OUR HISTORY
PEAK was born through of the vision of former SPED Director, Ben Springer, who wanted to: connect with parents of kids of all abilities and give them a voice in special education programming; raise awareness of the the hard work of parents and teachers of kids of all abilities; raise funds for underfunded federal and state programs, particularly preschool and post-high, for kids of all abilities; and a group of passionate parents committed to work together with the school district to create something better for our kids with unique abilities.
WHO WE ARE
Are you old enough to know the lyrics to James Taylor's song "You've Got a Friend"? If not, look them up. If so, think of these lyrics playing in the background of our meetings and know that this group of parents "get it". We understand that every day is filled with more than is possible to do, and then you get a call from the office of the specialist you have been waiting to get your child in to see for months. They've had an opening come up...at the exact same time as your other child's special school presentation. We understand that you got 2 hours of sleep the night before because your child's oxygen levels kept dropping and you had to take him to the ER...at midnight. We get it when we see you waiting out a complete tantrum in the middle of the grocery store and you don't need a snooty stare or a "can't she get her child under control" muttered under breath by strangers. What you need are empathetic eyes and a "you are doing a great job momma" softly spoken. We know that calls to speak with insurance about the denial you received for a necessary procedure, or the paperwork...all the dreaded paperwork sucks more time from your life than you want to think about. We also understand the beauty of celebrating the milestones that come later than expected, the gratitude for teachers and therapists who put heart into their work, and the longing for a true friend to love and watch out for your child. There is a bond and support that grows quickly among us because we get it. So, if you can't make it to a meeting last minute. Or meetings aren't a possibility and you want to join with us to contribute in other ways, we get it.
We adapt. It's kind of our thing.
There are a myriad of ways to participate. If you have any interest in joining us, don't hesitate to reach out. We want and need what you have to offer. Email us at wasatchpeakparents@gmail.com.
OUR BOARD
BECKY PHILLIPS
Board Chair
ERIN SABEY
Board Vice Chair
ABBY HENDRICKS
Treasurer
TABATHA BENZLER
Secretary
PAULINA GANUNG
Marketing Chair
ELIZA WOODLAND
Fundraising Chair
RACHEL ROWE
Events Coordinator
MICHELE THOMAS
Events Coordinator
Linda Dix
Events Coordinator
LINKS TO HELPFUL RESOURCES
DSPD :
The Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) promotes opportunities
and provides supports for people with disabilities to lead self-determined lives by
overseeing home and community-based services. Support includes community living,
day services, and supported employment services.
Autism Council Of Utah :
The Autism Council of Utah (ACU) is an independent council working to foster
collaboration, communication, and learning among families and agencies. Our aim is
to promote access to resources and responsible information for individuals of all ages
who have or are affected by autism, or related conditions.
Utah Down Syndrome Foundation :
Established in 1977, the Utah Down Syndrome Foundation (UDSF) mission is to provide
hope to individuals, their families and community through support, education, activities,
outreach and advocacy.
National Abilities Center :
Empowers individuals with disabilities through the transformative power of
adaptive recreation and adventure.