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Board Members of Gifted Children
Amanda Rodriguez, Founder & President
Amanda Rodriguez, the visionary behind the establishment and leadership of Gifted Children, Inc., has dedicated her efforts to creating a platform that
caters to the unique needs of individuals with diverse abilities. With a wealth
of experience spanning over 7 years, Amanda has consistently demonstrated
her unwavering commitment to providing invaluable resources and advocating for both children and women from all walks of life.
Amanda's profound passion lies in empowering children and fostering the
development of inclusive communities. Her unwavering dedication to this
cause has been the driving force behind her tireless efforts to ensure that
every child, regardless of their abilities, is given the opportunity to thrive.
Through her extensive experience and expertise, Amanda has become a
beacon of hope for countless individuals, offering them the support and
guidance they need to overcome challenges and reach their highest potential.
As a trailblazer in the field of advocacy and support services, Amanda
Rodriguez has established herself as a respected figure within the community. Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the mission of Gifted Children, Inc. have not only transformed the lives of countless individuals but have also paved the way for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Amanda's dedication to empowering children and building inclusive
communities serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the transformative power of compassion and support.
Rosie Otera-Walsh, Vice President
Rosie Otera-Walsh is a highly accomplished individual with an impressive array of roles and responsibilities. As the youth Coordinator at the Town of Wallkill Police Department, she plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and development of young individuals in the community. Her dedication to leadership is evident through her involvement with Leaders Always Leaders, where she actively promotes and cultivates leadership skills among the youth.
In addition to her work with the police department, Rosie is also the Minister of Grace and Embrace Ministry, where she provides spiritual guidance and support to those in need. Her compassionate nature and commitment to helping others extend further as she serves as the Director of Events at Hudson Valley Fiesta Latina, organizing vibrant and culturally enriching events for the community to enjoy.
Rosie's passion for communication and community engagement is evident through her role as a Radio Host of La Linea Informativa on Juan 95.7 FM. Through this platform, she keeps the community informed and connected, sharing valuable information and promoting important discussions. Her extensive experience as a Retired NYPD Detective Specialist and Retired Army Veteran - Staff Sergeant further exemplifies her dedication to service and protection.
Beyond her professional achievements, Rosie is a devoted family woman. She is a proud mother of 8 children and a loving grandmother to 12 grandchildren. Tragically, she has also experienced the loss of one son, which undoubtedly adds depth to her compassionate nature. Rosie's enduring marriage of 33 years to her husband Larry is a testament to her commitment and loyalty.
Overall, Rosie Otera-Walsh is a remarkable individual who has made significant contributions to various aspects of her community. Her diverse roles and experiences highlight her dedication to leadership, service, and family, making her an inspiring figure for others to emulate.
Wendy Javier, Secretary & Certified Life Coach
As the CEO of I Choose ME, an empowerment coaching practice, I am dedicated to activating mindfulness in individuals. Through my practice, I aim to empower individuals to prioritize their own well-being and personal growth. With a focus on mindfulness, I guide my students towards self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love. By incorporating mindfulness techniques into their daily lives, my students are able to cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and make conscious choices that align with their values and goals.
In addition to being a certified master practitioner, I am also trained in trauma-informed coaching. This means that I have a deep understanding of the impact of trauma on individuals and how it can affect their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. With this knowledge, I am able to create a safe and supportive environment for students at Gifted Children, Inc ensuring that their unique experiences and needs are acknowledged and respected.
Brett Anthony, Advisor & Advocate
Brett Anthony has been living with High Functioning Autism since he was just 3 years old. Despite facing challenges associated with his condition, he has emerged as a strong advocate for individuals with Autism. His dedication to this cause is evident through his active involvement in various initiatives aimed at raising awareness and providing support to those affected by Autism.
The Anthony Family Foundation for Autism Support, founded by Brett's parents, plays a crucial role in supporting individuals and families impacted by Autism. Through this foundation, Brett and his family have been able to make a significant impact in the lives of many, offering resources, guidance, and a sense of community to those in need. Brett's personal experiences have fueled his passion for advocating for individuals with Autism, driving him to create positive change in the way they are perceived and treated.
Brett's journey as an advocate for Autism stems from his deep empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with Autism. His unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by this condition is truly inspiring. Through his advocacy work and the foundation established by his family, Brett continues to be a beacon of hope and support for the Autism community, striving to create a more inclusive and accepting society for all.
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Anthony Salzano, Advisor & Advocate
Anthony Salzano, a highly capable individual on the autism spectrum, has dedicated himself to being a beacon of inspiration and a role model for others who share his diagnosis. As a fully certified peer specialist for Access Support for Living, he has embraced the opportunity to advocate for individuals with autism. His journey began at the tender age of 3 when he was diagnosed with high-functioning autism, a diagnosis that has profoundly influenced his life and fueled his passion for advocating on behalf of those on the spectrum.
Anthony's unwavering commitment to advocating for individuals with autism stems from his firm belief in the uniqueness of every individual. Unfortunately, society often marginalizes and excludes those with disabilities, viewing them as outsiders. Anthony strives to challenge this perspective by promoting a different way of interacting with individuals who have disabilities. He emphasizes the importance of understanding, including, and accepting them for who they truly are. By embracing diversity, not only do we enrich our own lives, but we also contribute to making the world a more vibrant and inclusive place.
Throughout his life, Anthony has encountered numerous challenges, particularly in the areas of communication and social skills, due to his autism. However, he considers himself fortunate to have received unwavering support from his teachers and to have had access to programs such as Orange Ulster BOCES. These invaluable resources have played a pivotal role in helping him overcome many obstacles. One of his most significant achievements was transitioning from a specialized program to a more inclusive classroom during his junior year of high school. This transition marked a turning point in his life, and he takes great pride in the fact that he ultimately graduated with an IEP diploma, a testament to his unwavering determination and hard work.
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