Leading this organization is no small undertaking, what has been your approach to building a strong leadership team to ensure The Help Group continues to thrive?

Leadership is about building bridges. It’s about recognizing that we are all interconnected, that our strength lies in our collective wisdom and compassion. I’m incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by an extraordinary team – our dedicated Board of Directors, with their diverse expertise and unwavering commitment, and our incredible leadership team and staff.

Speaking of our Board, we’ve been incredibly fortunate to welcome two exceptional new members this year: Aaron Coleman, Senior Vice President, Portfolio Construction and Risk Management, at Oaktree Capital Management, and Jae Hyun, Senior Manager at Forvis Mazars. Their guidance, along with the continued support of our entire Board, is essential as we navigate the complexities of running such a large organization.

And then there’s our phenomenal leadership team. Many have been by my side for years, like Oscar Valadez, our Chief Financial Officer, whose steady hand guides our financial health and operational strength, and Elena Brewer, our Executive Vice President of Clinical Programs, whose passion for our mission is contagious. Pam Clark, our Vice President of School Administration, has been instrumental in ensuring our educational programs are of the highest quality, and Ken Moon, our Vice President of Information Technology, keeps us connected and moving forward in this digital age.

We’ve been blessed to welcome new leaders this year, each bringing unique strengths to The Help Group. Dr. Shayne Horan, our Vice President of Schools, has already infused our schools with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Marc Harrington-Brent, our Vice President of External Affairs, is building powerful connections within the community, amplifying our voice and impact. Steve Dorfman, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, is expertly guiding our growth and ensuring we stay focused on our long-term goals. Anita Sarad, our Vice President of People and Culture, has fostered an even more supportive and inclusive environment for our dedicated staff. And Tracy West-Grubb, our Chief Strategy & Chief Program Development Officer, our newest member, is enthusiastically undertaking the vital role of seeking innovative ways to serve our community and expand our reach.

Of course, none of this would be possible without our extraordinary staff. Every day, they show up with passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in the potential of the individuals we serve. I am constantly inspired by their commitment to excellence.

It’s this spirit of collaboration, of shared vision, and the diverse talents of each of these individuals that allows us to achieve so much more than any one individual could alone.

Hope is at the heart of everything we do at The Help Group. What have you witnessed this year that speaks to the transformative power of hope?

Yes, it’s a constant source of inspiration! Witnessing growth, accomplishments, sheer determination to overcome challenges… It fills me with such pride. In our Schools, our graduation ceremonies this past June were incredibly moving. To see our young people, who have faced so many obstacles, walk across that stage with their heads held high, knowing that they have the tools to navigate life’s journey… It’s a testament to the power of specialized education, to the dedication of our teachers, and to the resilience of the human spirit. We believe that hope is the key to unlocking potential, to empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives, and that belief fuels everything we do.

Mental health has become an increasingly urgent concern. How has The Help Group stepped up to address this challenge?

We can’t ignore the silent struggles that so many individuals face. Mental health is intertwined with every aspect of well-being, and it’s our responsibility to create a safety net, a space where those who are hurting can find support and healing. Expanding our mental health services has been a priority this year. Through programs like Lumina, we’re providing comprehensive care that addresses mental health challenges. And events like our Mental Health Matters Breakfast, where we honored the incredible work of Dr. Lisa Wong, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, and also featured insightful presentations from leading experts, was a truly impactful event that sparked crucial conversations about the need to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, to foster open discussions, and to ensure that everyone has access to the care they deserve.

The Help Group is known for its vibrant and heartwarming community events. How do these events contribute to the organization’s overall impact?

Community is our lifeblood. It’s the interwoven tapestry of families, staff, volunteers, and partners that gives The Help Group its strength and its heart. Our events are a celebration of this community, a chance to connect, to share joy, and to remind ourselves that we are all in this together. The Music for Autism concerts, where we see children light up with the joy of music; the Festival of Arts, where our students’ creativity shines; the Special Needs Resource Fair, where families find support and guidance. These events are not just gatherings; they are expressions of our shared humanity. They remind us that inclusivity is not just a goal, but a way of life.

The physical environment plays a significant role in learning and well-being. Tell us about the exciting enhancements happening on The Help Group’s campus.

We believe that learning should be an immersive experience, one that engages all the senses and fosters a sense of belonging. That’s why we’re so thrilled to be investing in our facilities, creating dynamic spaces where our students can truly thrive.

Imagine our students enjoying friendly competition and building camaraderie on our new pickleball courts! This inclusive sport promotes physical activity, social interaction, and a sense of accomplishment. And with the addition of a state-of-the-art track and field, along with plans for a baseball and soccer field, there will be even more opportunities for movement, play, and connection.

Of course, we also recognize the importance of quiet spaces for reflection and sensory regulation. Our plans for sensory gardens will provide a haven of peace and tranquility, a place where students can connect with nature and recharge.

Inside, we’re expanding our woodshop to become a hub of exploration and skill development. This investment in vocational education will empower students to discover hidden talents and find joy in the process of creating.

We’re also creating an enrichment center to include a large motor sensory room, a dedicated music and dance area, and a fully equipped fitness room. We’ll also have a daily living skills kitchen, a vocational lab, and an art studio – all designed to provide specialized activities tailored to each student’s unique needs.

These new and improved spaces represent our commitment to providing a holistic education that nurtures every aspect of our students’ development. We can’t wait to see them flourish in these vibrant, engaging spaces!

As you look ahead to your second year as CEO, what are your hopes and dreams for The Help Group?

Hope is the foundation of our work. It’s the belief that even in the face of adversity, positive change is possible.

I’m filled with excitement for the future. We have reimagined signature events like Summit and Carnival. Our 28th Annual Summit, “Imagining Possibilities,” which took place in-person at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, focused on critical areas including early intervention, education, support for young adults, and social-emotional well-being, featuring 19 experts from across the country, with keynote speaker, Dr. Dan Siegel.

As we approach 2025, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of awe and gratitude for the legacy we’ve built. This milestone is a testament to the countless individuals who have joined me in investing their hearts and souls into The Help Group. It’s a reminder that our work is far from over. We will continue to innovate, to advocate, to create a world where every individual is valued and empowered to reach their fullest potential. That’s the dream that keeps me moving forward, the dream that makes all of this worthwhile.