About

Mission

Our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment where individuals with disabilities ages 3–21 can learn, grow, and thrive. We support each child’s journey toward independence and self-expression through meaningful experiences that inspire confidence, curiosity, and connection.

Vision

We envision a community where every individual with disabilities is empowered to live with confidence, independence, and joy. Our work creates inclusive opportunities, meaningful relationships, and spaces where every child and young adult is celebrated for exactly who they are.

Our Leaders

Emily Bartscher 

Co-Director, Owner

From a young age, Emily was shaped by her friendship with Megan, who had cerebral palsy and complex medical needs. For 22 years, Megan taught her the true meaning of love, patience, and purpose. After Megan’s passing, Emily began hosting monthly respite care nights, and has now done so for the past 13 years, to honor her memory—creating joyful, safe spaces for children with disabilities and giving parents a chance to rest and connect. Thirteen years later, those nights remain one of her greatest joys.

By day, Emily teaches early childhood special education, supporting 3- to 5-year-olds with multiple disabilities and has done so for the past 14 years. She is passionate about helping each child feel safe, engaged, and celebrated for who they are, using her background in ASL, basic Braille, and inclusive communication.

As a single mother through adoption to two incredible daughters, Phoenyx (14) and Shylah (8)—both with multiple disabilities—Emily lives this mission daily. Her personal and professional missions are grounded in one goal: ensuring that children and families feel seen, supported, and loved.

Dr. Sarah Parmenter

Co-Director, Owner

Sarah’s dedication to inclusion began in middle school and grew through raising her son Jaiden, who has cerebral palsy and complex medical needs. Her personal journey shaped a deep understanding of the challenges families face—and the importance of high-quality, dependable support.

Professionally, Sarah has served as both a special education teacher and as Assistant Director of Special Education in the Harrisburg School District, overseeing programs across eight schools. She also teaches at Augustana University, preparing future educators to meet the evolving needs of students with disabilities.

Her work is rooted in advocacy, inclusion, and ensuring every child has access to compassionate, individualized care.

Dignity

Every child is treated with respect, care, and a belief in their strengths.

Inclusion

We build environments where all children can participate fully and meaningfully.

Safety

We prioritize emotional, physical, and sensory safety in every interaction and space.

Family Partnership

We walk alongside families, honoring their expertise and supporting their goals.

What Makes Us Unique

We combine before and after school care, structured respite, weekend programming, and summer supports into one inclusive, disability-competent environment. Our team is trained to support sensory needs, behavioral needs, communication differences, and medical complexities – providing families with dependable care they can trust.