Village Learning & Achievement Center Celebrates 10 Years
Ten years ago, options in Northeast Houston were very limited once children with disabilities “aged-out” of the public education system. In response to this need, in September 2000, Kimberly Brusatori and Linda Schuiten, as well as several other parents of children with disabilities, founded Village Learning Center, Inc., as a 501(c) 3 non-profit corporation. A monetary commitment was made by both Kimberly and Linda, the organization was created, and the passion to provide quality programs and services to individuals with disabilities was born.
Kimberly and Linda met several years before, through their membership on the Humble ISD Special Education Parent Council, and had worked with other dedicated parents over the years to develop several community programs. However, their ultimate vision was to create a full-time program that would provide much needed support and structure, benefiting individuals with disabilities and their families. Initially with little more than the hope and determination of passionate parents, ten years later Village Learning & Achievement Center now serves as a model that people and organizations are looking to as an inspiration to replicate in their own communities.
What began with six clients in a 2,800-square-foot leased space in a local shopping center, has grown to 180 clients and an 8,000-square-foot facility. The Center features five classrooms used for the day habilitation and after-school programs, a sensory room, and much more. In addition, Village at Stoney Glen, provides independent living and out-of-home respite opportunities in a beautiful residential setting for adults with disabilities.
The word “Village” was chosen by Kimberly and Linda because they realized that the organization’s success depended upon the support of their community. They knew that it would take a “Village” to make their vision a reality. Village Learning & Achievement Center has grown tremendously since its inception in 2000, and the vision of the founders still is the driving force as plans for continued expansion are underway.
