Why Families Trust Utah Parent Center
In this podcast episode of Bridging the Gap, hosted by Utah Behavior Services, we sat down with Joey Hanna, Executive Director, and Esperanza Reyes, Associate Director of the Utah Parent Center, during this year’s annual Top Golf fundraising event. This discussion highlighted the center’s impactful work, fundraising efforts, and all the work they do to shape the future of Utah’s families.
The conversation explored the Utah Parent Center’s flagship fundraising event, how it has evolved over the past eight years and the vital role it plays in expanding its ability to serve families of individuals with disabilities.
Joey and Esperanza discussed how the event’s funds directly support programs like:
- The innovative Sibling Project, which addresses the unique needs of siblings of individuals with disabilities.
- Community projects, like Autism Across.
- The Lifespan website and broader programming, which extend across education, daily living skills, and social support.
They also emphasized the importance of connecting families with resources and fostering advocacy, especially for siblings who may eventually become caregivers. Their passion for creating inclusive environments and supporting families shined throughout the whole episode.
We also heard inspiring anecdotes about the transformative impact the Utah Parent Center has on families. Joey and Esperanza shared personal stories about how the center has shaped their parenting journeys and careers, offering a glimpse into the empathetic and family-focused approach they bring to their work.
The episode wraps up with reflections on the center’s mission to provide support and education to families and individuals across the state. We encourage listeners to explore the center’s resources, whether they are navigating a current challenge or planning for the future. Joey and Esperanza also expressed gratitude to the community for supporting their ongoing efforts to strengthen families and create a legacy of advocacy.
For more information about the Utah Parent Center, visit utahparentcenter.org. To learn more about Utah Behavior Services and our work, follow us on social media @UtahBehaviorServices or visit utahbehaviorservices.com.
