Parent Hospital Association : blog : Sonoma Developmental Center

Autistic girl expresses her inner voice

This is the fascinating, and suprising to many, story of one autistic girl and what she was able to reveal about her own intelligence once she found a way to communicate. What she describes about the autistic person's reality is especially interesting.

Her situation does not mirror everyone's and is certainly different from the experiences of people who struggle with multiple disabilities, but it is interesting to see the role therapists, trained caregivers and dedicated engagement can play in helping someone develop and grow.

SDC Executive Director to retire

James E. Rogers, Executive Director of the Sonoma Developmental Center, has announced plans to retire.

Jim has been the director at SDC since November 2005. Prior to his position at the Center he held a position as Assistant Deputy Director, at the Department of Developmental Services, with the State of California.

In 2009 Jim received the Hero with Heart Award from PHA. He has also received a number of Sustained Superior Accomplishment awards. No word yet on when his retirement becomes effective.

Jason Kinzler's Story

In the debate over how Virginia should care for its disabled population, state lawmakers wrestle with whether or not to pour precious resources into community care....or continue to support institutions that many families have relied on for years.

This is the story of Jason Kinzler, a 36-year-old with Angelman Syndrome, and his family's experience with the Northern Virginia Training Center in Fairfax County, VA, as it was presented by CBS 6 WTVR.