There is so much to be thankful for. I feel so blessed to be doing what I love. It has been a dream of mine to be able to work one on one with families. When I was just out of High School I started working at a group home for adults with developmental disabilities. I loved it, and from there my work has continued and expanded. I have had the opportunity to work in various settings including care centers, recreational settings, educational settings, orphanages, and homes. I started specializing in
working with children with autism in 2007, and it is definitely where my heart is. Each experience has been special, but I have to say I love working in the homes with families of children with autism.
It's a privilege to work with the people who are the most invested in a child's life...family. I am grateful for the families who have welcomed me into their lives. I am grateful for the experiences with these special children. I am grateful to see their progress and for updates from parents. Some of my most rewarding experiences have been running into families I have worked with in the past and seeing their children and watching how they interact with others and having them tell me stories. I love it!
I am grateful for incredible children, amazing families, and a job that I absolutely love. I am grateful for the people who have supported me in reaching for my dreams. I am grateful.
Joy Mano
Utah P.L.A.Y. Project Home Consultant
Early Childhood Autism Intervention