100% of young adults with developmental disabilities age out of support services leaving them and their families with limited resources".
There are reasons why young adults with special needs lack opportunities and resources for programs as they transition into adulthood. These reasons are centered on the 3 A’s – Awareness, Advocacy and Activism. Most are unaware of the need when in fact 100% of young adults age out of public support services at age 22. Of those, only a percentage have access to vocational, residential and day-habilitation programs covered by the state. Majority are left to care for their loved ones, typically requiring a family member to stay home and be out of work themselves. Advocates in the special need’s arena, not unlike other causes, work in silos. Efforts to raise funding, host events, share resources and collective efforts are fragmented leading to inefficiencies and the wasting of scarce resources. Opportunities to promote change and make an impact require overcoming significant barriers, competing with established institutions and protection of the status quo.
The New Transitions Center is dedicated to doing things a bit different. We may be small but we have big plans and we are just getting started. Our approach is simple, meet all 3 A’s where we are now with a growth plan for the future. Awareness starts at the community level and in Roanoke, Texas The Center is the only Day-Habilitation space for young adults with special needs. We are the first but hopefully not the only.
The team behind the center are deeply rooted in creating a space that nurtures and provides opportunities for growth. Founding parents Dr. Jay and Risa Bender found themselves like many parents with young adults with special needs searching for options for their son Duncan when he aged out of the public school system. With no options available they sought to build a space not just for their son but for other families who face the same challenges. The Center is a personal mission for The Benders and one that inspires the whole team behind their efforts.
The New Transitions Center is dedicated to doing things a bit different. We may be small but we have big plans and we are just getting started. Our approach is simple, meet all 3 A’s where we are now with a growth plan for the future. Awareness starts at the community level and in Roanoke, Texas The Center is the only Day-Habilitation space for young adults with special needs. We are the first but hopefully not the only.
The team behind the center are deeply rooted in creating a space that nurtures and provides opportunities for growth. Founding parents Dr. Jay and Risa Bender found themselves like many parents with young adults with special needs searching for options for their son Duncan when he aged out of the public school system. With no options available they sought to build a space not just for their son but for other families who face the same challenges. The Center is a personal mission for The Benders and one that inspires the whole team behind their efforts.
Mission Statement
A community-based center to enhance the lives of young adults with special needs and the loved ones who support them
The Team
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Jay BenderFounder, Chair of the Board
Jay is an orthopedic surgeon in Denton. As a parent of an adult with special needs Jay and his wife advocate for those with disabilities. They look forward to building a program centered on dignity, love and growth. |
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Amber CaldwellActing Executive Director
Amber has 12 plus years experience as a leader in non-profit development for organizations across academics, global health and public-private initiatives. Her role will assist with strategic development, operations and growth. |
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Duncan BenderFounding Client, In Memory
Duncan, passed away in November 2020 and this heartbreaking loss has been a difficult journey to healing as Duncan is the inspiration behind The Center. When he graduated form high school his family found no options in the community to continue learning and growing amongst his peers. Duncan was not alone in this need and although he is no longer with us his spirit and energy ignites our mission and we are proud to continue his legacy. |
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Tira smithProgram Director
Tira brings 18+ years experience working with youth of all ages in residential facilities, group homes, and as an independent contractor led vocational skills training programs in Indiana. She leads our parent engagement and participant recruitment with goals of creating a strong community. |
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BRITTANY JACOBERCare Coach
Brittany recently moved from Colorado to be closer to family. She really enjoys the food and culture in Texas. She has a chihuahua named Leroy, who is the man of the house. In Colorado she worked with both animals, and adults with disabilities. She finds that her passion in life is in both of those fields and is excited for the opportunity to be here and start new adventures in Texas! |
