Meet the Team
Carmela Toler
CEO/President
Hello, my name is Carmela Toler. I have been providing support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for about 40 years and I have greatly loved my work. A little background about myself starts with my growing up in Indiana and attending Indiana University, where I received a Bachelor of Science in Forensics and later a Master of Science in Organizational Management and Development from Indiana Wesleyan. I am no longer married, but was fortunate enough to have had two daughters, Sataria age 31 and Noni age 23. They bring lots of joy to my life, while my education and experiences has given me the tools to do my best work.
I began serving individuals with disabilities in Ohio as Case Management. In 1987 I began working as a manager for a company in New York City called Aid to the Developmentally Disabled (ADD), in their Group Home and then Supported Living Program.
After New York I worked as a supervisor at Vocation/Day Services in Florida and then back to Indianapolis in 1991 to begin work for St. Vincent New Hope, serving in Group Homes and assisting with the closing of the Institution. In 1992 the State of Indiana received their first Medicaid waivers and St. Vincent New Hope received “20 slots” that began Supported Living. St. Vincent New Hope closed the institution and moved everyone into the community. I have worked as Chief of the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities, State of Indiana; Vice President, Arbitre Consulting and now CEO of LEL Home Services LLC, Indiana, New Mexico, and Ohio.
My training spans the same time frame but was greatly impacted from the very beginning in New York. There was an expose done by Geraldo Rivera called “Willowbrook”. This material instantly became the foundation of my training and gave me a clear understanding of the effects of institutional behavior and the medical model for people with disabilities. Willowbrook was such a compelling nightmare that I vowed to do all that I could to help mitigate the effects of institutional treatment. Additionally, in 1991 I was introduced to Social Role Valorization (SRV). The state of Indiana Department of Disabilities and Rehabilitative Services offered grants to all providers so that all service providers would have this training. This training became foundational to all my work helping managers and Direct Service professions (DSP’S) understand how to bring value to the people they serve by affording them the everyday opportunities like you and I have. That includes the “Dignity of Risk” so people with disabilities have those opportunities for a greater understanding of who they are and who they can become, not only being a “CLIENT.” I hope to continue to learn from the people I serve and to ultimately leave behind a legacy of how we should value individuals with disabilities and that doing so is not that hard.
Cindy Carter
Vice President
Thirty-five years ago, Cindy started her journey in this field as a Direct Support Professional supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. While attending school, Cindy worked a 48-hour shift every weekend. The provider promoted her to Group Home Manager. Her career path then took her to Park Center, a comprehensive mental health facility. As an Assertive Aftercare Case Manager, Cindy collected information on intensive community supports to reduce short-term and long-term psychiatric hospitalizations. This data supported the implementation of the Home and Community Based Services Waiver in Indiana. In addition to working for residential providers, Cindy provided ICAP evaluations assessing the complexity of individuals’ support needs. Cindy and her husband, Sammie, live in Fishers with three young adult children Noah, Sabrina, and Sammie Q. Prior to joining LEL Home Services, she served as Indiana’s Director of Facility-Based Services supporting agencies providing services to over 3000 individuals. Cindy champions Social Role Valorization, Life-Course, and Person-centeredness principles to support LEL’s Vision of “Inclusion without explanation!” Cindy is currently the Chief Operating Officer at LEL Home Services and an International Social Role Valorization Association advocate.
Avery Williams
CFO
Avery is an accomplished CFO with over 25 years of experience in finance, accounting, and operations. Avery has held several senior positions throughout his career, including CFO, Director of Finance, Controller, and Operations Manager, where he demonstrated his strong leadership skills, excellent analytical ability, and problem-solving skills.
Avery’s areas of expertise include cash management, financial reporting, and risk management. Avery has a proven track record of successfully navigating complex financial challenges, identifying opportunities for improvement, and implementing solutions that deliver measurable results.
Avery is a graduate of the University of Indianapolis, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, and an Associate’s degree in Computer Science.
When he’s not working, Avery enjoys spending time with his family, and attending Highschool and College sporting events.
Jenny Maddux
Chief Operating Officer
Jenny has worked with individuals with intellectual disabilities since 1999. After graduating from Hanover College, Jenny became an Employment Specialist for three years and took great pride in supporting individuals in gaining meaningful employment.
Jenny was a day program manager for 14 years and supported individuals in enhancing their skills so they could live out their best lives. Jenny is grateful for the life lessons she learned while being a day program manager but most importantly for the life-long friendships she has made along the way.
In 2016, Jenny joined the LEL Family. Jenny loves the opportunity to work for an organization that truly values all people and where you truly feel like you are family. LEL has not only impacted Jenny’s professional life. The philosophy of Social Role Valorization is what sets LEL apart and has given Jenny the opportunity to see life through a whole new lens.
Jenny has been a volunteer for Special Olympics for 24 years. She also is member of the Arc of Decatur County’s executive board as well as secretary for Tree County Players, the local playhouse in her hometown of Greensburg. Lastly, Jenny serves on the promotions committee of Mainstreet Greensburg, an Indiana-based, non-profit organization that focuses on the revitalization and preservation of the downtown area of Greensburg, Indiana.
Both Jenny and her husband, Ryan are proud of their one daughter, Katherine who is active in her junior high as well as her community. Jenny and Ryan have a love for their hometown and enjoy volunteering together in different capacities to make their community the best it can be.
Tehea Harding
Controller
Tehea Harding is a transformational financial leader with over 20 years of experience in accounting, finance, human resources, DEI, and operations. She is recognized for her strategic vision, analytical expertise, and collaborative leadership, driving organizational improvements across various sectors, particularly in the nonprofit industry.
Tehea has held key leadership roles, including Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at EmployIndy, where she managed a $40+ million budget across multiple funding streams, led financial oversight, and spearheaded operational strategies. Her leadership in financial compliance ensured adherence to GAAP, Uniform Grant Guidance, and U.S. Department of Labor regulations.
A strong advocate for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), Tehea launched and served as an executive sponsor for a 14-member affinity group, developing a comprehensive action plan to foster inclusive workplaces. Her efforts in financial stewardship and organizational transformation earned her the prestigious CFO of the Year award (2021) from the Indianapolis Business Journal.
In addition to her executive roles, Tehea is an adjunct professor at Marian University’s Saint Joseph’s College, sharing her financial expertise with future leaders. She also serves on the boards of Westside Community Development and Drug Free Marion County, demonstrating her strong commitment to community service.
Tehea is the owner of Financial Resources Group, a consulting firm specializing in accounting, tax services, and operational efficiencies for businesses and nonprofit organizations. She also worked as a consultant for NowCFO.
Tehea holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Accounting from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Martin University. With a reputation for strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving, and leadership, she continues to drive excellence in finance and organizational strategy.
Personally, Tehea is married with 4 adult children and 2 grandkids and loves to travel, read, cook, and shop.
Simone Wimberly
Executive Director of Human Resources
Simone has over 15 years of human resources experience in the healthcare industry, specializing in talent acquisition, employee engagement, employee relations, and performance management. Passionate about workforce development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), she is committed to fostering high-performing, inclusive workplaces.
Known for her excellent communication skills and approachable demeanor, Simone serves as a trusted resource for employees seeking guidance. She stays at the forefront of HR trends and best practices, ensuring her strategies are both effective and forward-thinking. With a results-driven mindset, she has successfully implemented employee development programs and streamlined HR processes, driving organizational success.
Beyond her professional work, Simone is dedicated to giving back to her community. She actively volunteers at local shelters supporting women and children affected by domestic violence and is deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Simone is a proud HBCU graduate, Simone earned her bachelor’s degree from Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, AL. She holds dual master’s degrees in Communications and Health Services Administration from Mississippi College and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Indiana Wesleyan University.
Simone is married and enjoys supporting her young adult daughter in her endeavors.
Carrie Tackett
Executive Director of Administration
Carrie Tackett joined LEL Home Service in March 2019, bringing to LEL her wealth of career experiences across the realms of child welfare and women’s health. She is a skilled administrator who is known for being able to accomplish any project with excellence and grace. Additionally, she has been a professional baker and still finds her happy place in the kitchen. LEL’s commitment to improving the lives of others spoke deeply to her and drives her work supporting the company. Outside of work, she spends as much time as possible with her dog, Darby, enjoys the outdoors through hiking and gardening, and traveling with her husband.
Valerie Smith
Executive Director of Compliance and Accreditation
Valerie Smith started her work in the Human Services field in Colorado 2007 and has worked in a variety of residential and community programs. She joined LEL in December 2018 at the start of LEL’s New Mexico expansion of services (which ended in 2021). In her initial role as Service Coordinator, Valerie was instrumental in partnering with individuals, families, DSPs, community agencies and the state, educating them about LEL Home Services and how we help individuals live their best lives.
Since October 2020, Valerie was excited to transition to LEL’s administration office providing support in overseeing quality and compliance across all services. Valerie is passionate about quality initiatives, performance measurement, ongoing process improvement and strategic planning. She is thrilled to expand Social Role Valorization (SRV) teachings across the organization, having broadened her knowledge through PASSING, attending various workshops in Model Coherency, Medical Safeguarding, the Sanctity of Life, and even teaching SRV Leadership and Model Coherency at an international level. One of her most proud professional achievements was to speak at the 2025 SRV International Conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia on LEL’s Exploring the Power of Social Roles workshop, alongside colleague Jenny Maddux. Valerie is a certified Crisis Prevention and Intervention Instructor.
She shares a home with her husband, daughter, dogs and a micro-pot belly pig in Sharpsville, Indiana. Valerie grew up in a military family and even attended school overseas, where she developed her love for travel. She has been to various countries, including Belgium, Germany, France, Scotland, Japan, Australia and even got to see the late Queen Elizabeth in England!
Leslie Holleman
Executive Directive of Strategic Initiatives
Leslie began her career in human services in 1995 as a Direct Support Professional. After earning her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University, she continued her work in the disability services field, building extensive experience through roles with INARF, First Steps, and Medicaid Waiver Case Management. In 2025, Leslie earned her MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS), further strengthening her leadership and strategic expertise.
Leslie joined LEL in 2014 as a Program Manager and quickly developed a strong passion for creating high-quality programming that empowers individuals to live their best lives. She became the first Program Manager at LEL dedicated to Program Development and played a key role in launching Inclusion and Engagement initiatives within the organization. Her work has focused on designing innovative programs that encourage individuals to grow, succeed, and fully participate in their communities. Today, Leslie serves as the Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives at LEL, where she leads efforts to drive organizational growth, innovation, and strategic expansion across the organization.
Leslie’s commitment to serving others is deeply rooted in both her professional and personal experiences. Her oldest son, Chris, was diagnosed with the rare condition Glut1 Transporter Deficiency Syndrome after a ten-year diagnostic journey. This experience fueled Leslie’s passion for helping families access resources and support. Alongside her husband, Lloyd, and other families across the United States, Leslie helped establish the Glut1 Deficiency Foundation and currently serves as a board member.
Outside of her professional work, Leslie enjoys spending time with her husband, Lloyd, and their four sons—Chris, Ryan, Luke, and Sam—as well as their two dogs. In her free time, she enjoys community theatre, writing, singing, and spending time outdoors. Leslie is also a volunteer with Special Olympics and remains actively involved in her Westfield community.
Clark Taylor
Organizational Readiness Specialist
Clark Taylor is an Organizational Readiness Specialist who assists LEL Home Services (LEL) to drive change, and manage resistance in preventive, proactive, and responsive ways. He began employment with LEL in May 2013 and is multifaceted in the work he does and committed to excellence.
He began his professional career as a Job Coach for friends referred by organizations in Central Indiana, including Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services, The Private Industry Council of Madison County, Janus Developmental Services of Noblesville, The Criminal Justice Center of Madison County, and Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana to name a few. Clark also worked for a variety of companies including Oscar L. Taylor Plastering, Delco-Remy, Fisher-Guide, Chevrolet Truck and Bus, Urban League of Madison County, American Trans Air (ATA), Roth Young Personnel, as well as self-employment.
Clark learned, at an early age, to be resourceful, work hard, be respectful, to love Jesus and be a servant leader to all in his community. He volunteered with the Mayor’s Council for Economic Development, the Anderson (Indiana) Chamber of Commerce, Sherman Street Church of God, and Anderson Packers Adult Tackle Football Program.
Clark’s family includes five (5) adult daughters, ten (10) grandchildren, and two great grandchildren…”The Brady Bunch in Living Color”! He and his wonderful wife, Nancy (The Boss) have been in love for over thirty-two (32) years. They are dedicated to their family and remain actively involved day-to-day. Both Nancy and Clark value a commitment to the “Golden-Rule” and show kindness and love continually to family, friends and neighbors.
Ball State University (BSU) – Muncie, Indiana is where Clark attended and majored in Political Science/Sociology and minored in African American Studies. He attended BSU while working to support his young family. Clark is a Viet Nam veteran who worked on assault helicopters and served proudly in the U.S. Army. He is a “scrapper”; enjoys working in his “shop”.
Finally, Clark believes in serving and accepting all individuals, and showing genuine love, compassion, and respect.
