Meet Danny McCarns, the Executive Director at Peppermint Ridge. With a strategic mindset and compassionate approach, she is the visionary leader of our organization, steering our mission to provide exceptional care and services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
EXECUTIVE TEAM
ADMINS
Administrative Services Director
Jim Vigneau
Meet Jim Vigneau, the Administrative Services Director at Peppermint Ridge. Serving as Danny's right hand and second in command, Jim plays an essential role in the leadership team. He oversees all aspects of administration, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the organization.
Admissions & Clinical Operations
Cyndi Lapina
Meet Cyndi Lapina, the Admissions and Clinical Operations Manager at Peppermint Ridge. Cyndi plays a vital role in ensuring the seamless transition of new residents into our community and maintaining the highest standards of clinical care for all residents.
Operations Project Manager
Jessica Paz
Meet Jessica, our Operations Project Manager at Peppermint Ridge, bringing over 20 years of dedicated service to The Ridge. She oversees critical operational projects and is at the forefront of guiding future implementations of our care levels and program offerings.
Community Outreach Director
Nicholas Sam
Meet Nick, the Community Outreach Director at Peppermint Ridge. He plays a crucial role in promoting the organization's mission and engaging with the community. Nick has a dynamic mix of responsibilities, including fundraising, volunteer coordination, marketing, multimedia management and fostering long-lasting relationships.
Activities Director
Maria Sierra
Meet Maria, the Activities Director. Maria is at the heart of our day program, orchestrating daily activities that foster engagement and enjoyment for our residents. With a keen eye for detail, she prepares materials and creates a fun, stimulating environment where our residents can thrive.
HR Manager
Heather Edwards
Meet Heather Edwards, the HR Manager at Peppermint Ridge. Heather is the cornerstone of our human resources department, ensuring smooth operations and fostering a positive work environment. She manages recruitment, employee relations, payroll and benefits administration.
MEET OUR FOUNDERS
Bob and Mary Jeffery

Peppermint Ridge was founded by Bob and Mary Jeffery in 1945. The Jefferys were driven by their personal experience as parents of a son with multiple disabilities. Finding the available services insufficient, they decided to create a program that met their high standards of care. They started their initiative with six boys in their home in Norco, California. The Jefferys’ reputation for helping boys reach their full potential in a loving environment quickly spread, leading to the expansion of their program.
Their dedication and vision laid the foundation for Peppermint Ridge, as a non-profit organization, which has since grown to provide comprehensive care and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The legacy of Bob and Mary Jeffery continues to inspire the mission and values of Peppermint Ridge today.







