Cindy Young knew from an early age that she was called to work with children with special needs. Her passion to help others became a reality when she graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Master of Science degree in Education, achieved her Certificate of Clinical Competence, and became a Speech Language Pathologist.
In 1988, Cindy met her husband, Steven, and began working at Arkansas Easter Seals LR, where she obtained her NDT (Neuro-Developmental Treatment) certification. This allowed Cindy the opportunity to grasp a holistic treatment philosophy and lay the foundation for what later became a registered trademarked approach. Cindy and two co-workers founded The Access Group Inc. in 1994, located in Little Rock.
Over the 16 years as COO of Access, Cindy helped build an innovative school for ages birth - high school, an evaluation center, and a therapy clinic. She co-authored a book, Tools for Literacy and Communication, created a language-based curriculum for all ages, and trained parents, staff, and professionals at local, state, and national conferences. Cindy became certified in The DuBard Association Method which allowed her to expand her specialties to reading, writing, and comprehension.
Since becoming a CDT (certified dyslexic therapist), Cindy has spent the last 12 years dedicating herself to the cause of specific learning disabilities, which she herself has experienced personally. When COVID hit in 2020, Steven and Cindy saw the need to bring ACA to Hot Springs, passing the torch to Brandon and Nicki Sessions.
Since its beginning in Hot Springs, the academy has continued to grow in student enrollments, supporting staff, an active board of directors, and a guiding association board. Anchored619 in Allegiance became a 510(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2022. This nonprofit includes All Children's Academy and three other therapybased support programs; Anchored in Hope Respite, Anchored on the Range, and Beacon of Hope