Introduction:

Welcome to my personal journey. It all started at the end of 2020 when I made a pivotal decision to transition from working at the NeuroBehavioral Unit (NBU) at Kennedy Krieger Institute to a home-based BCBA role. My goal was to save money to pay off student loans before embarking on a PhD journey. Little did I know, this decision would lead me to an incredible mission.

As 2021 unfolded, I began working with multiple families from diverse backgrounds, and I witnessed firsthand the numerous challenges faced by underrepresented families. The most striking challenge was the lack of access to special education support and behavioral services. At that time, I was the primary support for two Latino families, as there was a shortage of bilingual BCBAs.

A Shift in My Focus 🚀:

My commitment deepened as I decided to exclusively work with underrepresented families, mostly Latino families. I quickly realized that ABA services were just a small part of the comprehensive support these families needed. Every day, they grappled with the complexities and often confusing rules and regulations that affected their children's entitlements. During this year, I was also able to keep supporting my community at a different level doing some advocacy work through the Autism Society of Maryland by co-leading a Latino Parent Support Group and serving as a Board Member.

The Birth of Amigo Care 🌱:

In early 2022, I took the leap and founded Amigo Care ABA. Initially, it was a modest project intended to provide support to a few clients while I pursued my PhD. However, I couldn't ignore the overwhelming demand for assistance from Latino families, and that inspired me to expand my efforts.

Overcoming My Challenges 💪🏽:

The journey to establish Amigo Care ABA was riddled with challenges. There were moments when I wanted to give up, feeling overwhelmed by the unexpected obstacles. Fortunately, I had a strong support system that believed in this project, encouraging me to persevere and reminding me of the positive impact I was making.

My Team - the Backbone of Amigo Care 💙:

I want to express my profound gratitude to the incredible team that has stood by my side. They are the heart and soul of Amigo Care, motivating me to push forward and believing that, with the right intentions and dedication, we can create remarkable change.

I am fortunate to work with a group of individuals who are not only highly skilled in their respective roles but also deeply dedicated to our cause. Our team consists of BCBAs, RBTs, therapists, and support staff, each playing a crucial part in delivering our services to the Latino families we serve. Their diverse talents and backgrounds enrich our approach, allowing us to tailor our support to meet the specific needs of each family.

A Collaborative Spirit 🤝🏼:

What truly sets our team apart is our collaborative spirit. We operate as a close-knit unit, constantly sharing insights, learning from each other, and brainstorming innovative ways to improve our services. This collaborative culture allows us to stay agile and responsive, adapting to the evolving needs of the families we serve.

Every member of our team shares a heartfelt commitment to our mission. They understand that the work we do extends far beyond clinical services; it's about changing lives, breaking down barriers, and providing hope. This shared dedication is what fuels our collective drive to make a positive impact on the Latino community.

Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness 🌍:

I deeply appreciate those who have chosen to join us, especially those who have taken on the challenge of working with families for whom English is not their primary language. Together, we continually learn how to break down barriers and improve cultural sensitivity and awareness among our families.

Conclusion:

I couldn't be prouder of the impact this project has had on countless families. I believe Amigo Care will continue to be a beacon of hope, illumination, and support for underserved families for many years to come.

I am immensely thankful for the support and love that has fueled my journey. Together, we are making a difference, and I firmly believe that, with the right hearts and hands, we can create remarkable change. Follow our journey as we move forward with hope, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to our mission.