Our Team
The work of UpSide Collective is carried forward by people who care deeply about creating meaningful opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Our team is committed to serving with professionalism, compassion, and integrity while creating a culture where every person is treated with dignity and care.
Jon Steffey serves as the Executive Director of UpSide Collective. He has dedicated his career to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the families who love them. What began as a summer job at just 15 years old grew into a life’s work rooted in advocacy, dignity, belonging, and the belief that every person deserves a seat at the table of life.
Over the years, Jon has worked across many facets of this field, giving him a broad and grounded perspective on what meaningful support truly requires. He has seen this work from the classroom to the living room, from the van routes to the boardroom, and that depth of experience continues to shape his leadership today. He understands both the day-to-day realities individuals and families face and the broader vision needed to create programs that are thoughtful, sustainable, and deeply human.
Jon leads UpSide Collective with a deep sense of purpose and responsibility. He believes adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve more than limited options. They deserve to be known, valued, included, and supported in ways that help them grow, contribute, and thrive. His vision for UpSide is to create a community where adults with I/DD are met with excellence, care, and real opportunity, and where families can feel hope for what is possible.
Jon Steffey
Executive DirectorGayle Bell is the Director of Operations at UpSide Collective, where she helps bring the organization’s vision to life by building thoughtful programs, strong systems, and a positive, consistent experience for participants, families, and staff.
Gayle brings more than 15 years of experience in education and nonprofit leadership, with a focus on creating inclusive environments where individuals feel supported and valued. Her background includes leading programming, special education services, and compliance across school and nonprofit settings.
At UpSide, Gayle is especially passionate about creating spaces where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities feel a true sense of belonging and purpose. She believes that strong relationships and clear systems go hand in hand, and that when both are in place, people can grow, connect, and thrive.
Gayle Bell
Director of OperationsAs UpSide Collective continues to grow, we look forward to introducing more of the staff and leadership who help carry this work forward each day.
Check back soon for more opportunities!
Additional Team Members
Current Openings
Meet the Board
UpSide Collective is led by a committed Board of Directors who share a deep belief in the dignity, value, and potential of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Our board provides leadership, oversight, and support as we continue to strengthen the organization and expand meaningful opportunities for the individuals and families we serve.
We are grateful for the experience, wisdom, and generosity of the board members who help guide the mission of UpSide Collective.