In recognition of Women’s Equality Day on August 26, members of our IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) Committee reflected on the women who have shaped their lives and inspired their commitment to service.
For Alex Pettit, a Supports Planner at Service Coordination, Inc., that woman is his mother, JoAnna Eanes-Pettit, a lifelong example of resilience, compassion, and unwavering support.
“When I think of a woman who has shaped the way I live my life, no one comes close to my mom,” Alex shared. “Her strength and belief in me have made all the difference.”
Raised by his mother, Alex grew up with strong encouragement to explore his passions, whether it was sports, creative interests, or leadership opportunities. JoAnna always showed up, pushing him to pursue his goals and live with confidence.
“She wasn’t just Wonder Woman, but she was also Superman,” juggling responsibilities of a family, while also successfully earning a college degree and providing Alex an upbringing filled with love and opportunity.
“She was my number one supporter,” Alex says. “She always fueled my curiosity to try new things and taught me to give my all.”
JoAnna also raised Alex to be deeply connected to family values and service beyond her own family. Becoming a foster parent, she opened her home to children with complex medical needs, advocating for their educational and mental health supports.
“I have three younger adopted brothers now,” Alex says. “They all face their own battles with mental health disorders, and my Mom advocates for them to receive the resources they need, which can be challenging for individuals with learning disabilities. She’s raised my brothers with the same compassion and strength she gave me. Her commitment to family and to advocating for what’s right has shaped how I approach my own work.”
Alex also credits his mother with instilling values that continue to guide him today.
“Everything I am, is because of my mom,” Alex shares. “She always told me to stay true to myself and lead with empathy, and those are values I try to carry into every relationship, both personally and professionally. “
On Women’s Equality Day, we celebrate women like JoAnna, whose leadership, care for others, and belief in doing what’s right leave a lasting legacy across generations.