My name is Shimera Dennis, and I am the Founder and Executive Director of D&D Journey – Children With Disabilities Matter, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established on May 4, 2022.

I am a Behavioral Specialist and Autism Life Coach, but above all, I am a mother of children with autism and special needs. My personal journey as a parent navigating diagnoses, therapies, IEPs, medical appointments, and limited resources is what inspired me to create D&D Journey. I know firsthand how overwhelming and isolating this journey can feel—and I made it my mission to ensure that other families never have to walk it alone.

Through my professional background and lived experience, I am deeply committed to helping families feel supported, educated, and empowered. I work closely with parents to help them advocate for their children, understand their rights, access services, and build confidence in navigating complex systems of care.

Under my leadership, D&D Journey – Children With Disabilities Matter provides programs such as IEP navigation and support, autism, ADHD and special needs training, parent-to-parent support through our Circle of Strength group, art and enrichment programs, monthly resources, and inclusive community events. We have proudly served families through autism-friendly dances, educational workshops, holiday events, back-to-school initiatives, and community collaborations.

Everything I do—both personally and professionally—is rooted in compassion, advocacy, and community. I am passionate about creating safe spaces where families feel seen, heard, and supported, and where children with disabilities are celebrated for who they are.

I look forward to continuing to build meaningful partnerships and expanding our reach to better serve families in our community.