Judy Porreca, Receptionist
I have been the receptionist and librarian at Parent to Parent since February. I live in Shelburne with my husband Bill and our son Mark, who has Down Syndrome. We have two other sons; Christopher (married to Anne) and Rob, who graduates this year from the University of Missouri. In March the 2001 Special Olympics World Winter Games were held in Anchorage, Alaska. My husband and I were fortunate enough to attend these games. There were seven athletes from VT who competed in the games and our son Mark was one of two alpine skiers selected. Mark was so proud to have been chosen to compete, and even more thrilled to win two silver medals at the games. Special Olympics has been a big part of Mark's life for over 17 years, winning medals, competing in sports and making new friends. Our trip was the most thrilling experience, watching athletes from all over the world competing, and hugging and praising each other even if that other athlete had just won the race. We shared our experience with three other VT families who attended the games in support of their athletes. We now have eight new friends. We had such an awesome time; we saw the Pointer Sisters, Arnold Schwarzenegger and his wife, Maria. The biggest thrill was to shake hands with Eunice Shriver and express our thanks to her for starting Special Olympics. No, the BIGGEST THRILL was seeing our son standing on the award podium, kissing the silver medal he had just won! That is what it was all about!

Colleen Pidgeon, Family Support Coordinator
I joined the Family Support Team in March. I originally became a member of the Parent to Parent family 5 1/2 years ago when my son was diagnosed with a chronic illness. It continues to be a learning experience parenting three children with unique needs and personalities. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from families as well as to offer support through my own knowledge and experience. Welcome, Colleen!

Debbie Light, Network Coordinator
I became aware of Parent to Parent through the Food Allergy Support Team (FAST). Through FAST, a network of parents whose children have life-threatening food allergies, we learned how other parents safely managed food allergies and how to work with the school to advocate for our child. The information, support and reassurance we received were invaluable. My younger son had a speech delay at age two and began receiving services through Family, Infant & Toddler Project. After a year of services, he was speaking quite well. In addition to community work, I have seen what children with special needs deal with when I substitute taught. I am excited to work for an organization that supports families. My husband Bret and I, and our sons now 4 and 8, live in Hinesburg. Welcome, Debbie!

Denise Cordoba, Director of Finance
I joined the Parent to Parent staff in October 2000 and am excited to work at Parent to Parent. I chose this job over other opportunities because I want to support the work being done on behalf of families and children. It is a wonderful feeling to be able to use my skills to serve the community in this way. Welcome and thank you, Denise!©