Greetings Community Leaders and Advocates,
Welcome to the 33rd annual My City, My Place Brighter Future Awards. This year’s theme, “My City, My Place: It’s All About Community”, embodies the work of those who make extraordinary contributions to their communities by assisting people with Intellectual disAbilities and/or Autism to have control over their own lives. I want to thank all of the nominees for their dedication and service to making Philadelphia a place where all people are able to realize their goals and dreams. They are unsung heroes in our community.
Today, we celebrate the recipients of the My City, My Place Brighter Future Awards for their support of individuals to lead a full life in the community. Each of our awardees exemplifies the Everyday Lives: Values in Action principles, and support individuals with an Intellectual disAbility and Autism to have an inclusive Everyday life. They are our neighbors, people with disabilities, teachers, friends, employers, business owners, faith leaders, and others. Congratulations to each of you! Thank you for going above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of our entire community and for supporting those who have an intellectual disability.
A special acknowledgement and appreciation to the Public Awareness Committee, for not only coordinating this event/ program but also, for continuing to grow this program while amplifying the IDS mission - to create, promote and enhance the support and services available to individuals with an intellectual disability.
PAC is the longest standing committee in the history of DBHIDS - active 34+ years, which promotes the value and contributions of all people along with the strength and power of community.
On behalf of the Managing Director’s Office + Health and Human Services cabinet, I extend my enthusiastic congratulations to all the 2025 Brighter Future winners!
In Service,
Crystal Yates-Gale Deputy Managing Director Health and Human Services
PROGRAM
9-11:45 a.m. Exhibits/Resource Fair: Pre-Function Area
9-10 a.m.
Jen Fischer, Public Awareness Committee, Mistress of Ceremony
Welcome: Charlotte Wroton, M.Ed.
Self-Advocate Panel: It’s All about Community!
Enjoy a lively discussion on activities in our community, how they are accessed and enjoyed.
Moderator: Tiffany Davison, EMBA-HCM, Health Program Manager, A-SMT/ SSCT, DBHIDS, David Armbrister, SPIN Choir, Amira Heep, CIS, Bethann Morales, PATH, Samantha Sekula, Supportive Behavioral Resources
“Spreading Some Joy through Music and Dance”
Top Hat Dance Studio Entertainment
Start your day off on the right foot with the dancers and musicians from Top Hat Dance Studio as they perform the pieces they’ve been working on for their showcase.
Caroline McAllister, Alyssa Gerold, Gail Batoff, Pam Galone, Julianna Hahn, Nick Leo, Jhojanni Martinez, Dominic Maffei, Gina Coccia, Riva Mindel
10-10:15 a.m. Break and Exhibitors
10:15-11 a.m. Workshops
Liberty Room
“Why Block Captains Are Important”
Diana Oliveras & Tillie Green
Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee (PMBC)
Learn how to become a block captain, what block captains can expect from PMBC, and what the program has to offer. You’ll learn what is expected from block captains and the importance of building a team.
Rittenhouse Room
“Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Inclusion Programming”
Erica Young
A presentation on the inclusive programs and services offered to the citizens of Philadelphia.
11:15-12 noon Workshops
Liberty Room
“Exploring the Arts: A Glimpse into Top Hat Dance Studio”
Caroline McAllister, Alyssa Gerold
Join us and discover the various artistic outlets available at Top Hat Dance Studio. You will learn about our offerings in dance, music and art…including something we like to call a “Shindig!” What is Shindig? Come and find out. You’ll experience a mini version of our weekly dance class, which is bound to be a fun time. Not a dancer, no worries! No experience is necessary. Just be open to a good time!
Rittenhouse Room
“SEPTA Accessibility: Riding with a Disability”
Amy Raphael, OTR/L, Taryn Winbush, COTA/L, Catherine Fleming, OTR/L
This presentation will review SEPTA’s programs for riders with disabilities, including the Reduced Fare program, which allows riders with a disability under 65 years old to ride at half fare on buses, trains, and trolleys with state funding. The Seniors Ride Free Program enables riders 65 and older to travel at no cost, with fares covered by the PA Lottery. As well as SEPTA Access (formerly CCT) provides a paratransit service for riders whose disabilities prevent them from using fixed route transit services. We will also provide updates on ongoing projects to enhance vehicle and station accessibility, tripplanning tools, and provide travel training resources to support independent mobility.
Noon-3 p.m. Award Luncheon
Entertainment: SPIN CHOIR
Introduction: Loraine Ballard Morrill, Mistress of Ceremonies, Director of News and Community Affairs, iHeartMedia
Special Guests:
The Honorable Cherelle L. Parker Mayor, City of Philadelphia
Crystal Yates-Gale, Deputy Managing Director Health and Human Services, City of Philadelphia
Dr. Marquita C. Williams, Interim Commissioner Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services
Kristin Ahrens, Deputy Secretary
PA Department of Human Services, Office of Developmental Programs
Keynote: Pedro Rosario, Deputy Commissioner
City of Philadelphia Police Department
Award Winners
Comedian: Charles Walden
Award Winners
Honorable Mention Award Winners
Announcements
Networking, Music, and Celebration
Speaker & Presenter Bios
Charlotte Wroton, M.Ed
Chief Program Officer
Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services, City of Philadelphia
Charlotte Wroton is the Chief Program Officer for the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS), where she leads the Intellectual disAbility Services Division. She works closely with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and local organizations to ensure individuals with autism and developmental disabilities have access to quality services and opportunities. Charlotte also oversees the Infant Toddler Early Intervention Program, and Behavioral Health Developmental Disabilities System of Care.
A strong advocate for the employment of individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism, she co-chairs the division’s Employment Steering Committee and promotes a holistic approach to support.
Joining DBHIDS in 2013 as a program analyst, Charlotte has held several leadership roles, including program analyst supervisor, assistant director, associate director, and interim chief program officer. She brings over 25 years of experience in behavioral health and intellectual disability services.
A mom, a teacher, and a strong, experienced leader, Cherelle L. Parker is the first Black woman Mayor of Philadelphia, seeking to create a Safer, Cleaner, Greener city with access to economic opportunity for all. Mayor Parker spends her time outside the office at home in Northwest Philadelphia with her son, Langston, and their dog, Max.
Dr. Marquita C. Williams, Interim Commissioner, Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services
In April 2024, Dr. Marquita C. Williams was appointed by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker as interim commissioner of the City’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS).
Prior to accepting this interim appointment, Dr. Williams served as the senior executive advisor to former DBHIDS Commissioner Dr. Jill Bowen. In this capacity, she was responsible for creating and coordinating opportunities for direct dialogue between organizations, government and community stakeholders, provider groups, providers, academic institutions, and the community at large in an effort to ensure all voices are reflected in the policies, practices, and behavioral health wellness programming across the system. Her efforts created opportunities to bring new voices to the table, ensuring that everyone could participate and inform the work of DBHIDS.
Dr. Williams is a long-time leader in the field of behavioral health. Formerly, She was the deputy commissioner of DBHIDS and was also senior advisor at Community Behavioral Health (CBH). She provided leadership for the DBHIDS service system including identifying system goals, priorities, creating innovative solutions to address departmental priorities, and provided direct oversight for the programmatic visioning, planning, and operationalizing of the public health vision for Philadelphia’s Comprehensive Child and Adult Behavioral Health System, which included daily operational and programming oversight and monitoring for the department’s six priority units.
Crystal Yates-Gale, Deputy Managing Director of Health and Human Services, City of Philadelphia
Crystal Yates-Gale has over 25 years of experience in the City of Philadelphia. She is a demonstrated leader. Crystal serves as the Deputy Managing Director of Health and Human Services in the Managing Director’s Office. In her capacity she works closely with the leadership of the Philadelphia Public Health Department, Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services, Office of Homeless Services, Office of Domestic Violence Strategies, and the Mayor’s Commission on Aging. The mission of the Health and Human Services cluster is to ensure the health and wellbeing, safety and appropriate Supports for all Philadelphians particularly the most vulnerable children and adults. She previously served as the Deputy Commissioner of Administration and Finance for the Philadelphia Fire Department. She also has extensive EMS leadership experience. During her time at the Philadelphia Fire Department, she served as Assistant Deputy Commissioner of EMS. In 2014, she launched the EMS Community Risk Reduction and Mobile Integrated Health Unit which pursued innovative strategies to use patient-centered, mobile resources to reduce unplanned hospital visits. Her health care background is diverse and includes nursing,
prehospital care, health insurance experience, and strengths-based family coaching. Crystal is passionate about health equity. She served on the steering committee for OVA Birth Justice, a structured community action team focused on reducing maternal mortality. She was a member of the Advisory Committee for Cities Changing Diabetes in Philadelphia. She participated in the Philadelphia Resilience Project and OD Stat overdose mortality review committee. She served as a consultant for Primary Maternity Care in Milford, CT. Crystal is a Pozen-Commonwealth Fund Fellow in Health Equity Leadership. The Commonwealth Fund’s mission is to promote a highperforming, equitable health care system that achieves better access, improved quality, and greater efficiency, particularly for society’s most vulnerable, including people of color, people with low income, and those who are uninsured. Crystal received her MBA from Yale University’s School of Management and her BS in Professional Studies from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. She is a Philadelphia Leadership alumna. She also received a certificate from Thomas Jefferson University’s Municipal Innovation Academy.
Kristin Ahrens, Deputy Secretary, PA Department of Human Services, Office of Developmental Programs
Ms. Ahrens has 35 years of experience working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Her work spans from her current role administering statewide Medicaid programs for people with IDD to advocacy and community education; serving as a direct support professional; providing supported living, family support, and self-directed services; and developing and managing several self-directed models. Ms. Ahrens is a proud Philadelphian and Temple Owl.
Pedro Rosario, Deputy Commissioner, City of Philadelphia Police Department
Pedro R Rosario was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Pedro & Myrna Rosario, his parents. Growing up in the Fairmount/ Spring Garden neighborhood, a product of the Philadelphia Public School system, he graduated in 1990 from George Washington Carver High School of Engineering & Science. Pedro began his career in the police department in December of 1991, becoming a police dispatcher. In the mid-nineties, he enrolled in the Philadelphia Police Academy, which was the next step in his 30 -plus year career with the Philadelphia Police Department. Promoted in 2005 to Police Sergeant then again in 2012 to the rank of Lieutenant. In 2019, he made the rank of Captain and was assigned to be Commanding Officer of the 24th District. In February 2023 he was assigned to be the Commanding Officer of East Detective Division. In January 2024, he was promoted to Deputy Police Commissioner (1st Latino in the department’s history to be elevated to this rank) leading the effort to restore the Kensington Community.
Pedro is married to his wife Tanisha (also a Philadelphia Police Officer) and together they have two daughters Sydney 19 and Kara 15.
Amira Heep, CIS
Amira is a graduate of Roxborough High School, where she’s in the Sports Hall of Fame. She is an accomplished musician and singer. She earned her degree from Temple University in 2023, majoring in leadership and Career Studies. She now works multiple roles at Philadelphia sports venues, serving as a greeter for the Sixers and Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field, at Outphitters sportswear store at the Wells Fargo Center, and an usher at the Hyundai VIP Club.
Bethann Morales, PATH
Bethann’s life is a blessing. Her family is everything. Bethann is a wife, daughter, aunt, godmother, sister, best friend, employee at Marshalls, daughter-in-law and mother to Hershey, the rabbit.
Samantha Sekula, Supportive Behavioral Resources
Samantha is a self-advocate both at work and in the community. She has been working since 2020, holding positions at Sesame Place and mostly Shake Shack. She enjoys working and contributing to her community. In her free time, she enjoys talking with her friends, watching TV, and spending time with her family and pets.
Brighter Futures Awards
Winner
Jason Budd, Cultural Award
Nominator
Beth O’Connell Father Judge High School Supportive Behavioral Resources
Jen Holman, Financial Award
Sarina Mam Vetri Community Partnership SpArc Philadelphia
Michelle Johnson, Environmental Award
Grady Chambers Lovette Richardson CIS Tyra Byrd School District of Philadelphia
Alexandra Krouse, Communication Award
Estelle Acquah Dynamicare (Early Intervention) Aya Advisors, LLC
Dominic Muniz, Employment Award
Andrea Consigny Hair Wizards SPIN
Jeanine Pittman, Spiritual/Inspirational Award
Peg Capasso Christ Mission of the Apostolic Faith Church SPIN
Sherell Robinson, Educational Award
Elnora Veal MaxiMOM Impact MaxiMOM Impact
Angela Smith, Community Leadership Award
Laura Tompkins Committee Woman 61st Ward, 35th PDAC, Olney DBHIDS Community Action Group
Niessa Snodgrass, Physical Award
Calvin Cooper YMCA Personal Trainer SPIN
Cheryl Stehle, Social Award
Jamiel Owens Parent Advocate Center for Autism, CHOP
CULTURAL AND ARTS AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Jason Budd Father Judge High School
Jason Budd is instrumental in assisting others make choices in their lives. He plays a relevant part in Supportive Behavioral Resources collaboration with Father Judge High School. His dedication to the disability community is the reason for this important, intergenerational, and inclusive relationship. It enables all parties to experience the differences between others and realize everyone’s ability to be successful.
Jason is the Major Gift Officer at Father Judge High School, Board President at Pegasus Riding Academy and has a long-standing career with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Jason is the parent of a child with autism and understands the importance of inclusion and acceptance. When SBR was looking for a new venue to hold its annual talent show, Jason suggested holding the event in Father Judge’s auditorium. He coordinated the use of the auditorium space and involved student volunteers to assist with the event. It was wonderful to see this opportunity develop into a meaningful relationship for the individuals we serve and the students of Father Judge. They worked with our diverse team showing patience and understanding. This event attracts over 200 community attendees. It allows our individuals to showcase their talents while bringing awareness to their many abilities. Our individuals enjoy being in the limelight and begin planning their acts months ahead of the show.
Jason also serves on the Board of Directors at Pegasus Riding Academy and ensures the community has access to and an understanding of the importance of therapeutic horseback riding. His involvement with strategic planning, along with other board members at Pegasus allows for participants (many with IDD/autism) to meet or exceed therapeutic and personal goals. Jason was also a member of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation planning committee to design an all-inclusive destination playground in the City of Philadelphia. Jason's leadership in the Philadelphia area and commitment to service make him worthy of recognition and an outstanding candidate to receive a Brighter Futures Award.
Jen Holman
Vetri Community Partnership
Through a partnership with Vetri Community Partnership and SpArc Services, Jen Holman’s work empowers participants of SpArc Services all of whom are adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities with hands-on culinary experiences that encourage personal choice, decision-making, and independence within a supportive environment.
Many participants do not have the opportunity to make choices in their daily lives, such as what they will wear, who they are around, or what they eat. These workshops enable participants to learn accessible and inclusive culinary techniques using nutritious recipes while encouraging them to utilize the lessons learned in their daily lives. Recipes are preselected, but participants are given the opportunity to make choices based on their preferences and needs. This encourages participants to express their personal tastes and explore new flavors while maintaining a structured and inclusive cooking experience. Participants collaborate throughout each class to make the dishes as Jen encourages participants to choose a task based on their comfort levels and skills. Since the beginning of the partnership, Jen learned how to make Vetri’s kitchen more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities, meeting with individuals from Temple Institute on Disabilities to learn about adaptive technology.
Jen has worked with Vetri Community Partnership for more than four years and previously was part of a team that opened a small grocery store that provided fresh, affordable, and healthy prepared foods to their neighborhood. Through her work at Vetri Community Partnership, Jen is committed to physical and mental wellness by creating a space that fosters a sense of belonging, community, independence, and life skill development. Jen contributes to the broader community by promoting accessibility and inclusion in culinary spaces, providing participants with recipes that are accessible, adaptive, and affordable. Her efforts demonstrate the importance of supplying adaptive programming that empowers all individuals, with or without disabilities, to develop life skills, make independent choices, and engage in enriching activities alongside their peers.
COMMUNICATIONS AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Alexandra Krouse Dynamicare (Early Intervention)
Alexandra Krouse’s commitment to young children with disabilities goes far beyond the therapy room. Alexandra, affectionally known as “Allie,” invests her time, energy, and heart into ensuring each child reaches their highest potential. My child has blossomed under her care, thanks to her personalized therapy sessions and innovative, evidence-based techniques. Allie’s approach is not just about meeting clinical goals, it’s about understanding and nurturing the whole child. Allie has also been an incredible support for our family, particularly as we navigate the challenges of raising a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She doesn’t just work with our child, she also partners with us by offering guidance, practical strategies, and emotional support. Her ability to communicate complex information in a clear, compassionate way has empowered us as parents, making us feel confident and supported on this journey.
Her ability to communicate effectively, provide practical strategies for home use, and offer a listening ear has made a profound difference in the lives of many families. Allie's dedication extends beyond her direct work with children and families; she is a collaborative team player, often mentoring new professionals and sharing knowledge with colleagues to foster a culture of continuous improvement within her organization. Her passion for advocacy and her proactive approach to addressing the diverse needs of children with disabilities highlight her leadership and commitment to the field.
Allie is a speech language pathologist and works in her community to serve children with high support needs in underserved areas. She leverages her experiences to deliver compassionate and culturally competent care. She is passionate about social justice and ensures that children are given robust, multimodal communication support so they can truly have agency and choice in their lives. She is a neurodiversity affirming provider and understands that communication is the goal. What truly sets Allie apart is her relentless pursuit of professional growth. She dedicates her own time and money to attend workshops, specialized training, and conferences. This commitment to continuous learning brings current, effective strategies into her workplace. She is truly an inspiration to all.
Dominic Muniz Hair Wizards
An individual’s journey to finding the right job is one of perseverance and determination. For four years, one individual sought a role that would tap into his talents and provide an environment where he could thrive and feel comfortable. His journey led him to Hair Wizards Barbershop, a place that met these needs and exceeded them. As a result of detailed community mapping, a SPIN employment specialist networked with the owners of Hair Wizards Barbershop. She knew this would be the perfect environment for this individual who longs to build new relationships with community members his own age. Our employment specialist and the owners, Dominic Muniz, collaborated to carve a position that involves sweeping the shop, wiping counters, and maintaining restrooms, but his contributions extend far beyond his duties. His presence and joy bring a special warmth to the shop, making him an indispensable member of the team.
Hair Wizards, a long-established institution in Philadelphia, is known for its outstanding service, inclusivity, and commitment to making everyone feel welcome. Dominic's partnership with Sensory Safe Solutions is a testament to his dedication to providing a safe and comfortable experience for everyone. His efforts impacted the community and have extended across the country as he travels to teach others about sensory-friendly haircuts and techniques for individuals with autism.
Dominic’s nurturing support is a cornerstone of the positive environment at Hair Wizards. He doesn’t just manage, he leads by example. He remains focused on creating a supportive, fun, and dynamic workplace where employees feel valued and respected. This individual’s experience at Hair Wizards has been transformative due to Dominic’s unwavering dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture. Dominic’s leadership extends beyond the barbershop as he actively gives back to the community, raising awareness for causes like autism and breast cancer and serving as a mentor to others in his field.
Jeanine Pittman
Christ Mission of the Apostolic Faith Church
Jeanine Pittman has been supporting her nephew to continue practicing his faith at Christ Mission of The Apostolic Faith Church every Sunday. He attended the same church since he was a little boy with another aunt, his grandmother, his mother, and now with his Aunt Jeanine. His faith has always been important to him, so having Jeanine’s support provides him with a sense of joy and the opportunity to connect to others who share the same beliefs and belong to something bigger. So many members of the church have known him for most of his life and he is part of their church family. He truly belongs to this community and with Jeanine’s support he has become a big part of it.
Attending services each week is just the beginning of his involvement with his church. With Jeanine’s support, he also helps with special events. He helps clean the kitchen in addition to other chores for special events. Everyone involved ensures he is kept busy and safe. It is not only Jeanine who truly loves him, but also his church family.
Music is a huge part of his life. By sharing Sunday morning services with her nephew, Jeanine provides him with the opportunity to sing. He enjoys this special activity regularly as part of the SPIN choir. The songs during services are often sung on the way home. Gospel music transforms him into his own world of joy.
Jeanine has been a constant for her nephew. She wants him to be happy in all aspects of his life. Maintaining his connection to his faith community has truly added to the quality of his life. For her nephew, attending church is not just a weekly activity, it is part of who he is as a person. It makes him feel loved and respected and valued in so many ways. We are so thankful he has his Aunt Jeanine, who will ensure his future continues to be bright.
Jeanine ensures he continues to play a role in his spiritual community that has been part of his life since he was a child. The community at Christ Mission of the Apostolic Faith Church continues to welcome him every week and every special event. Everyone looks out for him as part of the family. Jeanine continues to be the gatekeeper for her nephew and his spiritual journey.
EDUCATIONAL AWARD OF
Sherell Robinson MaxiMOM Impact
Sherell Robinson offers unique resources for homes of autism families. She has led the charge with creating a petition against non-emergent restraint of autistic children. She believes families should have agency in medical environments. Sherell has also created educational and empowering community events to educate families and community members of autistic individuals, as well as those awaiting diagnosis. She has also developed a resource archive and is working on a caregiver library for autism families.
Sherell is collaborating with multiple nonprofit organizations to maximize community service led by her nonprofit and others. She spearheaded the "Bubble Huddle for Autism Awareness" to bring together autism families, community members, educators and others. In her Philly AuSome Sensory Drive, Sherell brought together neurotypical community members and neurodiverse individuals. Neurotypical community members showed their support of the sensory needs of neurodiverse people in marginalized communities by donating sensory items for them.
Sherell’s commitment to community development did not simply begin when she became a special needs parent. She is a mother to a neurotypical teenager and a neurodiverse preschooler on the autistic spectrum who has medical complexities. She is also a Family Navigator with Vision for Equality.
Sherell chose work that others prefer not to do. She accomplishes this meaningful work even if unpaid and tired. She has served as behavioral health support, developed initiatives for neurodiverse children with incarcerated parents, advocated at schools for trauma reduction practices, and more. Most importantly, she is one of the best kept secrets of Philadelphia because no one truly knows the extent of her community development given her humility. She deserves recognition so her efforts can be maximized by new alliances; this can only prove advantageous for the community at large.
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Angela Smith Committeewoman 61st Ward, 35th PDAC, Olney Community Action Group
Angela Smith has always displayed a genuine passion for supporting her community. Her focus is on children and their education. Angela's philosophy is that learned knowledge gives everyone the ability to understand and shape their future and destiny. At Sturgis Recreation Center, she promotes full inclusion of children with special needs ensuring that parents are given knowledge and opportunity to explore extracurricular activities for their children. Angela has served the community for more than 20 years. She generously volunteers as the secretary for the 61st Ward and Sturgis Recreation Center, serves as a member of the Fisher Park Committee, Aspira Charter School and engages in various other community initiatives. She tirelessly contributes to the well-being of our children and our future through her active involvement in events such as the Cancer Walk, Community Baby Shower, Easter Egg Hunt, and Walking Club. Each year Angela funds a back-to-school fair giving away well over 300 backpacks filled with school supplies. Angela is the founder of Knowledge is Learned and is the author of 11 books.
She does community outreach to the homeless in the 19134 ZIP code along with being a communications liaison traveling to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the homeless and qualityof-life control in the United States and other countries. Angela brings togetherness, compassion, and respect to the people that she can help within our communities. Every time there is a need to be filled, Angela is there. She advocates for the voiceless and constantly brings what’s needed. When tragedy hits close to home, she makes sure the families of those hurt have something to eat or an ear to listen to so they know someone cares. She partners with other community groups to distribute Thanksgiving turkeys, coats, hats, gloves, toys, and gifts around the holidays. Angela is a great daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and most importantly a great friend and ally for her community
SOCIAL AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
Cheryl
Stehle Parent Advocate
Cheryl Stehle made it her mission to advocate to the governor’s office and tries to connect with the community to ensure proper representation for every neurodiverse individual and family in Pennsylvania and beyond. Cheryl is a consultant with the governor’s office and five other local and state nonprofit organizations to ensure that continuous growth and inclusion is applicable to everyone.
Cheryl is an autism mother, and advocates for all. She has become more than my partner and colleague; she and her family have become my friends. Two years ago, she joined a roundtable discussion with Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro regarding transition services for those who identify as autistic or who have IDD. Since that session, she has identified that more needs to be done - not just for her adult son, but for everyone.
She acted quickly and reached out to the governor’s office to take on the responsibility of forming a group of advocates to speak to Dr. Valerie Arkoosh with the Pa. Department of Human Services and Kristin Ahrens, Pa. Deputy Secretary Office of Developmental Programs about the devastating impact and deficits facing families with autism. She consults with the Pa. State Police where her training curriculum for law enforcement and first responders has been approved by Continuing Law Enforcement Education. She has volunteered all these services with incredible commitment as a parent advocate. When asked why, she always states: "This is bigger than me or you. Bigger than my son or your loved ones. This is something for our future.”
Nija Birchett (School District of Philadelphia) provides job-related instruction and support to students with intellectual disabilities and autism. She helps them develop the skills needed for employment and independent living.
Doug Conaway (Lagos Fine Jewelry) is a manager who uses creativity and encouragement to provide a welcoming workplace defined by care, community, and opportunity for Lagos employees with intellectual disabilities and/or autism
Doreatha Davis (West Philadelphia Parent Support Group) is a great person who leads by example. She supports families and individuals in making choices, advocating, and accessing resources.
Taylor Fennell (Top Hat Dance Studio) is an art teacher who works with all levels of ability. Her classes foster community and are filled with laughter and joy.
George Fiocca and Andy Ball (Philadelphia Electrical and Technology Charter High School) engage high school students of all abilities in after school and summer enrichment programs inside and outside the school setting.
Maryann Grayo (The R.E.I.D. Foundation) This foundation profoundly impacts our community through its steadfast dedication to giving back by distributing food to those in need.
Caroline McAllister and Daniel McGee (Top Hat Dance Studio) make everyone feel like longtime friends. They make dance feel like a party. This studio offers art and music classes for people with all abilities and gives everyone a chance to try new experiences and meet new people.
LaQuenta Montanez (School District of Philadelphia) bridges education and real-life opportunities ensuring students have skills, resources, and support to succeed beyond high school. She advocates for change in the transition planning process and engages with decision makers to raise awareness and influence policy.
Our mission is to create, promote, and enhance the supports and services available to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Individuals will have access to quality services and supports that foster:
• Choices in their everyday lives
• Meaningful personal relationships with friends, family, neighbors
• Presence and participation in their communities
• Dignity and respect as valued citizens of Philadelphia
IDS PUBLIC AWARENESS PLANNING COMMITTEE
George Callaway, Co Chair
Chaz Elliott, Co-Chair
Lisa Apointe-Savoie
Shawn Evans
Rosalind Ellis
Jen Fischer
Christopher Florence
Marnisha Henry
Andrea Imperatore
Julio Nieves
Monique Thomas-Fillis
Lauren Williams
Wendy William, IDS Advisor
To join the Public Awareness Committee, email IDS.publicawareness@phila.gov
