Mona Wilkerson ~ Director of Fundraising

Mona Wilkerson is the Director of Fundraising for the Council, with responsibilities as the event coordinator for Art from the Heart.

Mona started her career after graduating from Western Kentucky University
with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Mona began her involvement in the community working
as volunteer with Special Olympics at the Summer Games at WKU. Her message to Council constituents: “The most important role in my life is being a wife, mother, and advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities. My husband Danny and I have three children; Danielle 20-yrs, Gabrielle (Gabby) 18-yrs. and Gregory 15-yrs. They are our pride and joy. Danielle has Down syndrome. Regardless of her disabilities, we have always focused on her abilities, which are many. Over my nineteen years with Danielle, I have gained a great deal of knowledge and experience that I would like to share with other mothers, fathers and guardians meeting the challenges of raising a child or adult with developmental disabilities.

The Council on Developmental Disabilities is a valuable resource for children and adults with various intellectual disabilities, autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and other developmental and physical disabilities. We are here to serve you; we are your biggest advocate.

I am also an active member of the Disability Ministry for Saint Patrick Catholic Community, Board Member of Best Buddies of Kentucky, Special Olympics Kentucky and Mom’s Night Out (supporting mothers of children with Down syndrome). Through my unwavering faith and abilities I appreciate the fact that everyone is capable of something exceptional; especially with the support and encouragement of friends and
family. I have learned that this support network is one of the most valuable assets
anyone can and should have, regardless of one’s abilities and disabilities.

My lifelong commitment to people with intellectual disabilities also taught me that there is no greater joy that the satisfaction of contributing one’s time and energy to the enhancement of another person’s life. The act of giving is the most rewarding manner by which to conduct each of our lives. My daughter Danielle’s indelible spirit provides me guidance each day with commitment, conviction and love for people with disabilities and I will always strive to be a good advocate.”

“It is the mission of The Council to initiate positive change on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities.”