Welcome to The Bailey Center Family

Center Manager

Jessica joined Families Embracing Autism Together (FEAT) in 2022 as the Program Coordinator and Marketing Assistant, and her passion and dedication quickly led her to her current role as the Center Manager for The Bailey Center for Special Needs - Going Beyond Boundaries. For Jessica, this role is more than just a job—it’s where her passion and purpose truly connect. She loves supporting our participants and families and finds great joy in being a part of their journeys. 

Her favorite part of the day is when she can step away from her desk and spend time interacting with families and participants, building relationships and seeing firsthand the positive impact the center has on their lives. 

Jessica lives in Dundas, Virginia, with her husband, Austin, and their son, Walker. When she’s not at the center, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. 

If you need assistance or have any questions, Jessica is always eager to help. You can reach her at jessica@ssvafeat.org or 434-584-9655.

Family Resource Navigator

We are excited to introduce Shemeka Johnson as the Family Resource Navigator at The Bailey Center for Special Needs! Shemeka is dedicated to supporting families who are new to the area, newly diagnosed, seeking a diagnosis, or in need of resources such as therapy, support services, and more in our community and surrounding areas.

Shemeka has over 13 years of experience in the Mental Health field and holds an Associate's Degree in Human Services from Southside Virginia Community College. She has worked as a Family Services Specialist with The Improvement Association and as a Service Facilitator for Moms in Motion, bringing a wealth of knowledge to her role at The Bailey Center. In addition to her work in human services, Shemeka is the owner of Shemeka J Photography, LLC, specializing in school portraits, event photography, milestone photography, and more.

Outside of work, Shemeka enjoys spending time with her husband and their two daughters. She is passionate about helping families navigate the resources available to them and ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.

If you're looking for assistance, Shemeka is here to help. Contact her at shemeka@ssvafeat.org or 434-281-3064.

Administrative Assistant

Brenda Clark is a dedicated caregiver, mother, and administrative professional with associate degrees in Human Services and Data Processing. Her connection to the special needs community began early through family and became a lifelong journey when her son, Dakota, was diagnosed with Autism in 1999. Today, Dakota is a joyful 28-year-old who attends a day support center they both love. 

Brenda serves as an Administrative Assistant at The Bailey Center for Special Needs, supporting Center Manager Jessica Lafoon in all aspects of office operations. She plays a key role in helping new and existing participants and their families navigate services and feel welcome. 

With a strong commitment to advocacy, inclusion, and support, Brenda brings both personal insight and professional skills to her work. When not working or helping with center events, she enjoys spending time with her son, Dakota, and her great-niece, Blaire—both at home and out in the community. 

Intern / Outreach Team Lead

 Meredith joined The Bailey Center Family as an intern in 2024. She is currently a student at Virginia Tech, where she is working toward her degree and is set to graduate in December 2025. Passionate about communication and advocacy, she plans to continue her education in the field of Speech-Language Pathology. Her time at the center has deepened her commitment to supporting individuals with special needs and their families through meaningful connection and communication. 

 Administrative Assistant /

 Social Media Manager

Haley is entering her senior year of high school and has been an enthusiastic part of The Bailey Center community since the fall of 2024. After beginning as a volunteer, she officially joined the team in the summer of 2025. Currently, she helps manage the center’s social media and supports various day-to-day activities, contributing wherever she’s needed.

Her time at The Bailey Center has deepened her passion for working with individuals with disabilities and has helped her build meaningful relationships that will support her future career. Following graduation, Haley plans to pursue a degree in Speech-Language Pathology, with the goal of later specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Haley is grateful to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community, and she remains committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Intern / Administrative Assistant

 Kylie is currently an intern and dedicated volunteer at the Bailey Center, where she is gaining hands-on experience while giving back to the community. Her time at the center has helped her develop valuable skills and deepen her passion for service and inclusion.

With a strong interest in working with individuals with special needs and different abilities, Kylie is committed to creating inclusive, supportive environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. She is focused on advocating for individuals, empowering families, and fostering understanding of the unique strengths and needs within this community.

Known for her love of basketball and the color purple—both key parts of her personality—Kylie brings energy, compassion, and a collaborative spirit to everything she does. She believes in the power of education, empathy, and teamwork to create meaningful, lasting change.