As a dedicated nurse at Sycamore Services, Natalie Bowling brings both professional expertise and heartfelt compassion to her work supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since 2019, she has focused on ensuring that each person receives the highest quality of care with an “Individual first” mindset. A Day in the Life Natalie plays a vital role in making sure Individuals are served by staff with the training and skills they need to provide the best possible support. She oversees medication management and medical advocacy, always keeping the Individual’s needs, preferences, and autonomy at the center of care. Her work helps ensure that every person she serves is empowered to make informed decisions about their health. What She Loves Most For Natalie, the best part of her work is building relationships with Individuals and their families. She finds it rewarding to be a trusted resource, especially when her medical background can provide guidance in navigating complex healthcare situations. These relationships fuel her commitment and make her work deeply meaningful. Facing Challenges with Resilience Staffing for nurses remains a constant challenge in the field, but Natalie believes the rewards far outweigh the obstacles. Seeing Individuals thrive because of the support and advocacy she provides reaffirms her passion for this work. Beyond the Job Natalie’s talents extend well beyond nursing. Known as a “jack of all trades,” she is also a licensed cosmetologist, has culinary training, and even enjoys working on vehicles. At 32, she and her husband, Tyler, are raising their 7-year-old daughter, Makayla, along with their two lively dogs, Wednesday and Xena. She laughs that children are easier to manage than pets, but she embraces the joy and energy her busy household brings. A proud Seattle Seahawks fan, Natalie enjoys staying active and making memories with her family. A Final Thought When asked what she hopes people understand about her work, Natalie shared: “There is a lot of love and compassion that goes into my work, and sometimes it is not the quickest turnaround. But I ensure that I do not stop working or advocating until there is clarification or a solution.” Natalie’s dedication and skill exemplify the heart of Sycamore Services, and we are proud to spotlight her as part of our team. About Sycamore Services Sycamore Services is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live more independent, fulfilling lives. Through a wide range of services—including residential support, employment programs, day services, ABA therapy, transportation, and more—Sycamore empowers individuals and strengthens communities across Indiana.

Sycamore Services will host an Open House on Tuesday, October 7, from 5:30–7:30 p.m.  at the Sycamore Services Annex, 934 Sycamore Lane, Danville, IN 46122  (located across the street from our headquarters). The event will feature open interviews for Direct Support Professional (DSP) positions , along with representation from several department and service area leaders who will be available to answer questions. Attendees will also hear an agency-wide update from CEO Yolanda Kincaid at 6:00 p.m. Community members are invited to stop by, bring their questions, or simply say hello and learn more about the programs and services Sycamore offers.

Sycamore Services has unveiled a newly constructed residence on Kristi Road (photo below) in Martinsville, designed from the ground up to meet the highest standards of accessibility, comfort, and independence. The thoughtfully planned four-bedroom, two-bath home reflects both innovation and a deep commitment to creating inclusive living spaces. A Thoughtfully Designed Living Environment Every aspect of the home was built with accessibility in mind. The open-concept layout features a warm central gathering space, abundant natural light to support well-being, and durable materials selected for long-term comfort. Each bedroom includes its own heating and air conditioning unit, allowing residents to tailor their environment to their individual needs. Accessibility at Every Detail From widened doorways and lowered appliances to strategically placed handrails and ramped entry, the home ensures ease of mobility and safety throughout. The kitchen includes a large pantry, induction cooktop to reduce burn risk, and a lowered oven and microwave for convenience. A subtle-grain laminate floor provides slip resistance, while a floor drain in the kitchen and dual bathroom drains add an extra layer of protection. Enhancing Comfort and Well-Being The home is designed to create a sensory-friendly environment, with soft white lighting and larger windows that fill each space with natural light. Bathrooms feature tiled surfaces to prevent water damage, as well as dual-height showerheads for flexibility. Outside, a large cement patio and an extended driveway support accessibility and outdoor enjoyment. Built in Partnership This project was made possible through a successful collaboration with Ingert Custom Builders , whose craftsmanship and attention to detail helped bring the vision to life. The result is more than just a new house—it is a home that reflects resilience, innovation, and community investment in inclusive living. We are proud to bring this fully accessible home to the Martinsville community and are excited about the opportunities it creates for greater independence and quality of life. This project represents not only a home but also a model for what is possible as we continue to expand residential services. We look forward to building more homes like this one in the future. If you or a loved one are seeking residential services, we invite you to contact us to learn more about how Sycamore Services can support your needs.

This Saturday, as we celebrate Grandparents Day, we pause to recognize the powerful role grandparents and extended family members play in the lives of children, families, and people with disabilities. Their support is not simply “helping out” — it is a foundation of love, stability, and wisdom that strengthens families and communities. A Legacy of Love and Support Grandparents often bring more than an extra set of hands. They bring perspective, traditions, and reassurance. For many families navigating the world of disability services, grandparents provide encouragement, advocate in schools or healthcare settings, or simply create a safe space where a child feels completely accepted. Their presence helps siblings feel included and parents feel less alone. What the Research Shows Recent research confirms what many families already know: grandparents are more than just cheerleaders — they are emotional anchors, advocates, and contributors to stability. A 2022 scoping review published in Disability and Rehabilitation  examined over 30 studies on grandparents of children with disabilities. It found that grandparents frequently provide emotional support, help navigate school or healthcare systems, and deepen family bonds through their presence. While many grandparents describe their role as rewarding, the review also noted that they are not always included by professionals or given the resources they need to fully support their families. The study’s conclusion was clear: when communities and systems recognize grandparents as true partners, the entire family — including the child with a disability — benefits. Strength in Community Beyond the research, countless stories show how grandparents make a difference every day. They may offer childcare, transportation to appointments, or financial help, but their most valuable gift is often emotional: listening, cheering on milestones, and celebrating every achievement. These gestures remind families that they are not facing challenges in isolation — they are surrounded by love. Dignity and Partnership It is important to emphasize that support does not define people with disabilities as dependent or burdensome. Instead, it highlights what every person deserves: relationships built on dignity, mutual respect, and opportunity. Family support creates an environment where people with disabilities can pursue independence, joy, and meaningful connection — with their loved ones walking alongside them. Looking Ahead On this Grandparents Day, let’s celebrate not only the wisdom of grandparents but also the many ways extended families strengthen communities. From the everyday moments of encouragement to the big milestones of advocacy and progress, families remind us that love is a collective effort. To every grandparent, aunt, uncle, or extended family member supporting children and people with disabilities: thank you. Your steady presence helps nurture confidence, resilience, and belonging. Today, we honor you — and the beautiful reminder that dignity and love grow strongest when shared across generations. References Novak-Pavlic, M., Abdel Malek, S., Rosenbaum, P., Macedo, L. G., & Di Rezze, B. (2022). A scoping review of the literature on grandparents of children with disabilities. Disability and Rehabilitation, 44 (18), 5035–5044. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2021.1877628

Governor Mike Braun has officially proclaimed September 7–13, 2025, as Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Week in Indiana . This special recognition shines a spotlight on the more than 18,000 DSPs across the state  who dedicate their time, skills, and compassion to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. At Sycamore Services , we know that DSPs are the heart of our mission. Every day, they help the people we support build independence, achieve goals, and create meaningful connections within their communities. Whether assisting with daily living skills, providing transportation, or encouraging personal growth, DSPs make a lasting impact on the lives they touch. This week, we also celebrate the broader team of professionals who stand alongside DSPs—united in our commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities and strengthening communities. As we honor DSP Week 2025 , we invite everyone to join us in saying thank you  to the dedicated professionals who make a difference each and every day. You can read Governor Braun's Proclamation below: #DSPWeek #ThankYouDSPs #INARF #IndianaStrong #Teamwork #Gratitude #GovernorBraun #DisabilitySupport

Sycamore Services is proud to celebrate Jennifer Robinson-Springfield, Director of Residential Services , who recently graduated from the Ember Leadership Academy , a program of Leadership Hendricks County . The Ember Leadership Academy is designed to ignite the potential of emerging leaders, helping participants strengthen their skills in self-awareness, strategic thinking, and community engagement. Through a mix of workshops, interactive sessions, and peer collaboration, participants explore what it means to lead with vision and purpose. For Jennifer, the experience was both eye-opening and transformative. “The emotional intelligence piece was really eye-opening, and I learned a lot about how my emotions affect my leadership,”  she reflected. She also shared that one of her key takeaways was the importance of slowing down and taking a broader view: “I learned the importance of stepping back and seeing the big picture and thinking strategically.” Throughout the program, Jennifer made valuable connections with fellow leaders across Hendricks County. She credits the academy for pushing her outside of her comfort zone in meaningful ways: “It took me out of my comfort zone, and I’m so grateful for that.” Jennifer’s graduation from the Ember Leadership Academy is not just a personal achievement—it’s also a benefit to the entire Sycamore Services community. By strengthening her leadership skills and broadening her perspective, she is better equipped to continue supporting our mission of helping individuals live more independent and fulfilling lives. 👏 Congratulations, Jennifer, on this exciting milestone!

Christa Lake MA, BCBA, is Director of ABA Clinical Services at Sycamore Services Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has long been recognized as one of the most evidence-based and effective approaches for supporting individuals with autism and related developmental needs. At Sycamore Services , we honor these proven foundations while taking ABA into the future—what we call today’s ABA . Our approach builds upon structured interventions but places equal importance on compassion, cooperation, and respect for each child’s individuality. Families who turn to the ABA Opportunity Center  can expect therapy that not only addresses challenging behaviors but also celebrates neurodiversity and focuses on meaningful growth. Moving Beyond Behavior Elimination One of the common criticisms of traditional ABA therapy is the historical focus on eliminating atypical behaviors, sometimes without providing appropriate replacement skills or considering emotional and sensory needs. For example, self-stimulatory actions such as hand-flapping or rocking (“stimming”) have often been targeted for reduction, with the goal of making children appear “indistinguishable from peers.” At Sycamore Services, we take a different approach. We do not believe in “taking away the autism.” Instead, our mission is to equip children with tools and skills that foster independence, safety, participation, and joy.  Each child has unique strengths, and our therapists work to build on those strengths rather than suppress them. Safety First: Reducing Dangerous Behaviors with Purpose ABA therapy will always need to address dangerous or disruptive behaviors such as aggression or self-injury. These behaviors threaten a child’s safety and limit opportunities for social participation. A skilled practitioner focuses on understanding the function  of these behaviors—why they occur—and then teaches positive, appropriate replacement skills. At Sycamore Services, this means helping children learn strategies that reduce frustration and increase communication, all while keeping therapy respectful and responsive to their needs. Play-Based, Strengths-Focused Therapy We believe therapy should be enjoyable, motivating, and practical. That’s why our ABA programs incorporate the child’s own interests, creating opportunities to learn through play and natural activities. Teaching within real-life contexts helps children generalize skills beyond the therapy room—at home, school, and in the community. By targeting socially significant goals such as communication, self-help, and social interaction, we empower children to access more opportunities and make meaningful choices in their daily lives. A Human-Centered Approach to ABA Most importantly, our therapists acknowledge the emotions and humanity of every learner . We strive to create a positive experience for both children and families, where learning feels rewarding and progress builds confidence. Our goal is not only to reduce challenges but also to improve overall quality of life. When children feel safe, supported, and encouraged, they are more likely to thrive. Why Families Choose the ABA Opportunity Center Families in [Your Service Area/Region] turn to the ABA Opportunity Center at Sycamore Services because: We deliver evidence-based ABA therapy  while embracing neurodiversity. We prioritize safety, compassion, and cooperation  over rigid compliance. We help children build real-world skills  that increase independence and joy. We support families as active partners in their child’s progress. ABA therapy is not about changing who a child is. It’s about giving them the tools to succeed in their own way, with dignity and respect.

At Sycamore Services , families often meet their very first guide through the intake process: Misty Porter , our dedicated Intake Coordinator. With more than 13 years of experience  at Sycamore, Misty has worn many hats—including DSP, Residential Administrator and Scheduler, Training Coordinator—and today thrives in her favorite role yet. Passion for Families and Individualized Service Plans Misty has always had a deep passion for working with the families we serve . As Intake Coordinator, she helps families navigate disability services  and designs service plans that meet the unique needs of each individual. Her approach goes beyond Sycamore’s programs alone; she focuses on building complete plans that connect individuals to the broader community  and create the best opportunities for independence and growth. A Knowledgeable and Trusted Resource Misty spends much of her week studying industry standards and legislation , ensuring families get the most informed support possible. She has an in-depth knowledge of the CARF manual  and the 460 IAC legislation , which sets the rules for services in Indiana. This dedication allows her to guide families with confidence and ensure every plan meets quality and compliance standards. Community Connections Matter What Misty loves most about her job is interacting with families and the community . She is often the friendly face you’ll see at open houses, community events, or meeting with families in their homes . She also enjoys telling people about Sycamore’s mission and how our services help people with disabilities live more independent lives. When asked what she wants people to know about this field, Misty shared: “There are people with every level of ability and support need. It’s essential that we keep each of them in mind when we think about services and inclusion.” Rooted in Hendricks County Misty has lived in Hendricks County her entire life  and raised her three children here. Outside of work, she’s passionate about decorating for the holidays—her house features five Christmas trees  each year! If you see Misty at a community event, be sure to say hello. Her dedication, warmth, and expertise continue to make her a vital part of the Sycamore Services team  and an incredible resource for families navigating the world of disability services.

Student transition from ABA Services to school Planning for the future is an important task for any parent regarding their child. For children diagnosed with autism that are receiving ABA therapy services at Sycamore Services ABA Opportunity Center , this plan can often be challenging, confusing, and sometimes scary. At Sycamore Services ABA Opportunity Center, our BCBAs and your child’s clinical team will be there to support you and assist with planning for your child’s future. We believe that the discussion about discharge from ABA services should start from day one, as the goal is to help your child acquire the skills needed to be successful in a less-restrictive setting. For many of our clients, this transition from ABA services will be into an educational setting such as a public or private school. While all children and schools are different, when it comes to the transition from a clinical setting to an educational setting, there are several factors that will help to maximize success. Have a transition plan.  Work with your child’s BCBA to identify an appropriate setting and get familiar with the school district you are in. The BCBA should develop individualized discharge goals and a transition plan. This plan may be adapted once discussions begin with the school depending on the needs of the child and/or staff. Proactive communication is key.  You and your child’s BCBA should begin discussions with the school ideally 9–12 months in advance. This ensures plenty of time for observations, evaluations to be scheduled, development of support plans, and an appropriate placement to be determined. Teamwork and collaboration are essential.  Remember to advocate for your child’s needs and be open to ideas and suggestions from the clinical and educational professionals. Everyone should work together to ensure the best interest and success of the child. Be patient and flexible.  While your child’s clinical team and educators will do their best to ensure a smooth transition, things don’t always go as planned. Timelines and schedules may sometimes shift, be moved forward, or delayed depending on the success of the child. You can learn more about our ABA Opporetunity Center and how we can help your family HERE !

Shannon Corcoran Shannon Corcoran, who has received services from Sycamore for more than 17 years, has achieved a milestone that is inspiring to many in the community. Earlier this year, she became the first person with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD) to serve on the board of the Eagles Lodge Women’s Auxiliary in Plainfield, Local 5685 AUX 3207. Shannon’s membership isn’t just a title-it’s a role filled with purpose and community spirit. As part of the Auxiliary, she will volunteer at events, serve meals, and host bingo nights, contributing her energy and talents to the lodge’s mission of service. Her official induction took place in April during a special ceremony, where she was welcomed warmly by fellow members and presented with her membership card and official lodge keys. This moment marked not only a personal achievement for Shannon but also a meaningful step toward greater inclusion and representation for people with IDD in community leadership roles. At Sycamore, we believe that every person has the potential to lead, contribute, and inspire and nothing brings us more joy than watching those possibilities come to life. Shannon’s accomplishment is a powerful reminder of what can happen when opportunities meet determination, and when communities open their doors to every kind of talent. Her journey reflects the heart of our mission: to support growth, celebrate achievements, and empower people to live life to the fullest. We’re proud to stand beside Shannon as she continues to break barriers and show what’s possible.

Dr. Yagnaram Ravichandran-Cupp, MD, CPE, MBA As a board-certified pediatrician and advocate for children’s health and well-being, I often meet families who are navigating the uncertainty that comes with an autism diagnosis. Their most pressing question is nearly always the same:  “What kind of therapy will help my child thrive?” After years of practice and staying grounded in the latest clinical evidence, my answer is unwavering—Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. When done well, it has the power to change lives. And right here in Hendricks County, families are fortunate to have access to one of the most compassionate, high-quality ABA therapy providers I’ve seen: Sycamore Services. After visiting their ABA Opportunity Center in Danville last year and speaking with their director, I realized what a true gem this clinic is for our community. I was struck not only by the professionalism and expertise of their team, but by the genuine care they show to every family who walks through their doors. What Is ABA Therapy—and Why Do I Recommend It? ABA therapy is widely recognized as the most evidence-based treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related developmental delays. It focuses on improving communication, social interaction, self-help skills, and behavior management through consistent, individualized support. The  American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)  endorses ABA as a gold-standard intervention, especially when started early and maintained consistently (Hyman et al., 2020). Research has shown that children who receive high-quality ABA therapy make measurable gains in language, academics, and adaptive functioning (Lovaas, 1987; Reichow et al., 2014). But what makes a program effective isn’t just science but how that science is delivered. And that’s where Sycamore Services shines. Why I Recommend Sycamore Services Sycamore’s ABA Opportunity Center in Danville is more than a clinic—it’s a family-centered, child-first environment where individualized care is the norm. Supervised by Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), their programs are data-driven and rooted in compassion. They offer: Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI)  – Especially impactful for children under 5, when the brain is most flexible and responsive to learning. School Readiness and Social Skills Development  – Helping children prepare for classroom settings and build healthy peer relationships. Ongoing Family Collaboration  – Ensuring that parents are part of the decision-making process every step of the way. What impressed me most during my visit was how intentionally each child’s treatment plan was crafted-not from a template, but from a deep understanding of their needs, preferences, and goals. Whether you’re located in Avon, Brownsburg, Plainfield, Danville, or anywhere in the Indianapolis area, Sycamore Services offers accessible, high-quality ABA therapy close to home. This matters. Proximity allows families to engage consistently in their child’s care—without the added strain of long commutes or waiting lists in urban centers. Science and Compassion in Harmony Consider the research: Lovaas (1987)  found that nearly half of children receiving intensive ABA therapy achieved typical intellectual and educational functioning. Reichow et al. (2014)  demonstrated ABA’s significant impact on IQ, adaptive behavior, and communication. Hyman et al. (2020)  affirmed ABA’s place as a key therapeutic strategy for children with ASD in AAP’s latest guidelines. These outcomes are powerful but they’re only realized when  the science is matched with heart . That’s what I saw at Sycamore Services. From their bright, welcoming therapy spaces to their highly trained staff, everything is designed to support the whole child and their family. Final Thoughts Autism is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis, and therapy shouldn’t be either. At Sycamore Services, I saw what it looks like when clinical excellence and community connection come together. If your child has recently been diagnosed with autism—or if you’re seeking a more personalized, effective ABA program—I encourage you to look into Sycamore Services’ ABA Opportunity Center in Danville. Their commitment to evidence-based care, individualized programming, and family partnership makes them a trusted provider I confidently recommend.   Dr. Ravichandran- Cupp, MD, CPE, MBA is a board certified pediatrician and pediatric emergency medicine physician with over 10 years of experience in the field in varied institutions and clinical settings. He has a specific interest in healthcare policy and public health outcomes. Having worked in a multitude of underserved areas, he has a broad perspective of healthcare outcomes related to the socioeconomic factors influencing delivery and access to healthcare.

The Awesome Westside Advocates ( AWA ) is more than just a group — it’s a community built on friendship, advocacy, and action. Since its founding in 2008, AWA has empowered individuals with disabilities to raise their voices, get involved, and make a difference. As a proud member group of Self Advocates of Indiana (SAI), AWA follows the ARC network guidelines and keeps its mission rooted in inclusion, respect, and opportunity for all. Membership in AWA is free and open to anyone with a disability who wants to participate. The group meets at least once a month for a wide range of activities — from social gatherings and educational sessions to service projects and community involvement. For those who can’t attend in person, virtual meetings make it easy to stay connected. A Voice for Advocacy and Inclusion As part of its mission, AWA takes an active role in civic life. Members participate in events with the Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities, engage in voter registration efforts, and visit with legislators to promote policies that protect the rights and dignity of people with disabilities. Whether delivering handmade Valentines to lawmakers or hosting an information booth, AWA members are dedicated to being heard and seen. Fun, Friendship, and Leadership But advocacy is only one part of the AWA experience. Members plan and enjoy picnics, parties, and parades — including riding on their float in the Quaker Day parade. The group also participates in statewide conferences, community events, and hosts joint activities with other organizations. They send birthday cards, take photos, and document memories in scrapbooks that celebrate their time together. AWA also helps members grow as leaders. Individuals can run for officer positions, help plan events, lead meetings, and vote on the group’s direction. These experiences foster confidence, creativity, and real-world skills that go far beyond group activities. Want to Get Involved? If you or someone you know is interested in joining AWA , we’d love to connect! For more information, contact one of the Co-Advisors: Karen Rose 📧 krose1050@gmail.com 📞 317-443-2898 Julie Kyle-Lee 📧 jklee@sycamoreservices.com 📞 317-402-5321 Come discover the power of advocacy, the joy of friendship, and the difference you can make with the Awesome Westside Advocates!