Veronica Garcia-Benné grew up and attended college in Texas, earning a degree in child and family studies. She also worked for Kohl’s as an admin for about 10 years. While still living in Texas, she and her husband started noticing developmental delays in their son.
Her brother and sister-in-law lived in the Phoenix area and have two children with disabilities. They encouraged Veronica and her family to relocate to the Valley for family support and to access their knowledge of local resources.
Upon moving to Arizona and staying home with her children for a bit, Veronica started working as a case manager for Arizona Children’s Association. Here, she gained years of experience in the behavioral health field. Not long after she started this position, her son was diagnosed with autism. She also has a daughter who was later diagnosed with autism.
Veronica met Encircle Families Executive Director Christopher Tiffany at an event and learned more about the organization. She joined the Encircle Families Positive Family Coaching team in August 2023. In this position, she supports families whose children receive behavioral health services through AHCCCS insurance. Veronica is bilingual, providing resources in English or Spanish.
“I wanted to help families who were in similar situations as me,” Veronica said. “I love connecting with families and helping them find resources to support their situations. I learn so much in this position to help others, which is also helpful for my family.”
Veronica’s son now lives in a DDD group home due to behaviors. Her daughter lives with Veronica and her husband. Veronica has a passion for supporting youth living in group homes.
She lives in Gilbert and likes going to movies, taking road trips and visiting her son whenever possible. She also enjoys volunteering for nonprofit organizations, especially ones that share resources with families affected by special needs, behaviors or foster care.
