As someone with Autism I’ve found the greatest problem the special needs community faces is that we’re treated as if we’re broken. That we’re a problem to be fixed. Sara doesn’t take this approach. I’m not broken to her. I’m a unique person with unique skills who needs help learning to use them. She sees me stumble through life and instead of just telling me what to do, she takes the time to understand the problems and find a solution, and holds me accountable to it. She takes time to provide advice that is relevant to me. Thanks to her I’m learning to be independent adult, and I cannot thank her enough for that.

Sara Swan has been working with my son for the past year. Her knowledge, compassion, and drive made a difference in the life of a child (and his parents). She has gone above and beyond the call of duty by attending school tours with me as a Parent Advocate, and she also acts as a Student Advocate for our son to ensure he is receiving the services and accommodations he needs and deserves. This past summer, Sara also tutored our son to prepare him for another year of middle school. Sara is an invaluable member to our family; she is an incredibly strong resource and well-versed in the education/special needs arena.

I have known Sara for going on nine years now. She has gone from being my mentor and someone I looked up to for guidance and encouragement, to being my best friend and someone I count on in life. Others-centered, goal-achieving, and fun-loving. These are all qualities that I love about Sara. She brings so much joy and inspiration to everyone she meets and anyone that gets the chance to learn from her along their journey will go far.

I met Sara when I was in a transition in my life and in need of support and guidance but not always to receiving it from my parents and teachers. Sara provided the support and guidance I was looking for from a established and caring adult without making me feel like a child. It was through knowing Sara that I not only grew as an independent and strong person but also in my roles as a daughter, friend and eventually wife and mother.

Sara’s advice and guidance helped me navigate through a period in my life when I didn’t have any direction. No matter how tough a situation was, I always knew that behind the advice was someone who cared deeply for me.