New VP of HR

We are pleased to announce that Shaunna Monts is our new Vice President of Human Resources & Professional Development.  In this role, Shaunna will oversee all of the agency’s HR initiatives compliance, while ensuring HR is aligned with Venture’s vision.

 Shaunna brings over 15 years of professional experience to Venture and has a strong history of human resource management that includes strategic initiatives, employee retention programs, labor relations, policy management and employee development.

She most recently served as The Director of Human Resources for Wellmore Behavioral Health where she served an employee base of 350 people who provided clinical and home-based treatment to those in need.  Shaunna has also held positions in the HR field at Community Health Resources, The Metropolitan District and American Medical Response.  She has served on the Diversity Committee of the Human Resources Association of Central Connecticut, the African- American Affairs Commission and on the board of Jewish Family Services.

 “We are very pleased to have Shaunna join our Senior Management Team,” said Venture President & CEO Mike Hyland.  “Shauna brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to Venture’s workforce and mission.”

Shaunna received a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development & Family Resources from University of Connecticut in Storrs and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from the University of New Haven as well as a Master of Business Administration from the University of Hartford in West Hartford, CT.

Thank You Hoyt Foundation 2020!

COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM

Made possible by donations from the Hoyt Foundation.


Venture is proud to report that the Community Outreach Program has grown tremendously over the 2019—2020 fiscal year.  The goal of this unique program is provide free social and recreational opportunities to both adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  During the past year, the program has provided:


  • Two free yoga classes monthly to children in the Blackstone Valley region
  • Six free yoga classes monthly to adult participants of our three day programs
  • Once-monthly therapeutic drum circles and live music for kids
  • Once-monthly therapeutic drum circles and live music for adult participants of our three day programs
  • Sensory-friendly Halloween Party and Spring Fling family fun events for kids and their families
  • Cooking classes and craft programs for kids and their families
  • An instructor-led Paint Night was enjoyed by more than 30 adults for each the spring and fall session
  • Herb gardening and Thanksgiving centerpiece creations hosted by Bemis Farms Nursery for more than 50 adults
  • Activities for day program participants such as projects with local artists, tai chi and more
  • More than 130 adults from our programs as well as the community at large attended both the Summer Luau and Winter Wonderland dances