About Us


In 2005, Tina Rear and her husband Dave were told their 18 month old son, Kyle, had been diagnosed with PDDNOS, an autism spectrum disorder. Overwhelmed and unsure about what to do, they searched the internet for information. Much of what they found was neither useful nor comforting. Concerned about Kyle's future, Tina and Dave felt alone and became frustrated with the limited amount of support available to them. In their search for information, they began to realize that other families were also looking for answers.

Shortly after Kyle's diagnosis, Tina began meeting in her living room with other parents as a means of finding solutions to common concerns. During these meetings these parents found comfort and strength in one another and felt empowered by what they were learning through their circle of support. Over time, these small meetings grew into the Care to Share Support Network.

Today, Kyle's dreams and abilities surpass his diagnosis and he is doing more than Tina expected possible. Through the Care to Share Support Network, Tina has made a commitment to help families obtain resources, services and support for their children with special needs.

  • 2006: Tina Rear began hosting Care to Share Support meeting in the living room of her home with two other parents of children with special needs.
  • June of 2006 - Care to Share partnered with Hillsborough's Mayor, Anthony Ferrera and the Organization for Autism Research (OAR) to raise funds for autism research and create free quarterly parent workshops
  • April of 2007 - Tina Rear received a Proclamation from Hillsborough Township for providing support and services to the special needs community
  • January of 2008: Hosted their first "Kids Day Fundraiser" featuring Mr. Ray.
  • January of 2008: Care to Share became a New Jersey Non-Profit Corporation
  • 2008: Care to Share sponsored the first Respite Staff Training
  • April of 2008 - Tina Rear received a Proclamation from Hillsborough Township for providing support and services to the special needs community
  • August of 2008: Care to Share became a 501c(3) Non-Profit Organization

Vision

Our vision is to provide those caring for children with special needs, a consistent, supportive place to connect with one another. Care to Share becomes a place where people feel enlightened, empowered and energized to seize opportunities that will enhance the lives of children within their communities.

Mission

Our mission is to create a supportive environment where people feel enlightened, empowered and energized to seize opportunities that will enhance the lives of children with special needs. We strive to bring communities together and create possibilities for families and those who support them.

Our Core Beliefs

When you "Care to Share" you can have an impact on the lives of others.

  • We believe that children should not be judged by a diagnostic label but should be thought of first for their uniqueness, strengths and gifts.
  • We believe that a collaborative relationship among families, teachers, therapists and healthcare providers is the foundation for creating a supportive environment for children with special needs.
  • We believe that meaningful community relationships are established through awareness, understanding and acceptance of one another.
  • We believe that educators and therapists make a significant impact on the aspirations and overall development of children with special needs.

 

© 2008-2009 Care to Share Support Network Inc 
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