Family Support Testimonials

“Words cannot express the gratitude I feel for the unwavering support Bettina has shown my family throughout our foster and adoption journey. From the very beginning, she walked beside me offering an inclusive place to say the things that feel too hard to say out loud. Her kindness and compassion have been a constant source of strength as my family has navigated the complex world of mental and physical health needs with our children. She has been a shoulder to cry on, a sounding board in times of crisis, a cheerleader for every small milestone, and a guide when we weren't sure how to take the next step forward. Thanks to Bettina, this journey has been filled with more joy, resilience, self-compassion, and meaningful friendship than I could have imagined. I am forever grateful for the community she has created and for the integral part she has played in our family's story.”

- Alexis Tew, Foster & Adoptive Parent

“Bettina is one of the kindest, compassionate, and driven people I know. Her love for the families she serves is unparalleled and drives her to make amazing change in this world. She has touched the lives of countless families for the better. In a world that can be very isolating for families of children with disabilities, she is a warm and guiding light. As a parent with lived experience, she is much more than another service provider. She is simply there to walk alongside you through dark days and joyful days, as well. Bettina has touched the life of my family in all ways for the better. She helped us find the resources we needed, connected us with other families, and provided a welcome space of respite. She is an incredible resource and has become a friend to our family and many others.”

- Emily Boshkoff, Adoptive Parent

"I first met Bettina in the Spring of 2020 through a virtual parent support group for moms of kids with disabilities that she founded and moderated. From the very beginning, it was clear that when Bettina saw a need she took meaningful action to meet it.  Through her thoughtful leadership of the online group, she created a safe and supportive space where moms like me could share experiences, find encouragement, and feel less alone. The sense of community that grew under her guidance was transformative for the Charlottesville disability community. She approaches everything she does with an unstoppable combination of compassion and dedication. Despite managing her own extraordinary challenges as a parent, she gives generously of her time and energy to helping others.  What sets her apart is her ability to empathize with people in all circumstances, never begrudging those who may struggle with less complicated circumstances than her own.  Her capacity for kindness and understanding seems boundless, and her leadership of our group are testaments to her determination to make a difference.  Whether she is building up the Charlottesville disability community, advocating for families, or working behind the scenes to create change, she brings unmatched drive and heart to everything she does."

— Jennifer Beard, Parent to a neurodiverse child

“Bettina has been an anchor for my family during our toughest moments. When emotions run high, conversations are difficult, and the challenges feel endless, she helps us break things down into manageable steps. Her ability to listen deeply and then guide with both love and practicality is unmatched. Bettina brings together lived experience and professional insight, meeting us where we are. She makes us feel heard, valued, and supported, even when the road ahead feels overwhelming. Thanks to her, we feel less isolated and more hopeful, knowing we have someone in our corner to help us move forward.”

- Gemma Furman, Parent to a neurodiverse child