Jenifer was born and raised in East Texas, is a mother of 2 boys, age 8 and 5, her oldest of which has severe nonverbal autism. She has a masters degree in psychology and is committed to advocating for those with intellectual disabilities. Her life goal is to establish a safe and nurturing living environment for her son’s future and for the peace of mind of knowing her son will be well taken care of long after she is gone.
Rebecca Holland lives in East Texas with her husband of 29 years, Paul. She has a background in education, both in the regular and special education classrooms. In 2019, she became guardian to her brother, Jim, who has autism, intellectual disability, and blindness. Her desire is to be a voice for Jim, his community, and the families that care for a loved one with special needs.
Joey and Jody Maples have three children, Jackson, Sawyer, and Rose. Jackson is studying Construction Science at Texas A&M, Sawyer is a junior at Hallsville ISD, and Rose is seven. Joey is a manufacturing leader at Eastman Chemical, and Jody owns Gypsy Rose, a clothing boutique.
The Maples began fostering ten years ago, and through that experience, ended up adopting their daughter Rose. Rose has a diagnosis of IDD and autism, currently receives ABA therapy, and is thriving. The Maples have a heart for special needs children and helping other families get the support they need.
Kyle lives in Hallsville, Texas, with his wife, Jenifer, and their two boys, Noah and Parker. He has been a practicing CPA at his firm, McMinn, Pope, Woodfin & Shaw, for 10 years. Noah, their oldest, has autism. Kyle enjoys spending time with both of their boys, doing the things that they love, like soccer, baseball, swimming, and being outside. They enjoy attending their church, FBC Hallsville. Kyle strives to praise and serve God in everything he does.
Shelley Scraver has a background in emergency and health education nursing. When she became mom to her fourth child, she pivoted into the adoption and special needs advocacy world where God has allowed her to use her background in nursing in a whole new way. Although adopting a child with autism wasn’t in her life plan, she is grateful that God has used her son to show her family what really matters to our Lord.