A 64-year old black woman wearing glasses, a maroon t-shirt, and khaki pants stands smiling in front of a brick wall with The League's white and green logo painted on it.

“Autism is a Rainbow”

Mrs. Karen is a Direct Support Professional with a deep love and understanding for people on the autism spectrum. At 64 years young, she has two superpowers that help her make a difference every day: hugs and listening.

A black woman in a pastel tie-dye t-shirt assists a young black student wearing a black apron with a sugar scrub project.

Mrs. Karen loved making lemon sugar scrubs as an activity to pamper the young ladies in the afterschool program.

Since August of 2024, Mrs. Karen (a.k.a. “the Snack Lady”) has built relationships with the children in the Youth Autism Services afterschool program as well as with the adults in the Camping & Recreation respite programs. Because she has been a caretaker since the age of 19, Mrs. Karen knows the value in being in-tune with the people that she supports. Regardless of whether a child or camper is nonverbal or has behavioral challenges, Mrs. Karen pays close attention to their cues so that she can establish trust and connect with not only the children, but also their families over important aspects of their growth.

“Autism is a colorful rainbow that branches off in each direction. You have to want to be in this field, and want to do it from your heart.”

While Mrs. Karen has a professional background in medical records and direct care, she also has plenty of personal experience with fun! Every day after school, the staff and the students look forward to an exciting calendar of activities. The activities range from affirmations to yoga, to swimming in The Wellness Center‘s indoor heated pool, to planting in the outdoor garden, to making artwork, to preparing culinary dishes, to playing Musical Chairs, and so much more. They take field trips and integrate into the community as part of their skill development. Each child has a skillset to work on, and staff members of the Youth Autism Services team recognize that while the activities are recreational, they also provide important opportunities for social etiquette, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and dexterity.

“This is not a daycare; we provide a lot more than just fun. What the children lack elsewhere in their lives, they get here.”

A black man wearing a green-shirt and a black woman wearing a maroon t-shirt pose together.

Mrs. Karen and fellow direct support professional Mr. Andre work together in the afterschool program as well as during camp respite programs.

The Youth Autism Services team works collaboratively to ensure that each child reaches his or her goals. Through compassion, patience, and consistency, League employees like Mrs. Karen make positive transformations happen for the youth of Baltimore. One of the great joys of the program is when the students graduate from high school and take their next steps on the journey to independence, self-sufficiency, and happiness.

“I love what I do, and what I can teach and give to the children.”

 

A group of direct support professionals and students seated at tables coloring picture print-outs.    A black woman wearing a pastel t-shirt assisting a black male student wearing an apron with a craft project.   A black woman wearing a maroo t-shirt holding out a bottle of nail polish for a young black woman to decide on..