A Step Ahead in Pierce County (ASAPC) Founder, Candy Watkins, first opened its doors in 2001. ASAPC’s name was chosen to describe not only the progress of children who enroll in our program but also the forward-thinking culture of this nonprofit organization.
In 2000, birth to three services in our community was usually provided in specialized classes for toddlers with developmental delays. Although they certainly had a role in helping to develop social skills in young children, many parents were losing out on the significant benefits of a home visiting program.
Candy opened A Step Ahead with the commitment to broaden the services delivered to children in their homes and childcare and to continue to offer progressive and proven options. ASAPC was the first
organization to offer speech therapy in homes and was proud to help support the development of Language Preschools.
ASAPC is also recognized for its collaborative approach. A Step Ahead has been a leader in supporting local community partners with a more comprehensive understanding of what it takes to provide for children of all abilities.
Today, you’ll also find one of the most experienced, energetic, and talented staff in the region. While some faces have changed and we continue to innovate and grow our skills, one thing remains constant: our belief that together, we support families and help shape the future of the children we serve.
Our pledge is to unlock the full potential in every child we see.
Leadership
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Administrative Staff
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Family Resources Coordinators
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Teachers
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Infant Mental Health
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Speech Therapy
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Physical Therapy
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Occupational Therapy
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Board of Directors
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VISION
Our vision is a community that embraces and integrates children of all abilities and treasures the unique gifts each child possesses.
MISSION
Supporting families of infants and toddlers with special needs by enhancing their development and relationships both at home and in their community.
PRINCIPLES AND VALUES
We will do our work in a way that treats the well-being of children as our highest priority.
We will provide family-centered services in a manner that promotes trust, respect, and confidence with the families we serve.
Our behaviors will be of the highest ethical standards. We will always conduct ourselves with compassion, sensitivity and honesty.
We will demonstrate integrity through the operation of a transparent organization in the form of board oversight and fiscal responsibility.
We will be both creative and collaborative in our approach to building a vital community.
Diversity Statement
A Step Ahead is resolutely committed to fostering inclusivity and equity within our community. We stand with black, indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, as well as other marginalized identities, acknowledging the pain caused by ongoing racism and systemic injustice. Our collaboration with families, staff, and communities is dedicated to dismantling these inequities. We provide safe spaces for voices to be heard, actively learn, and honor diverse communities. Together, we drive change by championing inclusion, understanding, and justice.
Our board
Scott Leingang
President
TwinStar Credit Union
Ashley Wetherbee
Community Member
Construction Parts PWN
Annissa Wallace
Community Member
Health Point
Jennie Kanning
Community Member
Bree Swope
Community Member
ANNUAL REPORTS
