The community can join in and walk, stroll or wheel one mile to support individuals living with disabilities. All funds raised will help the organization continue to provide vital services, including supporting the children enrolled at the Easterseals Child Development Center in State College.

Easterseals Child Development Center, located at 383 Rolling Ridge Drive, provides inclusive childcare and preschool services for children of all abilities. This year’s walk ambassadors highlight Easterseals Child Development Center staff, Willow Bierly, a 19-year-old classroom assistant and former student, and Brandy Prebble, a teacher, who has spent several years helping children of all abilities reach their full potential.

Willow and Brandy currently work together at Easterseals Child Development Center, but their paths to get there have been very different. They first met when Willow was just 4-years-old as a student in Brandy’s classroom. Diagnosed with autism at age three, Willow became an Easterseals client, receiving speech and occupational therapy, as well as classroom instruction. Once Easterseals Child Development Center became part of her daily routine, she truly flourished.

“We will never forget how those early years shaped her life. Without the services Easterseals provided, I’m not sure Willow would be who she is today,” said Courtney Bierly, Willow’s mother. “It’s thanks to teachers like Brandy who provided a foundation for her to grow, thrive and learn.”

PHOTO PROVIDED This year’s walk ambassadors highlight Easterseals Child Development Center staff, Willow Bierly, left, a 19-year-old classroom assistant and former student, and Brandy Prebble, right, a teacher, who has spent several years helping children of all abilities reach their full potential. Here, Willow and Brandy are pictured in 2011 when Willow was a student.

In addition to Easterseals helping to build the foundation for Willow’s success in school, it’s now helping lay the foundation for her career.

“It’s truly amazing that she’s been able to return to where it all started for her and support children who are experiencing some of the same challenges she once did. It’s a full circle moment and such a great story,” said Courtney.

Willow added, “I love my job. It’s a lot of fun interacting with the kids. I’m happy to go to work every day and see the kid’s smiles when I walk in the door.”

Brandy’s journey with Easterseals Child Development Center began 20 years ago when her son, Gareth, enrolled in the program. Gareth, who had cerebral palsy and significant medical needs, thrived in Easterseals’ supportive and inclusive preschool environment. Her son, Collin, who is typically developing, also benefited from the program’s strong social and academic foundation. Following the loss of Gareth, Brandy’s connection to Easterseals became deeply personal.

“Giving back to the community that once supported my family brings me immense joy,” Prebble

said.

To register or donate to the Walk with Me Centre County event, visit https://secure.qgiv.com/event/6awwmcc/ or reach out to Colleen at 412-281-7244 Ext. 1263.

For more information about Easterseals Child Development Center, contact the director, Carrie Johnson, at 814-238-4434.

Easterseals Western and Central Pennsylvania was established in 1935 and aims to be a leader to pave the way for 100% equity, inclusion and access for people with disabilities, their families and communities