Nurturing Hope into Reality

How one family’s participation with The Arc of Fort Bend County has turned dreams into success.

By: Rebecca Deurlein

When Angela and Brandon Alexander sought out resources and support for their two Rosa Parks Elementary sons, they had no idea they were about to embark on a lifechanging journey with The Arc of Fort Bend County. But Noah and Dylan Alexander are now pursuing their bachelor’s degrees, and both sons and parents agree that The Arc has played a significant role in their success.

Early intervention in the elementary years came in the form of teacher Adrianne Williamson, who has a daughter with autism and a special needs son. “She told us we NEED to be members of The Arc!” says Angela. “So we met with Education Advocate Cheryl Sewell, who taught us the ins and outs of special education advocacy. With Cheryl’s help, we learned what questions to ask and what rights our children have.”

As the children grew, socialization with peers became more important. At the same time, Angela and Brandon needed a break – to enjoy some couple time, to regroup, and to reenergize. The Arc’s Teen/Tween Social Respite events satisfied everyone’s needs and provided an avenue for all four family members to find their own fun. Noah and Dylan met new friends, played games, and learned socialization skills. And mom and dad got the respite they were looking for.

In 2022, the young men moved up to the Twenty Somethings group, where they enjoy engaging in the community and strengthening friendships. They also continue to discover their strengths and become confident in who they are. At The Arc’s annual Christmas party last year, the previously hesitant young men hit the dance floor, with Dylan even receiving recognition for his dance moves.

Angela loves watching this transformation in her sons and notes that she and Brandon have also received some unexpected bonuses from the family’s participation with The Arc. “We’ve gotten to know other parents, and that has been a catalyst for so many things. You find this entire network of parents with special needs kids, and they introduce you to other opportunities you would never have known about otherwise.”

Today, Noah and Dylan have earned associates degrees from University of St. Thomas. The program is expensive, and being awarded the Kathy Moody Memorial Scholarship offered through The Arc has enabled the boys to continue their studies another two years.

Proud dad Brandon reflects on how far the boys have come since their elementary years. “When we first got into The Arc, we didn’t know what to expect or how to be advocates for our kids. You don’t know what you don’t know. As parents, you just expect your kids to follow the routine all kids follow. It’s a challenge when you realize they will need extra resources and might take an entirely different path.”

“When I think about this program,” Angela adds, “I think its greatest attribute is that it helped our sons build independence. Looking back at their senior year of high school, all we could think about was ‘What’s next?’ The scholarship was a vessel for them to continue their education, and now they can keep on this journey, find their own voice, and discover what they can do. Without this program, I don’t know if they’d be where they are today.”

Noah and Dylan are set to graduate in May 2026. Their next “What’s next?” is filled with promise.

Noah and Dylan Alexander, Recipients of the 2023 Kathy Moody Memorial Scholarship