Today we’d like to introduce you to Paula Baker.
Paula, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I had been teaching adults with intellectual/developmental challenges in a special program at Tarrant County College NE Campus for several years when I was asked by SNAP in 2004 to develop a program to help members who wanted to live on their own, the Project Neighbor Program. Over the years, I have helped NTXSNAP develop several more programs such as: Expanded Living Program- preparing members for independent living, JOBS Club- promoting good employment skills and attitudes, Workforce Internships Program- matching SNAP members with employers, Girls Night Out- developing friendships and learning about issues of interest to women, Men’s Club- developing camaraderie, learning to develop positive characteristics like sportsmanship, integrity, compassion, service, etc., and learning from community leaders, Ambassadors Club- building confidence and teaching members to engage with the public and represent NTX SNAP, Book Club-where members learn to discuss books in positive ways and develop friendships with others through the love of reading.
I love working with our members and helping them learn and grow in confidence.
SNAP also has many social activities which are led by parent and community volunteers: Quarterly birthday parties, Spring Dance, Halloween Party, Christmas Dance, Supper Club, Movie Madness, Bowling and many more. At NTX SNAP, we work to create choices and support for people with special needs.
Has it been a smooth road?
We are not funded by the government, so getting the word out about what we are doing in order to raise support for NTXSNAP has been a challenge.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with North Texas Special Needs Assistance Partners (SNAP) – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
North Texas SNAP is a nonprofit organization started in 1999 by a group of parents whose children with intellectual/developmental disabilities were graduating from high school. They hoped to maintain their children’s friendships and develop new ones through forming SNAP and creating social activities. The parents quickly discovered that they shared many of the same issues and concerns: seeking continuing education, employment, transportation and independent living, so they began to find creative ways to address the needs of adults with special challenges. We serve our members who have intellectual/developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome, Autism, William Syndrome, Brain Injury. We strive to help our members become as independent possible and live happy and fulfilled lives. Our creative approach and attention to individual needs and interests is an important part of our organization. Our programs and our many social activities provide opportunities to learn, grow and connect.
North Texas SNAP is a safe place to belong, feel accepted and make good friends.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
We love the people and the diversity of the Dallas/Fort Worth area and the variety of businesses here.
We wish that there was more awareness of people with special needs and their abilities, hopes, dreams and challenges.
Pricing:
- Membership for a year is only $45.00
- Expanded Living and Project Neighbor Programs are fee-based and partially subsidized by SNAP.
Contact Info:
- Address: Physical address:
901 Clinic Drive
Euless, TX 76039Mailing address:
P.O. Box 3294
Grapevine, TX 76099 - Website: www.ntxsnap.org
- Phone: 817-545-9456
- Email: executive.director@ntxsnap.org
- Facebook: North Texas SNAP
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