What happens when someone who simply wants to live independently—work a job, care for their health, or find a safe place to call home—can’t access the support they need? For many individuals with disabilities, this is a daily reality. Without access to essential services like personal care, housing assistance, or benefits guidance, their path to independence becomes a constant struggle.
That’s why leaders working in healthcare and disability advocacy play such a critical role. They are reshaping systems to ensure care is more accessible, rights are protected, and communities are inclusive. Through innovative programs, policy reforms, and personalized support, they’re building a future where independence isn’t a privilege—it’s a standard.
One such leader is Jesse Bethke Gomez, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL). With more than two decades of executive leadership, Jesse brings a visionary focus on social equity, human dignity, and workforce development. At MCIL, he recognized the urgent challenges in the direct care sector—particularly low wages, limited recognition, and a lack of career pathways. In response, Jesse led the organization to secure a $2.1 million grant from The Bush Foundation to launch an 80-hour, college-credit credentialing program for Certified Direct Care Professionals. This initiative helps elevate caregiving standards and empowers both workers and the people they support.
Jesse’s work extends far beyond program design—he actively engages with academic institutions, advises policymakers at state and national levels, and brings MCIL’s mission to global forums. Under his leadership, MCIL has earned recognition from the White House, been featured in national media, and continues to influence the evolution of disability advocacy. These achievements are a reflection of his enduring commitment to systems that uphold equity and inclusion for all.
A Leadership Philosophy Rooted in Humanity
Jesse Bethke Gomez’s leadership philosophy stems from a deeply held belief in the inherent dignity and interconnectedness of all people.
He frames his work through a principle that transcends policy:
“In my work I truly see the organizing principle for society as both the inalienable rights of the individual in pursuit of life, freedom and the pursuit of happiness and also human dignity defined as it is self-evident that human dignity is equally endowed in all humanity, that means every person throughout the world, and throughout all time.
So why does this most ennobled value matter—of advancing the ability of people to care for one another? The answer is within the nature of humanity. As my mother Irene Gomez-Bethke, who was the Commissioner of Human Rights for the State of Minnesota, would often say: We are one race—the Human Race.”
This belief has shaped Jesse’s entire career and informs every decision he makes as a leader—from policy advocacy to service delivery to public engagement.
Over Two Decades of Executive Experience
Jesse Bethke Gomez brings more than 25 years of leadership experience, having served in executive roles at three major organizations before taking the helm at MCIL. His leadership journey began in early childhood, sitting alongside his father in the CEO’s office—an experience that seeded a lifelong mission to lead with purpose and create lasting change.
Guided by a rigorous academic background and a passion for lifelong learning, Jesse Bethke Gomez developed a leadership style that considers the broader cultural and societal dynamics impacting marginalized communities. At MCIL, this outlook proved critical in addressing the direct care workforce crisis, which not only affects caregivers but also the quality of life for people with disabilities.
He has since made workforce transformation a cornerstone of his strategy—improving wages, increasing recognition, and creating sustainable career paths for caregivers.
A Strategic Response to the Direct Care Workforce Crisis
One of the most impactful initiatives led under Jesse’s leadership at MCIL is the launch of the Certified Direct Care Professional credentialing program. Developed as a pilot with college credit, the program helps address long-standing challenges in the direct care field—such as low pay, limited training, and few opportunities for advancement. By integrating the curriculum into academic institutions, the program has expanded access, opened new career paths for caregivers, and improved the quality of care for the people they support.
At the same time, MCIL takes a person-centered approach to ensure individuals with disabilities can thrive. The organization helps people recognize their strengths, focus on their goals, and work through the barriers they may face—whether it’s finding stable housing, securing employment, managing finances, or accessing essential benefits. Through one-on-one guidance and practical action plans, MCIL empowers individuals to move past challenges and build more independent, fulfilling lives.
A Global Voice for Disability Rights
Jesse’s leadership extends beyond state and national boundaries. MCIL is part of a global movement to advance disability rights and independent living through the seven life-sustaining dimensions—a transformative framework that helps individuals and families gain stability and self-determination.
Jesse Bethke Gomez draws from the research of colleague Tor Dahl, who emphasized that when values like freedom, safety, and fairness are widely shared, nations achieve greater productivity and higher quality of life. Jesse Bethke Gomez’s work embodies this principle—showing how local advocacy can spark global conversations on dignity, equity, and justice.
Upholding Civil Rights and Legal Protections
Jesse’s work is firmly rooted in legal frameworks that protect vulnerable populations. He has championed policies aligned with the 13th to 15th Amendments, the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Minnesota’s Human Rights laws.
His previous service on the Minnesota Judicial Selection Commission (2011–2015) provided him with key insights into the legislative, executive, and judicial systems that shape disability rights policy. He brings this knowledge into his advocacy efforts, ensuring that public systems uphold the constitutional rights and inherent dignity of every person.
Raising Awareness Through Media and Public Engagement
MCIL’s work and leadership have gained recognition across various respected platforms for their commitment to equity, independent living, and policy innovation. Through media features, public forums, and impactful initiatives, the organization has highlighted the importance of accessible support for individuals with disabilities.
Some notable moments include:
- Healthcare Eureka: Covered his work in transforming caregiving and strengthening the direct care workforce.
- World Care Magazine: Highlighted MCIL’s leadership in promoting dignity and long-term workforce development.
- White House Invitation (2023): Jesse Bethke Gomez joined the “Communities in Action” forum to discuss inclusion and disability rights.
- Disability Viewpoints (2025): Featured Jesse’s views on life-sustaining dimensions and legislative advocacy.
- Board Expansion (2024): Welcomed seasoned advocates to enhance strategic direction and disability representation.
- In 2022, MCIL Became accredited by CARF International to provide Comprehensive Benefits Planning.
- Minnesota Physician Publishing, Inc.(2022 and 2024): Jesse Bethke Gomez was listed among “100 Most Influential Health Care Leaders in Minnesota,” by Minnesota Physician Publishing, Inc.
Coordinated Support
The MCIL offers a wide range of services to support individuals with disabilities in living independently.
These services are designed to meet people where they are and help them navigate everyday challenges with confidence and support:
- ADA Minnesota & Disability Hub MN: Provides education and guidance to help individuals understand their rights, explore benefits, find housing, and access employment opportunities.
- Case Management: Supports individuals on CADI, Brain Injury, and Elderly waiver programs in Hennepin and Ramsey Counties by helping them coordinate home and community-based services.
- Home Modification & Ramps: Assists with making homes more accessible through modifications like grab bars and railings, and helps secure funding when needed.
- Independent Living & Vocational Rehabilitation (IL/VR): Offers help with employment goals, financial education, and access to services in partnership with Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
- Core Services: Information and referral, IL skills training, Peer counseling, Individual & systems advocacy, facilitate transition to community settings, provide assistance to those at risk of entering institutions, and facilitate transition of youth.
- PCA College Service Corps: Matches college students with individuals who need Personal Care Assistant (PCA) support, giving students paid experience and offering consistent care to those in need.
- Transitional Services & Nursing Home Relocation: Helps individuals move from licensed facilities to independent housing by assisting with planning, moving costs, and coordinating necessary services.
- Operation Call Center: One of two Operation Centers for Statewide Call Center assisting people with disabilities.
Commitment to Inclusion
MCIL works with a clear mission: “Removing Barriers, Promoting Choices.” It is a nonprofit, multi-service organization led by a dedicated Board of Directors and executive leadership team. Every effort at MCIL is rooted in the belief that people with disabilities should have the chance to live with independence, dignity, and full participation in their communities. The organization stays focused on making a real and positive difference in the lives of the people it supports.
Jesse Bethke Gomez’s 5 Impactful Business Mantras
- Lead with Purpose: True leadership starts with empathy, vision, and a drive to create lasting impact.
- Embrace Our Shared Humanity: We are all part of the same life journey — connected by our nature as human beings.
- Center Equity in Everything: Build systems that are inclusive, fair, and rooted in dignity for all.
- Innovate to Solve Real Problems: Focus innovation on transforming lives, not just improving processes.
- Empower People First: Invest in the workforce to build stronger, more resilient communities.
