Jill Novotny

Jill’s passion for supporting people with developmental disabilities began in childhood, shaped by the love and care she provided to her younger brother, Nicky. Growing up alongside Nicky gave Jill a deep understanding of the importance of dignity, advocacy, and meaningful support, an understanding that would become the foundation of her life’s work. From an early age, she understood that the compassion nurtured within her own family could extend far beyond it, allowing her to touch and improve the lives of many.

Jill’s professional journey formally began in 2003 when she stepped into the role of Support Coordinator during New Jersey’s pilot of self‑direction and support coordination through DDD. What started as a new career path quickly became a calling. As the system evolved, Jill walked alongside individuals and families through every change, offering steady guidance, reassurance, and a deeply person‑centered approach. Over the next two decades, she not only supported people directly but also led teams of Support Coordinators with warmth, clarity, and genuine care - helping shape services that honored each person’s voice and vision for their own life. Her work has touched hundreds of individuals and families, each one benefiting from her commitment to collaboration, respect, and truly individualized support.

Throughout her career, Jill has worked alongside dedicated, compassionate professionals who have taught, challenged, and inspired her to grow. She has shared her knowledge just as generously, always believing collaboration is essential to meaningful support. Her belief that every person deserves a life of purpose, dignity, and joy has never wavered. That combination of personal experience, professional leadership, and genuine compassion continues to guide her work.