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Our Mission

SPARC (Special Programs & Resource Connection) enhances the lives of people with developmental disabilities through high quality therapeutic recreation activities. Participants work on skill development in a nurturing social community that does not otherwise exist in their lives.

Our Goals

As a committed provider of therapeutic recreational activities in Westchester County, NY, SPARC is dedicated to our mission of enhancing the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our goal is to go above and beyond in serving the Westchester County IDD community spanning adolescences through adulthood.  We offer an extensive array of recreational, artistic, athletic, and wellness programs designed by highly trained staff skilled in disciplines ranging from social work to speech therapy. We are committed to providing a place our population can go to learn, gain confidence and independence, and that their caregivers can trust.

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SPARC's programs thrive through dynamic partnerships with local schools, recreational venues, arts organizations, community centers, and residences. Together, we create an enriching array of programs  for participants and their families, igniting a sense of joy and fulfillment.

Led by our dedicated program specialists, our activities are meticulously crafted to conquer barriers while fostering the development of essential life skills. Through our programs, participants embrace:

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  • A resolute shift towards a more positive attitude

  • Amplified confidence and an elevated sense of self-worth

  • Enhanced socialization, communication, and the ability to build meaningful connections

  • A profound sense of accomplishment and newfound independence

  • The cultivation of community integration skills through enriched self-expression

  • Heightened levels of decision-making and adept problem-solving in social scenarios

  • An open-mindedness that eagerly embraces novel experiences

Our Team

SPARC boasts a dedicated team of experienced professionals in therapeutic recreation, music and art therapy, special education, social work, and more. Our team of highly trained practitioners includes neuro diverse individuals who are models for our population. With a deep understanding of participants' unique needs, such as autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, communication disorders, and medical concerns, our knowledgeable SPARC Program Specialists inspire individuals to aim high. We foster a spirit of encouragement, friendship, and fun, creating a nurturing environment where participants can thrive and reach for the stars.

 

At SPARC, our team's consistent commitment to excellence ensures that participants receive the utmost care and support. We tailor our interactions to address individual needs, embracing the transformative power of friendship and therapeutic recreation. With us, participants discover their true potential, develop life skills, and embark on a journey of growth, all within a supportive and vibrant community.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

For 30+ years, SPARC, Inc. has left a mark on the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), transcending barriers of ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic status, and religion.

We wholeheartedly embrace and celebrate the differences among those we serve, our community, and our esteemed staff. Our commitment is reflected in our accessible programs, services, and supports, catering to individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. We firmly believe that every person, without exception, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

 

SPARC stands as a beacon of diversity, inclusion, and equity, fostering a workplace where all employees and volunteers, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation/identity, education, or disability, are valued and esteemed. We hold steadfastly to a nondiscriminatory approach, providing equal opportunities for employment and advancement across all our programs and worksites. Embracing a tapestry of unique perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds, we ensure that every voice is heard and amplified.

 

Discrimination, biases, harassment, and bullying are not tolerate at  SPARC. We celebrate the vibrant tapestry of our community, where the richness of diversity underscores our shared purpose.

Board of Directors

Roger Campos · President

Dr. Sanford Proner, DPM · Vice President

Juan Diaz · Treasurer

Donna Santoro · Secretary

John DiRago · Member

Mike Primiani · Member

Jessica Erbacher · Member

If you're excited to be a leader, come check out SPARC's career page! You can join our team and make a big impact on the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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