For years, True Link has been on a mission to empower professionals who support their clients’ independence and well-being. As a part of that mission, True Link offers an annual grant to support those who are actively working to promote standards, collaboration, transparency, and robust systems of oversight in person-centered support. It’s awarded to field-builders — those advancing the field through the implementation and dissemination of best practices that support guardians, trustees, and the individuals they work to serve day in and day out.

We're thrilled to announce that Karen Cramer has been selected as this year's recipient of the True Link Grant for Best Practices in Person-Centered Support!

Karen currently serves as a Representative Payee at The Arc of Bay County. Before joining, she spent years working as a bookkeeper and actively supporting her community. In her current role, she manages the finances of nearly 200 individuals living with intellectual disabilities, using modern technology and an empathetic, hands-on approach to help them navigate life's challenges. During her time at the Arc of Bay County, a few of her accomplishments include:

Modernizing system and improving organizational culture

Karen helped transform the Arc of Bay County into a more welcoming, efficient organization. By moving the agency away from paper checks and stamps toward modern technology like True Link, automated payments, and Excel tracking, she helped the organization cut down on administrative busywork and was able to offer clients more independence in their lives. This shift didn't just streamline how the Arc of Bay County team manages everyday needs for nearly 200 people, it helped adjust the agency’s culture and created a more inviting space where clients feel respected and staff have more time to focus on real, person-centered planning.

Stepping up with hands-on support and care

Going beyond managing the money, Karen consistently steps in with compassionate, hands-on support for clients in need. One recent example of her work is helping guide a young adult dealing with substance abuse into stable housing, treatment, and part-time work by mixing financial planning with consistent encouragement. In another instance, she stepped up for an isolated, hospitalized client by personally assisting her recovery and taking care of her pets, helping build a deep level of trust.

Expanding advocacy and building community support

Thanks to time saved by upgrading internal systems, Karen was able to spend time expanding the agency's impact. She makes sure clients are able to receive more holistic care by teaming up with local mental health organizations to facilitate person-centered planning meetings. And when clients run into roadblocks, Karen is happy to show up for them outside the office, whether that means advocating for them in court, helping them secure tax exemptions, or even launching a “makeshift” food delivery service to bridge the gap during a benefit shutdown. She is deeply committed to making sure every aspect of her clients' well-being is taken care of.

"This grant will help to further money management education with our clients and fund improved technology for our payee office.  It is an honor to serve as a representative payee and help support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to thrive."

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With this grant, we hope to amplify the voices of those who are leading the field to achieve its highest aspirations for person-centered support, helping promote transparency and personal decision making, and enhancing the lives of individuals every day.

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