STAFF

 Each grouping will have one certified teacher or BCBA, in addition to other certified teachers, experienced paraprofessional aide, and/or special education students or high school volunteers. Many of the staff members were referred with extensive experience working at area centers for autism. Staff will be trained and dedicate time to prepare camp activities, set up positive behavior support systems, social stories for activities, visual schedules, and social skills activities.

Camp F.R.I.E.N.D. is made possible by the dedicated staff who facilitate our programming. We employ BCBAs, RBTs, special education teachers, and aides, in addition to certified teachers, experienced paraprofessionals, special education students, and high school volunteers. Many of our staff members also bring extensive experience working at area autism centers.

Mary Brown - Traditional Camp and satellite Camp director
With over a decade of experience across schools, clinics, and homes, Mary Brown is a seasoned expert in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Currently serving as the Clinical Director for Progressive ABA Therapy Group in Boardman, OH, Mary has spent 13 years refining her approach to autism services.

Mary’s mission goes beyond therapy; she is driven to improve the quality of life for families in the Mahoning Valley. She finds immense fulfillment in creating inclusive environments where children can thrive socially and emotionally. Mary has led camp FRIEND since 2019 and enjoys stepping outside the traditional clinical role to engage with children in a more dynamic, natural environment. To her, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a child use a hard-earned skill to win a game or bond with a peer. By bridging the gap between intensive therapy and summer fun, Mary ensures that every camper experiences the joy of friendship and every family feels the strength of a supportive community.

Jennifer Groce - Career Exploration week director
Jennifer is a licensed Intervention Specialist teaching at Potential Development since 2017. She received her Bachelor degree from Malone University. In October of 2023, she completed her Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorder from Grand Canyon University. In 2023, Jennifer joined the Autism Society as the Social Connections Facilitator. She has worked Camp FRIEND each summer since. Jennifer has also been an instrumental part in the development and implementation of our additional week of Camp FRIEND for teens and young adults transitioning into the work force. Previously, Jennifer has worked one-on-one with autistic clients as a Therapeutic Staff Support in the home, school, and community settings.