Provide Scholarships for Adults with Disabilities

When Leeza Ajit first arrived at SPARC’s new Herndon Center five months ago, she was quiet and unsure of how to navigate this new chapter of her life. The transition from full-time school to adulthood can be daunting for young adults with disabilities, and Leeza struggled to adjust. She often kept to herself, hesitant to communicate or participate in group activities. However, thanks to the welcoming environment and specialized support made possible by federal funding, Leeza has blossomed into a confident and engaged participant.

Through consistent encouragement and structured activities, Leeza has developed self-advocacy skills, improved her communication, and become an active member of the SPARC community. Learning her interests and preferences has been key to her progress. She thrives in activities that incorporate movement—grabbing, throwing, and pouring have become some of her favorite ways to engage. One of the places where she shines most is the gym, where she enjoys throwing basketballs, listening to music, and taking laps both indoors and outside when the weather is nice.

The impact of SPARC has not only transformed Leeza’s daily life but has also profoundly changed her family’s experience at home. Before joining SPARC, her parents and siblings struggled to find ways to engage with her. As her mother shared, “We weren’t sure HOW to interact with her at home, but being at SPARC has changed that.” Now, Leeza brings home the skills and confidence she has gained, making her more engaged with her family. Her siblings, who once watched from a distance, now look forward to playing games with her, celebrating the new connections they have built.

The Herndon Center, made possible through federal funding, has given Leeza and her family a new sense of hope. It has provided her with opportunities for personal growth, independence, and social connection—opportunities that simply didn’t exist for her before. As she continues to develop new skills and interests, the goal is to further expand her involvement both at SPARC and in her home life, ensuring that she continues to thrive.

This is the power of SPARC, and this is why continued support is vital. Because of the investment in centers like Herndon, individuals like Leeza are not just participating—they are thriving.