Sarah Sheppard, M.Ed
As our Adult Programs Manager, Sarah works directly with clients, has oversight of day-to-day operations at the residential facility, implements of our program model, supervises counselors, and establishes and maintains community partnerships.
Sarah has years of nonprofits experience, having worked with multiple programs since graduating from James Madison University, all with missions relating to supporting individuals with autism and their families in various capacities. She notes “I’m passionate about putting in the work to strengthen services and supports for individuals with autism and their families. We have come a long way and have a long way to go!”
“CA’s ability to adapt to the needs of our community and cohesively work with partners in order to efficiently create programs in response to change is both impressive and unmatched”. This allows CA to reach and impact families and individuals at a greater scale. Sarah’s favorite part of her job is seeing our clients accomplish what they never thought they could do- to live a life like their neurotypical peers and to have a group of friends- to hear families express their gratitude for being a part of the CA family. She knows it’s “corny…but still true!”
When she’s not working, she loves all the outdoors activities: kayaking on the James, backpacking in the Blueridge, and biking on the cap trail. She loves seeing live music. Sarah is a native to the Richmond area having been born and raised here. She loves it so much that she can’t imagine living anywhere else. She enjoys everything it has to offer culturally; her favorite Richmond events are the Folk Festival and River Rock.
Certifications & Licensures
- Collaboration Problem Solving Practitioner
- Spanish Proficiency
Education
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Master of Education, Special Education and Disability Policy, Severe Disabilities
- James Madison University, Bachelor of Science, Psychology