November 2025 Newsletter
Belonging and Gratitude at PCDA
“It is in our nature to want to help, to serve, to be part of something larger than ourselves. We have a desire to connect with others. We want to make a difference in the world.” Terry Tempest Williams’ words capture what we see every day at PCDA. Our work is rooted in creating a community where children and families with developmental disabilities and other learning or communication differences can grow, connect, and thrive. As we move into this season of gratitude and connection, I’m reminded of how belonging, care, and shared purpose guide everything we do.
That sense of togetherness has been alive in so many moments this fall: at our Family Picnic, where families and staff enjoyed time together at Brookside Park, sharing laughter and conversation, and at our Professional Connection event, where we welcomed members of our broader professional community to strengthen relationships and share in the sense of connection that sustains our work. Our partnership with A Thousand Joys is also helping us nurture that same sense of community within our staff, building resilience for the meaningful work we do every day. As we move into the season of giving, I’m reminded that generosity takes many forms. Showing up, lending a hand, offering encouragement, or sharing resources so others can thrive all make a difference. However each of us contributes, it’s the collective care of our community that keeps PCDA strong and connected.
We hope you enjoy reading the articles below, which highlight our work, our community, and the ways we live our mission each day.
This November, PCDA invites our community to gather for a celebration of creativity, expression, and connection at Expressions of Fall: PCDA Creative Arts Recital on Saturday, November 15.
Hosted by PCDA’s Creative Arts Department, the recital and art showcase feature the work of children and young adults who participate in PCDA’s music and art programs. Each performance and piece of artwork reflects the individuality, growth, and joy of our clients as they explore their own voices through the creative process.
At PCDA, our Music Therapy and Creative Arts programs provide strengths-based, relationship-centered experiences that foster communication, self-expression, and social connection. Through music, movement, and art, participants develop important developmental and emotional skills in an environment that honors their unique perspectives and creativity.
“Expressions of Fall” is more than a recital—it’s a celebration of each person’s journey and the relationships that make growth possible. We are proud to share these moments with our PCDA families, friends, and community members.
All families are welcome to attend and experience the joy of creativity in full color!
📅 Saturday, November 15
📍 PCDA Green St Office - 790 E. Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101
🕔 Time: 4pm
On Friday, November 7, PCDA hosted Sip, Snack & Connect, a professional networking mixer at our Oak Knoll office. The evening brought together clinicians, educators, therapists, and community partners for an opportunity to connect, share ideas, and strengthen the network of care supporting children and young adults with developmental differences.
Guests enjoyed light refreshments, engaged in meaningful conversations, and toured our Oak Knoll space to see firsthand the programs and services that make PCDA unique. From Music Therapy to Social Skills Groups, our programs emphasize strengths-based, relationship-centered care that supports developmental growth, communication, and inclusion.
We are incredibly grateful for this community of care and collaboration. Events like Sip, Snack & Connect allow us to celebrate shared purpose, spark new partnerships, and build lasting connections. We look forward to welcoming our professional community again at future gatherings!
On Saturday, October 25, PCDA families came together at Brookside Park for our first Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) Family Picnic — a fun and heartwarming afternoon filled with laughter, games, and connection. Families enjoyed a relaxed day outdoors where children could play, parents could connect, and everyone could celebrate the sense of community that makes PCDA unique.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Board Member Andrea for her generous donation to reserve the park space, to our wonderful PAC members for organizing and leading the event, and to our incredible Teen Groups for helping set up and ensuring the day ran smoothly.
Events like this reflect the heart of PCDA’s mission — creating a community that builds on strengths and relationships. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us and made the day so special.
We’re already looking forward to our next PAC-hosted gathering and hope to see even more PCDA families come out to connect, play, and enjoy time together.
If you’d like to learn more about the Parent Advisory Committee or how to get involved, please contact Anne Davis at anne@pcdateam.org.
PAC Learning Series
Please join us for our Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) Learning Series, a set of expert-led sessions designed to help families navigate important topics in supporting neurodiverse children. These free, virtual sessions held over Zoom are open to all PCDA families and anyone interested in learning more! Each session will feature a specialist sharing practical guidance and answering your questions.
The Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) is a board-level group comprised of parents and caregivers of PCDA alumni and current clients. The PAC plays a vital role in providing input and feedback on program expansion, policies, plans, and activities. By sharing their experiences and perspectives, PAC members help shape the future of PCDA to better meet the needs of our community. This Learning Series is one way PAC brings its knowledge and perspective directly to families.
Upcoming sessions:
Nov 13, 12:00 PM: IEPs Demystified: Strategies for Families – Led by Andrea Valdez
📅 Zoom linkJan 8, 12:00 PM: Planning Ahead: Special Needs Trusts – Led by Joseph Lee
📅 Zoom link
We look forward to learning and growing together in community with you!
On Tuesday, December 2, the global day of generosity known as Giving Tuesday is a chance to celebrate the power of community and giving back. At PCDA, we invite you to join us in supporting children, teens, and young adults with developmental differences through programs that are strengths-based, relationship-centered, and tailored to each individual.
Your gift on Giving Tuesday helps fund:
Music, art, and therapy programs that encourage self-expression and communication
Social-emotional and developmental interventions that support growth and inclusion
Opportunities for families to access resources and guidance in navigating complex care options
Every donation, large or small, directly supports programs that build connection, confidence, and independence for the individuals we serve. By giving, you help create a community where all children and young adults can thrive, grow, and shine.
Mark your calendar for December 2, and make a lasting impact on the lives of the families PCDA serves. Together, we can turn generosity into opportunity and make this Giving Tuesday a celebration of connection and possibility.
💛 Donate on Giving Tuesday
Join us on Saturday, December 6 at 1:00 PM for PCDA’s annual Teen Art Show Fundraiser and Reception—a joyful celebration of creativity, community, and connection.
Our talented teen artists have been busy preparing original works that reflect their unique perspectives and passions. Each piece will be available for purchase, with all proceeds benefiting PCDA’s Teen Program and supporting next year’s Teen Art Show. By taking part, you’re not only investing in art—you’re investing in opportunity, confidence, and belonging for our teens.
Following the show, we invite you to stay for a reception honoring our artists, featuring mocktails, appetizers, and a chance to mingle with the young creators whose work inspires us all.
Come celebrate creativity that connects us—and helps our teens continue to grow, express, and thrive.
Click the virtual event to access the Zoom link.
For information about our events, please contact development@pcdateam.org.
Join Our Village
Donations
At PCDA, we know that building true community takes all of us—showing up with care, consistency, and commitment.
Every gift, no matter the size, is one way of saying I’m here, and I’m part of this work. From $10 to $10,000, your support helps us strengthen services, expand belonging, and stand beside neurodiverse children and families as we create a community where everyone feels included and empowered.
We can’t do this without you—thank you for showing up with us.
Gifts In Kind
Support our programs with a gift of supplies.
From art materials to sensory tools, the right items help our youth stay engaged and growing. Check out our Wish List to see what’s most needed right now.