In the Month of March we are showcasing this wonderful Community Hero , Candice Webb. Candice is warm, funny and passionate about supporting Autism Moms in her community and organizing Sensory Friendly Events. In this article we will go deeper to know her a little bit better and also dig deeper into her organization and her passion.
CATXA:What is the name of your group?
Candice: The name of our group is We Rock Autism.
CATXA: What is the vision of your group ?
Candice: The vision of the group is for our uniquely abled individuals to experience things in the community just as the neurological population does. Every outing is a learning experience for everyone. It is an opportunity to hopefully gain understanding and acceptance from the community as well.
CATXA:What inspired you to start your group?
Candice: My inspiration for starting We Rock Autism was my 22 yr old son, Trevyon. Honestly he is the Co-Founder. He changed my way of thinking when it comes to unique abilities. We put a positive spin on our situation. No matter what transpires at the end of the day, We Rock Autism, it doesn't Rock us...
CATXA: What are some obstacles or difficulties you have faced?
Candice:When he was diagnosed in 2003 we experienced many difficulties when we would go out on the community. Over the years things improved as autism awareness grew, however now that he is an adult often times people are not as understanding of our situation. This is the reality of many families and we pray that we will eventually gain acceptance from the world. Many uniquely abled individuals want to participate in different activities, but instead they are excluded. The uniquely abled community should NOT be forced to conform to the world. The world should accept them for who they are!
CATXA: What has been the most rewarding moment as a Community Leader?
Candice: What I find the most rewarding is simply seeing uniquely abled individuals participate in activities that they possibly would never have been exposed to or when they overcome obstacles. Seeing them exude joy and feeling a since of accomplishment is definitely a beautiful thing. It brings tears of joy for me!
CATXA: What would you like to achieve with your organization/work in the near future?
Candice: Currently we host about 3-4 events per year. I would like to be able to provide more community outings in the near future... (most of our events are paid out of pocket.)
CATXA: How do you balance work, home and
community work?
Candice: Balance, what is balance? Lol! In all seriousness God is the answer. I allow him to lead the way, but my little family will always come 1st, once their needs are met I pour into others...
CATXA: Who is someone you admire and why?
Candice: I admire so many beautiful, amazing parents of uniquely abled individuals, and many have organizations that enhance the lives of other uniquely abled individuals, but the real V.I.P.s are the uniquely abled individuals that take on the world on a daily basis. May of them suffer from overwhelming anxiety due to the fact that they don't understand the world around them, but they never stop Rocking!
CATXA:What will you say to other Special Needs Mom that feel overwhelmed?
Candice:All special need moms need to know they are not alone. Just finding someone that "gets it," will make a difference! So find a support group, it will change your life. You can vent, cry, laugh, and share information that may help you on your journey. Most importantly it should be a judgment free environment that allows you and your loved ones can be yourselves!
If you want to connect with Candice and her wonderful group check them out!
Facebook: We Rock Autism
If you haven't met Candice and Trey well I guess you don't go to many autism events in the Houston Texas area. No matter the autism related stress on any given day, Candice is going to deal with it and make sure Trey has a good time at whatever event they go to. Always giving to others and expects nothing in return. Nice to see her get recognition!