When the O’Hare family first reached out to Encircle Families years ago, their son Jack was starting in the Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP). With Jack not speaking yet and the pediatrician sharing her concerns, Ellen O’Hare needed guidance and support. The Family Support team at Encircle Families provided help, direction and resources for her family.
As he grew, Jack was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. “We leaned hard on Encircle Families to help us find everything from doctors and therapists to special needs planning and transition services,” Ellen shared. She loved attending Encircle Families workshops and gaining helpful information and strategies. She also learned how to work with Jack’s school team to get appropriate services in place. Throughout his school years and into adulthood, Encircle Families has supported the O’Hare family.
Because of this support, Ellen became one of our beloved parent leaders and she loves mentoring other families. “In our house, ‘Pay it Forward’ is not a catchphrase – it’s a lifestyle,” Ellen added. “We are grateful for Encircle Families and the parent leaders who helped us. If our experience can help others, we are more than happy to share!”
Today Jack is a happy, thriving adult who studies Forensic Science at Arizona State University! He also enjoys chess, role-playing games and playing the drums. “Even though our son is no longer a kid, Encircle Families is still our go-to resource for helpful referrals, services and workshops,” Ellen said. “We plan to have a lifelong relationship with Encircle Families!”
