Spectrum Support Society (SSS) is a non-profit organization in the Texas Panhandle that focuses on advocating for and supporting families with children who have special needs. This organization focuses on advocating, educating, and including parents, caregivers, and children of families that love and care for children with special needs. SSS offers resources, education, and support groups to help plan, prepare, and find inclusion within their communities in the Texas Panhandle and beyond. It is a valuable organization for fostering connection and empowerment for these families.
THE FOUNDER
Callie Pullen is the founder of the Spectrum Support Society. She is joyfully married to Eric and they have two highly energetic children, Violet and Isaac. Isaac was given a non-categorical Autism diagnosis at the age of four through the local school system. When Eric and Callie received this diagnosis, they asked for resources not only from the school system, but also from the primary care doctor. None were available, so they set out on a journey to educate themselves. She bought all the books, watched all the online training videos, and talked to educators and doctors. She even wrote her son personalized Social Stories with pictures of his favorite Pixar Characters interacting with Isaac. Callie Pullen's story is inspiring, showing how personal challenges led her to create a community resource like Spectrum Support Society. Her dedication to her son Isaac and her proactive efforts to learn and create personalized tools for him to succeed, like the Social Stories with Pixar characters, highlight her commitment to supporting families in similar situations.
THE NEED
Callie recognized the need for a supportive community for parents of children with special needs, where they wouldn't feel isolated or alone in their experiences. She aims to create a space where parents can ask tough questions, receive help, and share emotional moments—both the struggles and the joys—of raising a child who may not fit the traditional mold. She wants parents and caregivers to know they don’t have to feel like they are the only people in town that have a kid that is wonderfully and perfectly made This reflects her commitment to fostering connection and understanding among families on a challenging but meaningful journey-a journey that is not for the faint of heart. Callie believes that parents are chosen specifically to care for their special child, but it takes a village to help in the day-to-day development.
THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT
The Spectrum Support Society is dedicated to empowering families and advocates of children with special needs by providing essential support programs and inclusive activities. Our mission focuses on assisting caregivers and families through monthly meetings that address key topics, share coping strategies, and plan inclusive seasonal activities. We aim to educate the community on the importance of building relationships with special needs children while highlighting the struggles caregivers face and fostering solutions collectively. Additionally, we aspire to offer scholarships to students with disabilities upon their high school graduation. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we rely on community support to expand our initiatives, enhance our programs, and increase our outreach efforts, ultimately creating a more inclusive environment for all.
CONCLUSION
The Spectrum Support Society is dedicated to creating a supportive community for families with children who have special needs. By holding monthly meetings, sharing coping strategies, and planning inclusive activities, they help caregivers and parents feel less alone. Their mission is not just about support but also about educating the community on the importance of building relationships with these amazing children. Together, they work towards understanding and solutions, making a positive impact for all families involved.