Jim and Molly have opened their hearts and home to numerous children. Four of their six kids have joined the family through adoption, including Braylon.

At 16 months old, Braylon didn’t make eye contact, pull up, crawl or speak. Jim and Molly knew he was not where he should be developmentally so they set out to find a place and people who could help their son thrive and grow. Fortunately, they didn’t have to look very hard or long. Braylon’s older sister Bella had attended The Childhood League Center, a United Way nonprofit partner that serves young children with and without special needs.

While Bella was in The Center’s preschool program, Jim and Molly saw how the teachers were in tune with each child, no matter their diagnosis or abilities. And they saw how Bella and other children received individualized care and blossomed in the Center’s environment. They wanted that same experience for Braylon, and they knew the Center was the right place for him.

After three years at the Center, Braylon surpassed any goals they may have set for him, said Molly. Today he runs, plays with other kids and is starting to write his name.

“He’s able to interact with a lot of different kids with different abilities,” explained Jim. “It’s caused him to take different roles and has helped him as a person. His personality came out.”

The Center’s staff also helped Jim and Molly find resources and connected them to a school that meets Braylon’s needs for kindergarten. And thanks to the Center, they’re excited about their son’s future.

“When I see him learning and growing, it makes me optimistic for the future,” said Jim. “United Way, when they support this, they’re supporting the whole community. The Childhood League Center helps people that may not have the means. It’s really filling a dramatic need in the community.”

 

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