Leading National Behavioral Healthcare Provider
Call 1-800-345-1292

Printer Icon Mail Icon Linkedin Logo Twitter Logo

Celebrating Our Devereux Families

At Devereux, our families play an integral role in achieving successful treatment and outcomes for children, adolescents and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences. Devereux’s unique approach combines evidence-based interventions with compassionate family engagement to provide practical, effective and efficient care. Look below to read stories celebrating our families, and learn how Devereux provides hope, compassion and healing as we work together, with our families, to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve every day.

 

Keita and Jerry Willis   Devereux Arizona foster parents help youth learn, grow in supportive home environment

For more than 10 years, Devereux Arizona therapeutic foster parents Keita and Jerry Willis have been providing a loving and nurturing home for youth in need. The couple began fostering at the encouragement of family members who also foster, and they have never looked back.

Justin   'I've come a long way:' Justin credits Devereux MA/RI with helping him learn new skills, thrive

Among the New England Patriots and other sports memorabilia adorning the walls of Justin's room at a Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island group home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, are certificates and awards, commending him on various life achievements

Amy Kelly   Autism Spectrum News features Devereux article on how to support families with autism

An article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, was recently featured in Autism Spectrum News. In the article – “Awareness and acceptance: 10 things I wish everyone understood about autism” – Kelly reflects on her family’s experiences over the past 20 years since her daughter, Annie, was diagnosed with autism. She also shares a few things she wishes everyone knew about autism and how to offer support.

Wynton Marsalis fundraiser event   ‘Sunday Jazz with Wynton Marsalis’ event raises more than $110,000 for Devereux NY

Devereux recently hosted an intimate concert – “Sunday Jazz with Wynton Marsalis” – at the home of Devereux New York family member Merritt Lutz, who also serves on the Devereux New York City Advisory Board, to raise critical funds for the organization’s music therapy program.

Dylan Gauthier   Reaching for the stars: Youth credits Devereux MA/RI with helping him grow – and thrive

Nineteen-year-old Dylan Gauthier is a high school senior with his own YouTube channel who dreams of becoming an actor. Dylan, who was served by Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island between 2018 and 2023, is looking forward to the future, while reflecting on the past.

Amy K   Autism Spectrum News features Devereux article on the lasting impact of simple acts of kindness

An article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, was recently featured in Autism Spectrum News. In the article – “Paying it forward: How a simple act of kindness can go a long way” – Kelly shares how the compassion and generosity of strangers during a vacation with her daughter Annie, who has autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities, among other differences, left a lasting impact.

Sieberer Family   Parents credit Devereux Pennsylvania with helping son achieve greater independence

For nearly five years, Amy Sieberer and her husband, Eric, say Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services provided their son, Jason, with the therapeutic support he needed to achieve greater independence and thrive. In May 2023, Jason graduated from the Devereux School for Integrated Learning and was discharged to a lower level of care.

Amy Kelly   Devereux article on transitioning to adult systems of care featured in Autism Spectrum News

An article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement, Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, was recently featured in Autism Spectrum News. In the article – “Helping families with disabilities transition from child to adult systems of care” – Kelly shares what she has learned while caring for her now 21-year-old daughter, Annie, who has autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Sebrina and Stacia   Devereux Pocono adult expresses gratitude to team member for providing care, support

At Devereux, we are committed to helping the children, adolescents and adults in our care thrive and succeed in life. Recently, an adult who receives services through Devereux Pocono wrote a letter, expressing her gratitude to Assistant Manager Stacia Gabbidon for providing the best possible support.

Tim   Securing meaningful employment: Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services student finds job success

Since he first began receiving services through Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services in 2013, Tim has been building skills for success. In 2023, Tim, who is enrolled in the Devereux School for Integrated Learning, celebrated his one-year anniversary of employment, working as a customer service associate at a Wawa convenience store in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

Amy Kelly Family   Autism Spectrum News features Devereux article on creating a summer routine for children with disabilities

An article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, was recently featured in Autism Spectrum News. In the article – “Creating a summer routine: Enriching (and fun!) activities for children with disabilities” – Kelly offers activities for families to incorporate into their summer calendar to provide structure, a sense of stability – and fun.

August Awareness   Creating a summer routine: Enriching (and fun!) activities for children with disabilities

If you are looking to create a summer routine for your child, Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, offers enriching – and fun – activities for families of children with disabilities.

Mark Toman   ‘Model employee:’ Devereux New Jersey adult excels at job in local community

Since he first began working at a Wawa convenience store in Augusta, New Jersey, in October 2022, Mark Toman, who receives services through Devereux New Jersey, has made a positive impact on his customers, colleagues and store operations.

Amy Kelly   Devereux article on the impact of stigmatizing language featured in Behavioral Health News

An article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, and Devereux Florida Clinical Director Emily Garten, LCSW, was recently featured in Behavioral Health News. The article – “The impact of stigmatizing language from family and clinical perspectives” – discusses the importance of eliminating stigmatizing language to ensure individuals facing mental health challenges receive the care and support they need.

Devereux Health Florida   Former Devereux Florida youth expresses gratitude to staff for providing support

At Devereux, we strive to help the children, adolescents and adults in our care live their best possible lives. Recently, a youth who completed specialized behavioral health treatment at Devereux Florida wrote a letter to team members, thanking them for their support, and for helping him grow – and thrive.

Eaton Family   Video: Massachusetts/Rhode Island family shares journey with Devereux

In this video, Gwen Eaton shares how Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island helped her son, Danny, overcome emotional and behavioral health challenges, learn valuable life and social skills, and become a thriving member of his local community.

Samantha VanAlstyne   Devereux New York adult discusses her children’s book on WAMC Northeast Public Radio's Roundtable program

Listen as Samantha VanAlstyne, who receives services through Devereux New York, discusses her children’s book titled, “Hi, I’m Sam,” on WAMC Northeast Public Radio’s Roundtable program. VanAlstyne’s book about her journey with cerebral palsy aims to raise awareness and promote inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Saul Monaloy   Devereux New Jersey adult’s poems expressing his emotions published in book

Saul Monaloy was a senior in high school when he began writing poetry. Influenced and inspired by the rock band, Rush, Saul used his newfound talent to express everything he was feeling at the time – confusion and loneliness, as well as hopefulness and love.

National Youth Advisory Council   Students provide feedback on educational programs through Devereux’s National Youth Advisory Council

Students who sit on Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health’s National Youth Advisory Council (DYAC) are making their voices heard and providing feedback about the educational services they receive through the organization.

Falberg Family Event   Family sponsors food truck for Devereux California staff to honor loved one

The Falberg family recently sponsored a food truck to thank Devereux California staff for providing their loved one, Terry Falberg, with care and support for more than 60 years.

Amy Kelly   Amy Kelly shares journey with autism on #AnswerMyCall podcast

Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, whose daughter, Annie, has autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities shares her journey with autism and navigating systems of care on the #AnswerMyCall podcast.

Family smiling   Devereux article on engaging families in behavioral health treatment featured in Behavioral Health News

An article written by Devereux National Director of Behavioral Health Services Crystal Taylor-Dietz, Psy.D., and Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, was recently featured in Behavioral Health News. The article - “The integral role of families in promoting mental health and managing mental illness” - discusses the importance of family engagement in behavioral health treatment.

Autism Spectrum News   Autism Spectrum News features Devereux article on supporting individuals with disabilities in becoming self-advocates

An article written by Devereux team members on supporting teens and adults with disabilities in becoming self-advocates was recently featured in Autism Spectrum News. The article includes interviews with three individuals who are enrolled in Devereux Pennsylvania’s Community Adult Autism Partnership Program as they offer tips on how to ensure your voice is heard.

Autism Spectrum News   Devereux article on advocating for those who are nonspeaking or minimally verbal featured in Autism Spectrum News

Read this Autism Spectrum News article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she offers suggestions on how to advocate for those who are nonspeaking or limited in their verbal communication.

Mario   Parent credits Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island with helping son achieve success

Lorraine Clark credits Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island with helping her son, Mario, develop effective coping skills, learn how to advocate for himself and achieve success.

Sieberer family   Devereux Pennsylvania parent writes poems about family’s journey with disabilities

Amy Sieberer, whose 20-year-old son, Jason, is enrolled in a residential program at the Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services center, uses poetry as an outlet to express her thoughts and feelings about her family’s journey with disabilities, and as a way to let other parents and caregivers know they are not alone.

meaningful connections   Making meaningful connections: Amy Kelly discusses value of Devereux’s internal family support group

At Devereux, we are always looking for ways to better support our talented and hard-working team members. Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, leads a family support group for Devereux employees and their significant others who are parents, caregivers or siblings of a child or adult with autism spectrum disorder and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Amy and Annie   Devereux article on traveling with children with disabilities featured in Autism Spectrum News

Read this Autism Spectrum News article written by Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she offers tips for families traveling with children with disabilities to ensure a safe and successful trip.

foster parents   Devereux MA/RI foster parents provide safe, supportive environment for youth in need

Since 2017, Sheila Castillo and her husband, Yusel Rivera, have fostered five children through Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and in July 2021, they adopted one of the children in their care, Natalia.

Lauren Penrod   Working and thriving: Devereux Pennsylvania’s CAAPP program helps Lauren Penrod achieve success

Working two jobs, Lauren Penrod, who receives services through Devereux Pennsylvania, has one goal: to continue to learn as many new skills as possible. Lauren has been employed at T.J. Maxx department store in Abington, Pa. since 2015, and in 2021, she took on a second job at Giant supermarket in Doylestown, Pa.

Zelli   Devereux Pennsylvania CIDDS helps family overcome challenges, find comfort in care

Carmela and Anthony Zelli, Sr., struggled to find a residential behavioral healthcare facility that could meet the unique needs of their son, Anthony, who has autism and intellectual disabilities. Then, they discovered Devereux Pennsylvania.

Barbara and daughter Beka   Parent helps raise more than $13,000 for Devereux Texas’ Community Living Program

Barbara Ryan, whose daughter Bekah has been enrolled in Devereux Texas’ Community-based Living Program at the organization’s Victoria campus for the past nine years, recently launched a fundraiser to show support for the program and express gratitude to team members for all they have done to help her daughter thrive.

Xavier Stagg   Former Devereux Pennsylvania CBHS youth focuses on bright future

Whether he is filling out college applications, applying for scholarships or exploring internship opportunities, 17-year-old old Xavier Stagg is focused on his future - one full of endless possibilities.

Samantha VanAlstyne   Devereux New York adult writes children’s book about journey with cerebral palsy

Samantha VanAlstyne is a devoted aunt, dedicated college student - and most recently - published author. VanAlstyne, who receives services through Devereux New York, wrote a children’s book titled, “Hi, I’m Sam,” about her journey with cerebral palsy and learning self-acceptance.

Erin Clemens   Building a healthier tomorrow: Erin Clemens explains why she wanted to receive the COVID-19 vaccine

Erin Clemens, who receives services through Devereux Pennsylvania, waited the recommended two weeks after receiving the second dose of her COVID-19 vaccine to do something she had not done since the beginning of the pandemic - give her mother, who also was fully vaccinated, a great big hug.

Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM   Autism Journey article features Devereux’s Amy Kelly: "The unexpected, invisible gifts of COVID-19 and autism"

Read this Autism Journey article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she shares four things she learned to embrace during the pandemic, while raising a daughter with autism.

Devereux Pocono   Parents explain why they turned to Devereux Pocono to support son

Evon and Rick Peet recently wrote a letter to Devereux team members, explaining why they wanted their son to receive services through Devereux Pocono, and praising the organization for its commitment to excellence and quality of care. Look below to read their heartfelt letter.

Emily Judovits   Securing meaningful employment through Devereux Pennsylvania’s CAAPP program

Emily Judovits and Joey Baumgart credit Devereux Pennsylvania’s Community Adult Autism Partnership Program, which provides individualized and innovative community-based support services for adults with autism spectrum disorders and other disabilities, with teaching them essential job and social skills, and helping them thrive in the community.

Isaac Hammond   Achieving independence through Devereux New Jersey’s community employment program

When Isaac Hammond sets a goal for himself, all those around the 34-year-old know it is only a matter of time before he will achieve success. Hammond, who is enrolled in Devereux New Jersey’s community employment program, recently celebrated his two-year anniversary of continuous employment.

Devereux Pennsylvania’s Children’s Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services   Devereux Pennsylvania foster parent helps children thrive and achieve goals

For more than four years, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Pennsylvania therapeutic foster parent Shereen Evans has provided a safe, supportive and loving home for children in need. Since August 2019, Evans has worked with Devereux Pennsylvania’s Children’s Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services Philadelphia foster care program to help youth living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences reach their full and unique potential.

Lifesharing   Devereux Pocono family receives award from Pennsylvania Lifesharing Coalition

Devereux Pocono life share providers, Suzanne McPherson and her husband, Matthew Sinclair, recently received the Pennsylvania Lifesharing Coalition’s Northeast Region “2020 Excellence in Lifesharing Award” for their dedication and commitment to helping adults in need.

Amy Kelly   UpJourney article features Devereux’s Amy Kelly: “How to make online learning more engaging and interactive”

Read this UpJourney article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she offers creative ways to engage students through remote instruction. Kelly suggests teachers can 1) hold an online scavenger hunt; 2) start a digital “show and tell;” and 3) challenge students to create virtual field trips. Note: Kelly’s section can be found about half-way into the article.

Rock the vote   Devereux empowers adults to make their voices heard through voting

Voting is a way of making decisions and expressing views, and Devereux is committed to helping ensure adults living with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote.

Danny and Annie   Autism through a different lens - A sibling’s perspective

Read this heartwarming article - featured in Autism Spectrum News - from Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, and her son, Danny, who shares an essay about his personal journey with his sister who has autism. Danny writes, “Annie’s influence spreads into every aspect of my life, and she has given me the inspiration to make an impact in the world around me.”

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health New York   Devereux New York adult inspired to write ‘thank you’ rap song for essential employees

Wayne Robinson, who receives services through Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health New York, is using his musical talents to give thanks to the center’s front-line staff for providing the best possible care and support during COVID-19. Robinson is enrolled in Devereux New York’s adult self-advocacy program, and was recently inspired to write a rap song to show his gratitude and appreciation for the center’s essential employees.

Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM   Speech Blubs article features Devereux’s Amy Kelly: “Creative Alternatives for Continued Learning for Children with Special Needs”

Read this Speech Blubs article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she offers creative alternatives for continued learning - at home - to help children with special needs develop the skills needed to grow and thrive. Kelly says, “When it comes time to return to the classroom, your child will be positioned for success.”

Amy Kelly   Amy Kelly shares tips for helping children with special needs adapt to remote instruction on The Autism Dad podcast

Listen as Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, who is a mother of three children, including one with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities, shares tips for helping children with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences find new routines and successfully adapt to remote instruction on The Autism Dad podcast.

Rayni Brindley, M.Ed., BCBA   Autism Journey article features Rayni Brindley: “A letter to fellow parents of children with special needs”

Read this Autism Journey article featuring Devereux Senior Vice President of Organizational Development Rayni Brindley, M.Ed., BCBA, as she shares tips for fellow parents of children with special needs to stay safe, healthy - and calm - during COVID-19.

Devereux’s Amy Kelly   Article features Devereux’s Amy Kelly: “Four ways to help kids and adults with special needs adapt to wearing face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic”

Read this 30Seconds.com article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she offers tips to help individuals with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences adapt to wearing face masks in public.

Amy and Annie   Creative alternatives for continued learning for children with special needs

Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, offers creative alternatives for continued learning - at home - to help children with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences develop essential life skills.

Amy Kelly   Article features Devereux’s Amy Kelly: “Tips for working from home (and finding relief) with your children out of school”

For many parents and caregivers, working from home during COVID-19 (while your children are out of school or day care) can present unique challenges, especially if you are caring for a child with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences. Read this Autism Spectrum News article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly as she offers tips for adapting to these changes.

Amy Kelly   Podcast: Devereux’s Amy Kelly shares tips for helping families with special needs cope during a pandemic

For many families, maintaining a regular schedule during school closures and social distancing can be challenging, especially if you are caring for a child or adult with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences. Listen as Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, who is a mother of three teenage children (one with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities), shares tips to help parents and caregivers cope with a pandemic on WXPN’s Kathy Chats podcast.

Erin Clemens   Erin Clemens shares her journey with autism on the My Autism Tribe podcast

Listen as Erin Clemens, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome when she was 15 and receives services through Devereux Pennsylvania, shares her journey with autism on the My Autism Tribe podcast.

Rayni Brindley, M.Ed., BCBA   Devereux’s Rayni Brindley writes letter to fellow parents of children with special needs

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Senior Vice President of Organizational Development Rayni Brindley, M.Ed., BCBA, whose 7-year-old son has autism, recently wrote a letter to fellow parents of children with special needs, offering tips to stay safe, healthy - and calm - during COVID-19.

Devereux’s Amy Kelly   Article features Devereux’s Amy Kelly: “Four ways to help kids and adults with special needs adapt to wearing face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic”

Read this 30Seconds.com article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she offers tips to help individuals with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences adapt to wearing face masks in public.

Amy and Annie   Creative alternatives for continued learning for children with special needs

Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, offers creative alternatives for continued learning - at home - to help children with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences develop essential life skills.

Amy Kelly   Article features Devereux’s Amy Kelly: “Tips for working from home (and finding relief) with your children out of school”

For many parents and caregivers, working from home during COVID-19 (while your children are out of school or day care) can present unique challenges, especially if you are caring for a child with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences. Read this Autism Spectrum News article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly as she offers tips for adapting to these changes.

Amy Kelly   Podcast: Devereux’s Amy Kelly shares tips for helping families with special needs cope during a pandemic

For many families, maintaining a regular schedule during school closures and social distancing can be challenging, especially if you are caring for a child or adult with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences. Listen as Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, who is a mother of three teenage children (one with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities), shares tips to help parents and caregivers cope with a pandemic on WXPN’s Kathy Chats podcast.

Erin Clemens   Erin Clemens shares her journey with autism on the My Autism Tribe podcast

Listen as Erin Clemens, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome when she was 15 and receives services through Devereux Pennsylvania, shares her journey with autism on the My Autism Tribe podcast.

Autism Spectrum News   Article featuring Devereux’s Amy Kelly: “Assembling an emergency toolkit for children with disabilities”

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for families of children with disabilities to be prepared for any emergency. Read this Autism Spectrum News article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly as she shares her emergency toolkit essentials.

Amy Kelly   Amy Kelly shares tips for helping families with special needs during the COVID-19 crisis on the My Autism Tribe podcast

Take a listen as Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, shares tips for helping families and caregivers of children with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences cope with the COVID-19 public health crisis on the My Autism Tribe podcast.

Finding a voice   Finding a voice: Self-advocacy in action at Devereux New Jersey

One day per week, in one of 10 Devereux New Jersey vocational programs located across the Garden State, adults meet with staff to learn more about how to advocate for themselves.

Amy Kelly   Article featuring Amy Kelly: “COVID-19: Helping families with special needs during a public health crisis”

Read this Autism Journey article featuring Devereux National Director of Family Engagement Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, as she shares steps families and caregivers of individuals with special needs can take to cope during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Clemens Poetry   Erin Clemens’ journey with autism through poetry

Erin Clemens, who receives services through Devereux Pennsylvania, was recently inspired to write a poem about her journey with autism.

Mary Pangle   Devereux Florida foster parent retires after 50 years of helping more than 200 youth

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Florida foster parent Mary Pangle retired this summer after providing a loving and nurturing home to more than 200 children over 50 years.

Red Hook Graduation   The future is bright: Family celebrates son’s graduation from Devereux New York

Lena and Paul Martino credit Devereux New York with helping their son, Cristinel, grow and thrive. Cristinel recently graduated from Devereux New York’s Red Hook School.

Intensive Family Coaching   Devereux Pennsylvania’s intensive family coaching program helps family

Joaquin and Tina Angles credit Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Pennsylvania’s intensive family coaching program with helping them build a more positive, healthy relationship with their twin boys.

Gwen Skinner   Supported by Devereux, Erin Clemens celebrates graduation from Delaware County Community College

Erin Clemens, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome when she was 15 and receives services through Devereux Pennsylvania, graduated in May from Delaware County Community College.

Autism Day   Erin Clemens: A poem to her parents on World Autism Awareness Day

In honor of World Autism Awareness Day, Erin Clemens, who receives services through Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Pennsylvania, was inspired to write a poem to her parents.

Pennsylvania autism partnership   Local man achieving goals, thanks to Pennsylvania autism partnership

“Since I’ve been here at Devereux, I’ve been seeing what I can do, and what others like me can do.” Read about John Pagnoni and how Devereux Pennsylvania’s CAAPP program is helping make his dreams a reality in this inspiring article - featured in the Chester County Press.

  Autism through a different lens: A sibling’s perspective

“Annie’s influence spreads into every aspect of my life … she has given me the inspiration to make an impact in the world around me.” Read this inspiring and heartwarming article - featured in Autism Journey - from Devereux Director of Family and Community Services Amy Kelly, and her son, Danny.

  Giving back: Family brightens holiday season for youth at Devereux Pennsylvania CIDDS

The holidays are a time of giving, and for Mary and Mark Bainbridge - whose son, Robert, received services through Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health - they are a time of giving back.

  Devereux Pennsylvania’s CAAPP program helps make dreams a reality

Growing up, John Pagnoni had a passion for cooking. He and his grandmother would watch Food Network shows featuring celebrity chefs such as Emeril Lagasse, Bobby Flay and Guy Fieri to gather ideas and learn new skills.

  From receiving care to starting a career: Devereux’s CAAPP program provides hope

Ten years ago, Erin Clemens was struggling with day-to-day activities, relying heavily on family and friends to help guide her through life’s challenges. Going to college or finding employment seemed like unobtainable goals. Then, in 2008, her parents turned to Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

  Devereux youth shares moving graduation speech

Justinee Rafter told the Devereux admissions team she was not interested in her education. But thanks to a team of compassionate and caring clinicians, teachers and staff at the Devereux Pennsylvania - Children’s Behavioral Health Services center, three years later - something changed. This summer, Justinee graduated from the Devereux Day School in Malvern, Pa.

  FCC selects Devereux Florida foster parents as its ‘Foster Parents of the Year’

During the Florida Coalition for Children’s (FCC) annual convention in July, the organization selected Devereux foster parents Bobby Sharp and Everett Kamuchey as its “Foster Parents of the Year.”

  Devereux N.Y. holds first ‘Self-Advocate Gala’ for adults with disabilities

This summer, Devereux New York held its first “Self-Advocate Gala” for adults served by the nonprofit behavioral healthcare provider. The gala was coordinated by the organization’s “Adult Self-Advocacy Group.”

  Devereux video: Listening to Our Families

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health has released a new video, in which Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical/Medical Officer Dr. Yolanda Graham interviews parent Andrea McArthur about her experience with our organization.

  Tips for a Successful Family Outing with Your Child with Autism or Developmental Disabilities

Coordinating family activities can be a challenging task for any parent. But when one or more of your children have autism or a developmental disability, a simple walk to the park can become overwhelming, or could even prevent families from enjoying much-needed quality time together.

  Devereux foster parents honored by the Adoptive & Foster Parent Association of Georgia

The Adoptive & Foster Parent Association of Georgia recently named Devereux Georgia foster parents Stacey and Shatee Cooks as its “Foster Parents of the Year.”

  Family members of Devereux PA youth raise $8,000 for the organization

Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, Devereux is able to continue the vision of its founder - Helena Devereux - to help build a life of resilience, self-fulfillment and happiness for people of all abilities. Recently, Cindy and Matt Puscar raised $8,000 for Devereux Pennsylvania to create a sensory room for youth with special needs.

  When a child asks you to become her adoptive parents …

Although they never fully shared their thoughts about adoption with one another until the opportunity was posed by a 14-year-old child facing foster care, Jason and Jill considered expanding their family.

  Devereux program sees positive outcome for individuals at N.J. group home

At Devereux, our employees work tirelessly, every day, to help the individuals we serve lead productive, positive and socially-connected lives. Recently, Devereux New Jersey team members witnessed extremely rewarding outcomes as a result of implementing the “Devereux Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports” (D-PBIS) methodology in one of its groups homes.

  Adoption completes family just in time for holidays

Learn more about Devereux Arizona foster parents Sydni and Emery Engle - and their adoption journey - in this Arizona Daily Star article.

  Giving thanks: Celebrating Thanksgiving with your Child with Autism

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, and to give thanks for the many gifts we experience in our lives.

  New York Magazine article features Devereux AZ parents’ foster care journey

According to Sharicka McHenry’s life plan, she’d be married with children by the time she was 30. But by the time she and her wife, Donna, both found out they were medically unable to have biological children, Sharicka was 37. Click here to read this New York Magazine article about Devereux Arizona parents Sharicka and Donna McHenry - and their foster care journey.

  Former Devereux student shares her high school experience

“Devereux taught me that I am appreciated and that I do matter,” said Shante Chapman, a former Devereux Day School student. When Shante was younger, she was labeled a “brawler” who was prone to bouts of anger and fighting. After her freshman year in high school, she and her family made the decision to continue her high school education at the Devereux Day School in Pennsylvania.

  Tips for Navigating the Special Needs World with Your Child’s Doctor

In a two-part series about fostering strong relationships between physicians and children with special needs, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Director of Family and Community Services Amy Kelly shares her experiences - Tips for Navigating the Special Needs World with Your Child’s Doctor - with Philly.com’s Healthy Kids Blog.

  Adoption brings the gift of family to four siblings in foster care

Donna and Sharicka McHenry were satisfied with their lives in Phoenix, Ariz., but something was missing. “We always wanted children,” said Donna. “We wanted one of our own, but we also knew we would go through the foster care process because there are nearly 18,000 children living in the child welfare system in Arizona.” The couple are now parents to four siblings who previously were in foster care.