“I was so appreciative of the programs SARRC had for my child when we first became involved and for future programs for all families impacted by autism,” says Stephanie Papadopoulos.
In 2003, Stephanie called SARRC to inquire about services for her daughter, Eleni, who had been diagnosed with autism. Subsequently, Stephanie and her husband Socrates decided to become involved by volunteering for the Annual Community Breakfast and the Autism Speaks Walk, serving as co-chair of both events in 2007. Years later, she joined SARRC’s Board of Directors and Legacy Circle.
“I was motivated to join the Legacy Circle so that I could make sure that individuals with autism have the support and services they need,” says Stephanie. “Eleni is almost an adult and I want her to live as independently as possible and have all the skills to function independently in the community.”
Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Stephanie graduated from the University of Arizona and later moved to Phoenix where she pursued a career with Bank of America Credit Card Group. In early 1999, Stephanie married her husband and joined him in Cairo, Egypt where he was serving as a diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service. Stephanie and her husband learned they were pregnant with triplets and moved back to Phoenix where their three children were born.
“My hope is that our gift will enable SARRC to continue to support the lifetime of those with autism,” says Stephanie. “Services are vital to all individuals with autism so they can feel empowered to a path of independent living.”
If you would like to learn more about becoming a Legacy Circle member and ensuring the continued vitality and growth of SARRC’s services from one generation to the next, please contact Beth Salazar at [email protected] or 602-340-8717, ext. 1039.
