Angela Pao-Johnson, MERCI Executive Director, will talk about MERCI’s Strategic Plan including connecting participants more with the community at the East Los Angeles-Montebello Business and Professional Women’s dinner meeting Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at the Library Room, Marie Callender’s Restaurant, 220 S. Atlantic Blvd., Monterey Park (Networking starts at 4:30 p.m. with dinner at 5:00 p.m.). Attendees will be able to order off the menu. The program and dinner is open to all interested people. Call or E-mail Linda Wilson (626) 307-5650 or lindalwilson@juno.com to make a reservation or for questions.

Pao-Johnson will provide an update on the MERCI’s Strategic Plan. In the forthcoming year, MERCI aims to broaden its services to encompass a wider group of adults with developmental disabilities. Plans will be discussed regarding the establishment of a

small gym facility to promote health and wellness. Additionally, strategies will focus on community integration with detailing tailored volunteer opportunities that align with individual interests and capabilities. A pivotal aspect of the presentation will be the introduction of MERCI’s Unity Gardens initiative. This transformative program seeks to connect residents and participants with developmental disabilities to the broader community, emphasizing inclusivity, emotional well-being, and essential skills for independence and community engagement.
Pao-Johnson has dedicated 20 years to serving individuals with developmental disabilities and holds a board certification as a behavior analyst. Previously, she served as the Chief Executive Officer of an agency that provided behavior therapy for children with autism across four states. Transitioning to nonprofit work, Angela is now committed to addressing the needs of adults with developmental disabilities, a growing population facing significant underfunding. She currently serves as the Executive Director of MERCI, directing her expertise and experience towards advancing the organization’s mission.

East Los Angeles-Montebello BPW is a member of the California Federation of Business and Professional Women (CFBPW) and also a member of the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, inc. (NFBPWC) and BPW International. NFBPWC is 104-years-old this year and is the oldest organization of its kind in the world; devoted entirely and actively to the interests and needs of all women irrespective of their occupations and of their status. Our mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information. Today, we continue the fight for passage of the Equal Rights Amendment, the ratification of the CEDAW treaty and equal pay for women. Membership is open to anyone who supports this and other items on our Public Policy Statement. For more information about BPW, contact Linda Wilson, East Los Angeles-Montebello BPW, at (626) 307-5650 or lindalwilson@juno.com.