For Mary Thompson, one of Laradon’s best assets is the belief that nothing is impossible, everyone has strengths and everyone can learn. It’s this principle that, she believes, has helped the organization reach this 70th milestone year.
“I think Laradon has always looked for new ways to be innovative in order to serve the community,” she says. “We came from meager beginnings, but realized early on that if there was problem, Laradon could solve it. We have always been growing and changing – adapting to our clients’ needs.”
That same concept is what drives Mary’s work as a therapist in the Family, Infant, and Toddler Program at Laradon.
For more than 30 years, Mary has worked with families of infants and toddlers who have been identified for potential developmental delays. She meets parents and caregivers in the home to give them the tools they need to encourage healthy development. She also provides opportunities to engage kids with typically developing children in the community through Play and Learn groups in the community.
Mary says that she loves her job because she gets to work with families and children alike… and she is always learning.
“I learn from the children, parents, grandparents, other caregivers, and professionals. They teach me as much as I teach them. I never get bored,” she said.
When Mary first started at Laradon, its founders Mr. and Mrs. Calabrese were still present and very much involved. Mary got to see their dedication and hard work in action. She is an integral part of the Laradon team and one who embodies its mission to provide superior, individualized services that maximize the full potential of each individual we serve.
Thank you, Mary, for your years of service to Laradon and the countless families you have supported!
