Meet our team of professionals

Administrative Team

A face to the name always helps! Our team consists of professionals from different walks of life, career paths, and skills. Take a look!

Jocelyne Ininahazwe

Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Paradise Residential Services was founded by Jocelyn, Juste, Enock, and a group of dedicated friends who shared a deep passion for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism. With years of experience working in residential care agencies, they recognized the need for a more person-centered, compassionate, and empowering approach to care.

Together, they created Paradise Residential Services, an agency they could be truly proud of—one that prioritizes independence, dignity, and inclusion for every resident. Their vision was to establish a safe and supportive home environment where individuals could develop life skills, build meaningful relationships, and feel valued and respected.

Today, their commitment to excellence continues to shape the agency, offering comprehensive residential care, personalized support plans, community integration, and 24/7 professional assistance. More than just a care provider, Paradise Residential Services is a pillar of advocacy, belonging, and empowerment, helping individuals live fulfilling, independent lives with the care and respect they deserve.

Deanna Estes

Human Resources Manager

Appolonia Sheppard

Chief Operations Officer

Chris Plourde

Maintenance

Chris Plourde is the Maintenance Technician at Paradise Residential Services, with over 20 years of experience in construction and property maintenance. His skills include carpentry, tile work, electrical repairs, minor plumbing, and reading blueprints.

Chris is dependable, works well with others, and takes pride in keeping our homes safe and well-maintained. He values learning new skills and finding practical solutions to maintenance challenges.

We’re glad to have Chris on the team, helping us provide quality care and comfortable homes for our residents.

Coming Soon

Fredrick Jewell

Director of Maintenance

Juste Arakaza

Founder and Chief Financial Officer

Appolonia Sheppard brings 20 years of experience in residential services within the nonprofit sector to Paradise Residential Services. She holds an Associate’s degree in Psychology from Southern Maine Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern Maine, where she is currently pursuing her MBA.

As a dedicated professional and advocate, Appolonia’s passion for high-quality residential care is deeply personal—she is the mother of a partially non-verbal daughter with autism. Her firsthand experience gives her a unique perspective on the critical importance of exceptional care and support for individuals with disabilities. With her strong leadership, academic expertise, and commitment to advocacy, Appolonia continues to drive meaningful improvements in residential services, ensuring individuals receive the highest standard of care. Book a time to speak with Appolonia below:

Carol Waig

Director of Training

Carol Waig brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience to Paradise Residential Services, having served as a correctional officer and trainer. She is also the founder and director of Father’s Hands, a nonprofit dedicated to homeless outreach.

For the past seven years, Carol has been a training director for Section 29 and Section 21 services, ensuring top-quality education for direct support professionals. She also serves on multiple boards, advocating for various causes. Known for her dedication, compassion, and leadership, Carol continues to make a meaningful impact through training, mentorship, and community service.

Coming Soon

Julie Seehagen

Director of Nursing

Enock Nijimbere

Founder Fleet & Maintenance Manager

Coming Soon

Fleury Irakoze

Program Manager - South Region

Fabrice Batungwanayo

Program Manager - North Region

Miki Delaney

Front Desk & Administration Coordinator

Miki Delaney is the Administrative Assistant at Paradise Residential Services, bringing over 40 years of office support and customer service experience. She spent over 10 years at Modivcare, handling front desk operations, onboarding, and compliance tasks.

Miki is known for her strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and dedication to supporting both staff and visitors efficiently. Her experience and friendly demeanor make her a valuable part of the team.

Mercedes Becvar

Program Coordinator

Enock Nijimbere

Founder Fleet & Maintenance Manager

Enock Nijimbere is the Founder and Fleet & Maintenance Manager at Paradise Residential Services, serving as a vital liaison for the company. Known for his kindness, sense of humor, and deep care for the agency, Enock ensures that transportation and maintenance operations run smoothly.

His commitment to supporting both staff and residents reflects his dedication to the overall success and well-being of Paradise Residential Services.