In Their Own Words
Our participants share what SPARC means to them
"When I graduated from high school I felt like I aged out of life…until I found SPARC."
"Before SPARC, I just sat in my room and listened to shows."
"At SPARC, I find peace."
Participant Stories
Every person at SPARC has a unique journey. Here are some of their stories.
Finding Community and Purpose
For many adults with severe and multiple disabilities, the transition out of the K-12 education system marks the end of structured support and community connection. They lose access to the teachers, therapists, and peers who were part of their daily lives for years.
SPARC fills this gap by providing a welcoming community where adults can continue learning, growing, and building meaningful relationships. Our participants don't just attend a program—they become part of a family.
"SPARC gave my son a reason to get up in the morning," shares one parent. "He looks forward to seeing his friends and participating in activities. It's changed our whole family's quality of life."
Art Therapy: A Path to Expression
For participants who face communication challenges, art therapy provides a powerful means of self-expression. Under the guidance of our certified Art Therapist, participants create works that reflect their inner worlds and help them process emotions.
The AIM AHEAD partnership with George Washington University takes this even further, using artificial intelligence to help participants create art and music in new ways. This groundbreaking research is opening doors for creative expression that weren't possible before.
"I never knew I could make something beautiful," shares one participant. "Art makes me feel proud."
Building Friendships That Last
Social isolation is one of the greatest challenges facing adults with disabilities after they leave school. Many spend their days at home with limited interaction beyond family members and caregivers.
At SPARC, participants form genuine friendships with peers who understand their experiences. They celebrate birthdays together, cheer each other on at Special Olympics events, and support one another through difficult times.
"My daughter has friends for the first time since high school," one mother explains. "Real friends who call her, who want to spend time with her. That's priceless."
What Families Say
"SPARC is filling a hole in our safety net. I view it as a kind of pilot for the state."
Virginia State Senator
Life at SPARC
Moments of joy, creativity, and connection from our community
Community Integration Through Field Trips
SPARC's field trips provide structured, community-integrated day services that directly advance the Commonwealth's obligations under the Permanent Injunction. Participants engage in regular, staff-supported outings to public and civic spaces that promote meaningful engagement, social connection, and skill development in real-world settings. These experiences are fully accessible and designed for individuals who require 1:1 support, are non-speaking, or have complex needs—ensuring services are integrated, not segregated, and consistent with the ADA's integration mandate.
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