise the bar, helping our kids to reach new milestones and accolades as they develop and grow,” she added.
Most recently, Janet spent eight years as CEO of Life’s WORC, an organization that supports more than one thousand people with autism and other intellectual and developmental challenges here on Long Island. Prior to her CEO role she was CFO for five years, and before joining Life’s WORC she was part of the senior management team at FREE (Family Residences & Essential Enterprises). Janet has a bachelor’s degree from Dowling College and a master’s degree from LIU.
“I have spent my career navigating regulatory and funding challenges while keeping the needs of the people we support at the forefront of decision-making. It’s not always easy to do, but with talented and caring people around you, as are the educators and staff at VCLC, together with families we will undoubtedly continue to thrive for many years to come,” said Janet.
She is active in a wide range of community organizations, with a special focus on education and services for people with special needs. Janet has received numerous awards for organizational excellence and leadership. Most importantly, she has long-standing admiration for our school, our staff and all the amazing work done here every day.
“While helping adults with special needs has been my passion for years, I now have the joy of working with children every day.” said Janet Koch.
As a parent of three children, Janet is aware of what it takes to guide children through their developing years. “I know the immense love, care and concern parents have for their children. We want them to have all they could ever dream of with minimal difficulties along the way. I now have the often hard but wonderfully rewarding responsibility to be a small part in providing that to them.”
Janet’s mission is clear to anyone seeing her interact with the Variety children. “The smiles and hugs make every day worthwhile!” added Janet.
