Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhonda Parker.
Rhonda, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Parker Autism Center was founded in 2015 in order to provide services and resources for individuals and family members diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD), Aspergers and multi-disabilities. I started teaching in 1999. Prior to teaching my experience including counseling in a dual-diagnosis facility, employment consultant for individuals with disabilities and working in the corporate workforce. Having taught elementary, middle and high school students in general and special education settings. I started by offering parent support, respite services and transition into offering a Summer Camp in 2017. The camp is called “Can We Talk” an educational and community-based program that I developed to support all individuals in Socialization and developing their skills in order to be prepared in their daily lives. The camp will offer elementary, middle and high school services during the month of July on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The goal is to provide year-round services. We recently launched Baking to ImPACt a full-service bakery and food service business in order to support employment and training opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Parker Autism Center goal is to offer comprehensive programs that provide community-based training, resources, day program and housing assistance.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Yes, PAC has faced challenges, such as, limited funding, limited volunteers, and being a smaller organization the awareness of the organization. In addition, I faced some medical concerns which required me to take a pause in order to receive treatment.
Please tell us about Parker Autism Center.
Parker Autism Center is comprehensive nonprofit offering service and support for individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Aspergers, and multi-disabilities. We specialize in preparing individuals for different life stages from elementary, middle, high school, and through adulthood. I am proud of the fact that I maintain strong relationships with clients and their family members. It is important for me to treat everyone with Respect. What sets Parker Autism Center apart is developing longstanding relationships, training, services, and support in their community. The goal allows them to receive support in their local area. We Advocate for all! Everyone Deserves an Opportunity!
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
One of my favorite memories was going to the Nursing Home at the age of 7 with my mom and visiting the clients. I didn’t know at the time I would go to talk to a gentleman name Bo each time. I later was told he had Down Syndrome. I thank my mom for showing me how to treat all individuals as equal. I was always excited to spend time with the clients.
Pricing:
- Summer Camp 25.00 Elementary
- Summer Camp 30.00 all others
- Summer Camp 30.00 all others
Contact Info:
- Website: www.parkerautismcenter.org
- Phone: 972-684-1746/682-414-1158
- Email: parkerautismcenter@gmail.com
- Instagram: Parker Autism Center
- Facebook: Parker Autism Center
- Twitter: Parker Autism Center
Image Credit:
Rhonda Parker
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