founder and president| Charnese Brown
Mission Statement
PTLC aims to help develop life skills such as functional communication, Independence, and social-emotional skills in the community of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and Developmental Challenges, especially in low socio-economic communities through combinative racquet sports instruction such as pickleball and tennis.
Acing Autism Awareness
Parents comprehend the challenges of locating community-based sports and activities suitable for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Consider tennis, for instance. Tennis, as an individual sport, offers young individuals avenues for physical and cognitive development.
Moreover, it fosters self-confidence through peer engagement and socialization, while enhancing language abilities. Navigating the sport independently aids in enhancing cognitive abilities while allowing each student to refine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Tailoring lessons to accommodate the unique needs of each student ensures inclusivity for all children with special needs.
Our Approach
Here at Piece Together Learning Center, we believe in a holistic approach that addresses not only a child's academic needs but also their social and emotional well-being. We work closely with families and other professionals to create a comprehensive plan that meets the unique needs of each child.
We will provide training and education to coaches, certified speech/occupational/physical/ABA therapists, and volunteers for an adaptive and inclusive recreational therapeutic specialization.
Ladawn Russel
Ladawn Russel is the proud mother of a beautiful girl named Paige who was diagnosed with Autism at the age 3. She embodies faith and strength, balancing her role as a dedicated caregiver for her two children with a commitment to supporting others. Her advocacy and compassion ,truly unmatched. We are incredibly grateful for her continuous support and for sponsoring a child. Thank you, Ladawn, for making a difference in so many lives!
About Charnese Brown
Tennis Beginners Start Date 9/6/24
Pickleball Beginners Start Date 9/6/24
Pickleball Beginners Start Date 9/6/24
North Miami | Saturday
Beginners Class
(ages 5-10) 9-10 am
(ages 10-18) 10-11 am
$99 every 6 weeks
Pickleball Beginners Start Date 9/6/24
Pickleball Beginners Start Date 9/6/24
Pickleball Beginners Start Date 9/6/24
North Miami | Saturday
Beginners Class
(ages 5-10) 9-10 am
(ages 10-18) 10-11 am
$99 every 6 weeks
Tennis Advanced Start Date 9/6/24
Pickleball Beginners Start Date 9/6/24
Pickleball Advanced Start Date 9/6/24
North Miami | Sunday
Advanced Class
(ages 5-10) 9-10 am
(ages 10-18) 10-11 am
$99 every 6 weeks
Pickleball Advanced Start Date 9/6/24
Pickleball Beginners Start Date 9/6/24
Pickleball Advanced Start Date 9/6/24
North Miami | Sunday
Advanced Class
(ages 5-10) 9-10 am
(ages 10-18) 10-11 am
$99 every 6 weeks
advisory committee
Carolyn Anderson | Exceptional Stuedent educator
Carolyn Anderson is an ESE educator, renowned for her exceptional dedication and rapport with children. Her remarkable contributions have led to her being honored with the esteemed title of "Teacher of the Year."
JENNIFER MAYOR |BCBA
Schena Singleton | Speech Pathologist
Schena Singleton | Speech Pathologist
Schena Singleton | Speech Pathologist
Schena Singleton, a certified Speech Language Pathologist from Baton Rouge, LA, holds a Bachelor's and Master's in Speech-Language Pathology from Southern University and A&M College. With experience in school-based and early-intervention pediatric settings, she specializes in improving communication skills across various age groups and settings.
Shuntill demps | Paraprofessional
Schena Singleton | Speech Pathologist
Schena Singleton | Speech Pathologist
Shuntill Demps has made a huge impact in the school system for nearly 20 years. She is experienced in educating and assisting children with varying disabilities and dedicates her time as a steward for the Broward Teachers Union. Known as the “Go To,” she is a trusted resource and advocate in her community.
Autism Prevalence
- In 2023, the CDC reported that approximately 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to 2018 data.
- 4 in 100 boys identified with autism
- 1 in 100 girls identified with autism
- Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls.
- Most children were still being diagnosed after age 4, though autism can be reliably diagnosed as early as age 2.
- 31% of children with ASD have an intellectual disability (intelligence quotient [IQ] <70), 25% are in the borderline range (IQ 71–85), and 44% have IQ scores in the average to above-average range (i.e., IQ >85).
- Autism affects all ethnic and socioeconomic groups.
- Minority groups tend to be diagnosed later and less often.
- Early intervention affords the best opportunity to support healthy development and deliver benefits across the lifespan.
- There is no medical detection for autism.
MEET THE BOARD
Rhonda Gittens
TREASURER
Charles Brown
BOARD MEMBER
Chanetra Thompson
SECRETARY