OUR MISSION FOR THE FUTURE

When a child is diagnosed with cognitive, physical or emotional impairments, the parents of that special youngster quickly learn that their course in life is dramatically redirected. Exhaustive diagnostic evaluations by a host of medical specialists are followed by the call for intensive therapies to address the child’s developmental or learning disability. For most of these special children there simply are no magic cures that will quickly improve or ultimately remedy each child’s unique challenges. The reality is that in the case of speech, occupational and physical therapy for special needs children, more therapy is always better. In addition to these programs we also offer piano, yoga, individual tutoring and therapeutic horseback riding.

Unfortunately, parents’ finances are not as limitless as their love for their children. Because therapies are seldom, if ever, covered by insurance and typically average $160 per hour, the fiscal challenges of providing even a few, minimal hours of monthly therapy can be daunting.

Special Kids, Inc. offers affordable therapeutic options at one location at a dramatically reduced cost to families. Children will have an opportunity to have productive time in a variety of individual therapies with quality licensed therapists.

Special Kids, Inc. recognizes that these special needs children should receive treatment and be integrated into the community. Founded in the fall of 2002 by Jeanne Lizza, Special Kids, Inc. is a Michigan non-profit corporation and an IRS 501 (C) (3) organization. Special Kids, Inc. programs are funded primarily through the fundraising and donations of individuals, corporations, and community organizations. Participating families are asked to share in a minimal cost of $15 per hour for these various therapies and scholarships are available for families unable to do so. Contributions to Special Kids, Inc. are tax deductible.

Jeanne remains committed to expanding the programs and therapies available to special needs children in the Grosse Pointe community. Jeanne has received the Wayne County Parent Advisory Committee’s Special Certificate of Recognition, was nominated for Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network’s Caring for Children Award and the Grosse Pointe Rotary Service Above Self Award in 2006 and 2010.