Lakeshia Jenkins

In 1995, a frustrated but visionary group of parents of children with autism started our organization to bridge the services gaps their families faced. We’re still passionate about serving people with Autism, but our mission has expanded to include systems level work for all types of developmental disabilities. Since our humble beginnings around a kitchen table, we’ve grown to an organization with a budget of $3.7 million. It’s an exciting time at CA. We’re doing things differently. In order to amplify our impact we work in both the public and private sectors. And although we provide some direct services, we concentrate on reimagining human services systems. We focus on: Identifying gaps, building awareness, and creating a vision for improving systems. Educating, training and supporting our communities. Modeling and replicating best practices and services in inclusive settings. This systems change work often takes longer, but it can be transformational, and that’s why we’re here. Every day, we work toward a future where the most vulnerable Virginians of all ages can participate in every aspect of our community and realize their full potential collaboration.