Support council
Family Model Support Council
“Group Effort values the input of our community. To ensure we are meeting the evolving needs of those we serve, we have established a Support Council. This diverse group includes valuable perspectives from Family Model Providers, individuals we support, community members, and social service professionals. The Council meets quarterly to provide guidance on our Family Model program and strategic direction, helping us continually improve and better serve our community.”
Current Support Council Members
Edith "edie" Ellis
I am Edith Ellis, affectionately known as Edie. I am the mother of SaMel McClain and the grandmother of Laurence, Joya, and the late SaMiya. I have been a Family Model Provider with Group Effort of Tennessee since 2019. I aspire to meet and exceed state audits while contributing to Group Effort’s growth and pursuit of excellence.
I have always been a team player with a history of personal and professional growth in my employment. I attained the position of Lieutenant with the Department of Corrections in Louisiana and also served as General Manager and Training Manager at Popeyes Chicken Inc. in New Orleans, Louisiana. Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in New Orleans, I now reside in Tennessee. I bring a wealth of knowledge, extensive experience, and a mean pot of gumbo to the table. I am a friend’s friend. My personality is full of love and laughter, however, all of that comes after the “business” is completed in its entirety.
Laura Grant
Hello, my name is Laura Grant. Over the past 40 years, I have been privileged to work with great teams in the following areas: Social Work: Family Model Provider, Family Model Coordinator, Case Management Supervisor (Mental Health, Child Protective Services, Crisis/Disaster Relief), Group Home Supervisor, Juvenile Lock-up Facility Supervisor, Housing Monitor, and Direct Support Professional. Academia/Administrative/Other: Residence Hall Director, Hotel Management, and Administrative Assistant. I enjoy making a difference in the lives of others and endeavor to encourage individuals to lead full lives.
Dustin Thomason
Dustin Thomason joined Group Effort as a Family Model Provider in 2022, building on his experience in the field of developmental disabilities that began in 2011. Starting as a Direct Support Professional, Dustin has developed a deep appreciation for the unique challenges and rewards of this work. With a degree in Art, he strives to bring creativity and fresh perspectives to his role every day.