A Chance to Grow began with a little girl and a dream

Bob DeBoer, a pioneer in special education and charter schools, recently passed away, prompting reflections on his legacy. DeBoer's personal experiences as a child with polio and as a parent of a child with disabilities influenced the start of a nonprofit.

In 1982, an article highlighted DeBoer's efforts to help his daughter Jesse, who had a brain injury. The lack of educational resources for children with brain injuries led the DeBoer family to research and implement a program by physical therapist Art Sandler, resulting in significant progress for Jesse.

The program laid the foundation for the nonprofit "A Chance to Grow," founded by the DeBoers in 1983, which continues its mission to support children in reaching their highest potential.

A Chance to Grow began with a little girl and a dream | Access Press