Jeff Mendenhall looks downright intimidating and, indeed, with his history of martial arts and wrestling, he probably can back it up. But this incredible, real-life superhero instead chooses to save lives and to put his strength to good use helping others as a DSP.
His visual impairment might come as a surprise to some people (because he owns his space with confidence and compassion) but that makes sense because he doesn’t really pay it any heed himself. In fact, he makes it a point to tell any frustrated trainees that yes, he does know what it’s like. “Two days a week, I glove up.” he says with a grin. The three days a week that he isn’t gloving up to care for others, he works as an educator for LIFEDesigns employees in the Development Department.
History has led him from a lonely kid who was picked on, to a professional athlete, a stand-up comedian fronting for Jeff Foxworthy, a college graduate with several degrees, to a professorship, to working at LIFEDesigns, Inc. He tells us about his interview saying that Lisa and Hailey asked if he wanted to work in a more creative field.
Jeff’s days begin with some exercise and then his preparation for work begins. He is present to teach, informally advise, and help anyone who requires training. Jeff’s favorite part of his work is connecting to his clients, forming close bonds, learning about their beliefs and cultures, and discovering what’s happening in their lives. His big-hearted approach to his work with LIFEDesigns doesn’t extend only to people. He also loves and connects to our furry family as well, with one adorable cat named Harlequin, (named after the masked character from old style puppet shows.
Welcome to the team, Jeff!