Peter is someone who enjoys staying involved and making the most of each day at Parc. Over the past six years at Curry Villa, he has built a life filled with meaningful routines, strong connections, and opportunities to contribute. Whether he is working, performing, or spending time with friends, Peter brings enthusiasm and a genuine sense of pride to everything he does.

At Parc, creativity is a powerful way to express yourself, connect with others and share what makes you unique. Alyssa brings that spirit to life through her artwork, her role as a Parc Ambassador and her participation in the Parc choir. Her story is a joyful example of how meaningful opportunities can help individuals build confidence, form connections and share their talents with the community.

From finding new ways to communicate and manage big emotions to confidently showing off everything she knows, Blake continues to reach exciting milestones at Parc. Surrounded by a caring team that encourages her individual strengths, she is gaining new skills, building confidence, and showing everyone around her just how brightly her capabilities can shine.

After two decades at Parc, Holly continues to find new ways to make a difference. As a choir member, Parc Gives Back volunteer, and now a sign language instructor, she's inspiring others by sharing her talents and helping build a more connected community.

Am'ier joined Parc's Discovery Learning Center after being born with a condition that requires him to use a wheelchair. At one point, his family was told that he might never speak. Like many children facing developmental challenges, Am'ier's family was searching for answers, support, and opportunities that would help him reach his full potential. They Found Parc Center for Disabilities Tom and May James Children's Services Center.

For 19 years, Jacob has called Parc home as growing from a young boy into a vibrant 29-year-old whose love for baseball, music, and community shines brightly every day. Despite living with an intellectual disability, Cerebral Palsy, a seizure disorder, and vision impairment, Jacob continues to inspire those around him with his joyful spirit, determination, and passion for experiencing life to the fullest.

My name is Luis, and my journey is a reflection of how early support and strong family involvement can help young learners thrive. I am five years old, and since beginning Early Intervention Services at Parc, I’ve had the opportunity to grow in ways that continue to surprise everyone around me. I came in with a love for learning and a curiosity about the world, and quickly found a supportive environment where I was encouraged to explore, communicate, and build new skills.

In recognition of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we are honored to introduce Jason, a remarkable individual whose life is a powerful testament to resilience, love, and the impact of a supportive community. Born several weeks premature, Jason faced significant medical challenges from the very beginning, yet through unwavering family support and compassionate care, he has continued to defy expectations and thrive.

My name is Bastian, but most call me Bash and my journey is a reflection of how the right support can help capabilities shine. At just three years old, I walked through the doors of Parc’s Discovery Learning Center carrying more than a backpack, I carried uncertainty from too many transitions and not enough stability. But everything changed when I was welcomed into a space built just for me: inclusive, nurturing, and designed around my unique strengths. I found my voice, built confidence, and even learned to ride a bike, celebrating every milestone with the people who believed in me from the very beginning.

I am Onyx, and my story is one of rare challenges, incredible resilience, and a joyful transformation made possible by the support and hope I found at Parc’s Discovery Learning Center. At Discovery Learning Center, I receive all of my therapies on campus from a team that sees my abilities first. Here. I am not defined by my diagnosis, I am celebrated for my progress. Thank you for making me shine.

I am Michelle, and my journey is one of hard work, determination, and believing in what is possible.

When Armani joined the Family Focus program on August 16, 2023, he faced challenges in language, cognitive development, and fine motor skills. But today, just a year later, he’s a shining example of what’s possible when dedication, teamwork, and love come together.

Creativity has always been one of Lisa’s many strengths. During her time in Parc’s Inspired Artist Program, she poured her heart into vibrant works of art that spoke volumes. Her family still cherishes those paintings, each one a beautiful reflection of her spirit and talent.

At just 25 weeks gestation, Jack underwent fetal surgery to repair a Spina Bifida lesion on his spine. His first month in the NICU was filled with surgeries, challenges, and moments of unimaginable uncertainty. But Jack’s story is one of strength, perseverance, and light.

Every great story begins with a warm hello, and Chelsea Savannah Brown knows just how to make an entrance. With a smile that lights up the room and her signature greeting, “Hello, my name is Chelsea Savannah Brown!”, Chelsea radiates confidence, joy, and a true zest for life.

Adrian was born on May 16, 2020—a beautiful little boy with a cleft lip and cleft palate, and a spirit full of determination. In just a few short years, Adrian has already undergone multiple surgeries, including two major ones to repair his lip and palate. He's also had ear tube procedures and will continue his medical journey with resilience and strength. But Adrian's story isn’t just about challenges—it’s about progress, potential, and the power of early intervention.

Psychology students Marcella and Nancy, from Keiser University, recently completed a 40-hour internship at Parc Center for Disabilities, and their short time on campus made a big impact.

Typically known for nursing placements, Keiser’s psychology program is relatively small, and this was the first time Parc had welcomed psychology interns. After discovering Parc online, the students’ professor reached out to initiate a partnership that aligned with both the university’s goals and Parc’s mission of inclusion and empowerment.

At just four years old, Gideon has faced challenges most never will. Born with Classical Phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder that prevents his body from breaking down phenylalanine, his diet is strictly limited to seven grams of protein per day. Without proper medical food, PKU can lead to severe developmental issues, yet access to this essential nutrition is a costly battle.

During Celebrate Literacy Week, George, a valued member of our maintenance team, gave more than just his time—he gave the gift of storytelling, imagination, and connection. With warmth and enthusiasm, he read Pete the Cat: Construction Destruction to the children in the Shark and Seahorse classrooms, bringing the story to life and filling the room with joy. Their excitement was undeniable as they followed Pete’s adventure, engaged and eager for every turn of the page.

William joined Parc Center for Disabilities in January 2022, bringing his energy and determination all the way from Chicago, Illinois. From the very beginning, William had a clear goal: to work and earn a paycheck. This was front and center during his initial support plan meeting.

Two-year-old Murphy W. came to Parc’s Discovery Learning Center just three months ago, but his journey is already one of incredible growth and hope. Before joining Discovery Learning Center, Murphy faced overwhelming challenges at his previous daycare. Each drop-off was heart-wrenching—his crying and screaming made it clear he wasn’t feeling safe or supported. Pick-ups weren’t any better, as tears still lingered in his little eyes. His family watched helplessly as Murphy struggled with transitions, faced frustrations from not being able to express himself verbally, and failed to find comfort in an environment that didn’t meet his needs.

Meet Bao, a 37-year-old resident at Parc Center for Disabilities. Bao, originally from Vietnam, grew up surrounded by his family, including his three loving sisters.

Meet Leila, a vibrant 5-year-old whose journey has inspired everyone at Discovery Learning Center.

From the start, Leila faced significant developmental challenges. At just 9 months old, her parents noticed she wasn’t meeting milestones—she couldn’t roll over, sit up, or eat well. At her 12-month check-up, she was diagnosed with microcephaly, and despite interventions, she continued to struggle with eating.

Logan’s journey is a beautiful testament to the power of compassion, dedication, and expert care. At just five years old, Logan and his family found themselves at a crossroads, facing challenges they didn’t yet fully understand. Logan’s ongoing ear issues required tubes, and he had to undergo surgery to remove his tonsils and adenoids. His mother noticed his speech was delayed but didn’t realize the depth of his needs until they met Kristie, an early intervention teacher with Parc Center for Disabilities’ Family Focus program. That meeting marked the beginning of an incredible journey of growth and transformation.

At just 37 years old, Ricky faced some of life’s most daunting challenges. Living with an intellectual disability and managing insulin-dependent diabetes, Ricky’s world turned upside down after the devastating loss of his mother, his primary caregiver. Thrust into a harsh and neglectful environment, he endured confinement, mistreatment, and the stripping away of his independence and dignity. Isolated and overwhelmed by despair, Ricky felt as though all hope was lost.

Meet Vicky, a beacon of kindness and the most helpful person you'll ever encounter. Vicky is a very pleasant individual who loves to lend a hand to others, whether it’s helping someone move or assisting with any other task. Her Supported Living Coach, Trish, often says, “Vicky will go out of her way to help others.” For Vicky, the word “no” simply doesn’t exist.

Xander ROCKED his parents’ world when he pummeled his way through and decided to make his appearance to the world at just 24 weeks, weighing in at a mere 1lb 13oz. Xander spent 117 days in the NICU before going home.

Meet Alex, an amazingly creative young man with a heart full of dreams and a spirit that knows no bounds. Alex, an only child, is nearly 21 years old and has Autism. During his childhood, he had a close-knit family circle and limited social interactions outside of that. This meant he had fewer opportunities to develop a wider range of social skills. High school was particularly challenging for Alex. Despite being enrolled in the Vocational Rehabilitation's Discovery Program through the Florida Department of Education, he struggled to make friends.

This Blonde Likes to Have Fun: The Story of Michelle

Meet Michelle, a vivacious and spirited 70-year-old. Michelle's journey with Parc Center for Disabilities began shortly after she graduated from Nina Harris ESE in the 1970s, back when she lived with her mother and brother. In 1980, Michelle made the move to Parc Center for Disabilities, a decision that initially filled her mother with hesitation. However, once Michelle settled in and made friends, her mother felt relieved and happy, knowing her daughter was thriving.

Meet Karen, she had been a participant at the Inspired Artist Studios for many years. During the pandemic, Karen stayed home for nearly 3 years, where she lives independently in a supported living setting. During this time, she was missing the creative outlet she experienced at Parc Center for Disabilities.

Meet Gavin, a resident at Curry Villa.  Prior to entering Parc’s Center for Disabilities’ residential services program 2-1/2 years ago, Gavin had experienced devastating trauma along with emotional and physical neglect. He was completely alone and was under medical care at a local hospital for several months. In addition, his teeth were in very poor condition.

Grace is 2-1/2 years old and began attending Parc’s Discovery Learning Center at 6 months of age.  Despite having Down Syndrome, Grace radiates joy and self-love, often seen admiring her reflection, smiling, and playfully kissing her image in the mirror. Her enthusiasm extends to dancing, where she gleefully moves to any tune, using the mirror as her stage.

Bennett is 7 years old and has a rare chromosome 6 deletion, hydrocephalus, epilepsy, sensory processing disorder, and cortical visual impairment which cause delays in all areas of his development. He started as an infant in Parc’s Discovery Learning Center preschool, and his family later enrolled in Parc’s Caregiver Relief program, which provides his caregivers with vital breaks from everyday caretaking duties for Bennett.

Davani was born 16 weeks early and his weight was measured in ounces. Davani was born a fighter, and with the love of his family, he was eventually able to come home. Davani has Cerebral Palsy as well as other health issues.

Lisa has been with Parc Center for Disabilities for 46 years. In 1973 the family moved to Florida from Michigan and in 1976, Lisa was evaluated by Bert Muller himself. Lisa lived at home with her mom for 42 years and came to the Parc Center for Disabilities campus daily on our vans until 2018 when she moved into Curry Villa. During this transition, Lisa’s family worked closely with Parc Center for Disabilities staff, which was a collaboration and a partnership to make sure Lisa was productive and independent.

Meet DeAeira, one of our adult participants who was born with intellectual disabilities and a vision impairment. Following the death of her mother in 2019, DeAeira was left alone with a life no one prepared her for and a house she could not afford. She had no family, no support, and no confidence in her abilities to work and earn an income. DeAeira was about to lose everything, including her will to live.