Professionally, Kerry Palma-Szalay, Speech-Language Pathologist, has always worked to develop solutions. . As a professional who worked with adults with developmental disabilities, she also shared the Direct Therapy Services team’s view that if they could reach children and families earlier, they could potentially change the course of their clients’ lives. She became part of the core team that helped to establish the early intervention program that is now known as Aprendamos.
“That idea turned into action, and that action became Aprendamos,” Kerry said. While they started small, with just one early intervention program, she felt like their vision was ambitious. “We wanted to be able to stand alongside families and partner with them to help their children reach their highest potential.” For Kerry, it also felt special to start a program that provided services for children. “Most of us grew up in the very communities we serve, and raised our families here,” she said.
As the early intervention program took shape, she began to understand that every family came to Aprendamos with their own story, their own culture, and their own hopes and challenges. This led to the team making a commitment to providing services that are compassionate, culturally responsive, and shaped by the strength of the families served.
As the needs of the community grew, so did the programs offered by Aprendamos. “Over the last two decades, Aprendamos expanded its programs and partnerships to support children and families at every stage of life—not just through early intervention, but through a network of services that wrap around families when they need them most,” she said. In support of these programs, Aprendamos also expanded its team to meet the needs of children and families. Kerry remains in awe of the team members who have walked along families on their early intervention, home visiting, children’s therapy, autism services, and counseling journeys. “All of our team members—past and present—are the heart of the organization and have played a vital role in the growth of Aprendamos,” she shared. She credits their passion, expertise, creativity and care for families for the many client success stories she hears in the community. “Their willingness to go the extra mile for every family, that is what makes the difference. They show up every day with their whole heart.”
Looking ahead, Kerry feels Aprendamos isn’t finished evolving. “We know the journey is far from over and we are committed to continuing our partnerships, expanding our programs, and finding new ways to meet the needs of families. This is home and we are deeply invested in helping our communities thrive.”
Thank you, Kerry, for two decades of guidance and leadership and for making a meaningful difference for our children, families, and our community!
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