For families and children who are struggling with the challenges of Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, Mental Health/Illness Disorders, Childhood Trauma, Substance Use Disorder and other Neurological Disorders; we provide navigation and support, that greatly improves the quality of life for all, Amazing Grace Advocacy is a place for families to find hope and success.
Our Staff and Board of Directors all have one thing in common; we are raising or working directly with children that have Brain Disorders. Each of us bring a unique skill set of experience and expertise to Amazing Grace Advocacy with a passion to bring hope and success to your family, along with the compassion and knowledge of how difficult and challenging daily life can be.
Working in Cabarrus County and the surrounding counties since 2015 has enabled us to develop a robust network of providers, community supports and school district relationships which gives us the ability to deliver action to improve your challenges and develop a sustainable plan for long term success for your child.
Is to have full wrap around services for all children and families that are affected by Brain Disorders that are easily accessible and affordable.
We are constantly evolving and training to achieve our vision. The Amazing Grace Advocacy Family welcomes all parents, children and community members to help us grow!
Mom to five children, three of which came through foster care/adoption and have Brain Disorders.
I founded Amazing Grace Advocacy with a vow to help other families navigate the complex systems that serve our children. My children have a dual diagnosis of mental health and intellectual disabilities; they were stuck in limbo between these two systems. In devoting a lot of time to fight for services, we were able to achieve what was needed for their care and success. I share my experiences and compassion in achieving peace and quality of life for other families raising complex children.
In Cabarrus County, I serve as Chairperson for: System of Care Collaborative, Innovative Approaches, and Mental Health Task Force/Advisory Board.
I serve on the Board of Directors for: Exceptional Children's Assistance Center (ECAC) and Families in Recovery.
At the State Level, I am a member of the Children and Youth Branch Family Partner at the Division of Public Health and Family Engagement Member in the State Systematic Improvement Plan with the Department of Public Instruction (DPI).
Nationally, I am active with the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs (AMCHP).
My greatest accomplishment is being "Mom".
In the Midst of Chaos, faith guided us to finding solutions
Every Life Has A Purpose and we are Rocking Ours!
Mother of four children, all of whom have their own special health needs, including autism, epilepsy, learning disabilities and a rare brain malformation named Periventricular Nodular Heterotopia, which often affects other body systems as well.
I began my education in Occupational Therapy (OT), but decided to transition into a degree in
Mother of four children, all of whom have their own special health needs, including autism, epilepsy, learning disabilities and a rare brain malformation named Periventricular Nodular Heterotopia, which often affects other body systems as well.
I began my education in Occupational Therapy (OT), but decided to transition into a degree in Healthcare Management with a focus in Long Term Care; So even before becoming a parent with lived experience, I was able to work in various settings and see the operational side of healthcare. I have worked with families affected by Traumatic Brain Injuries, providing in home respite and supporting their OT’s goals and Activities of Daily Living. I have been the Business Director of an assisted living home, providing management not only to the home, but also the home healthcare agency that we oversaw. In addition, I have worked for the corporate office of a local hospital system, providing support to struggling offices.
My passion lies in bridging the gap between families and professionals. I believe most of us have the very best intentions at heart, although coming from different backgrounds with varying emotions and experiences, it can be difficult to navigate at times. Furthermore, I am passionate about equity in healthcare settings. Having life experience as a single mother and a married mother, in a family blended not only by marriage but also by race and economic background, I believe that all families are deserving of access to meaningful healthcare and related services.
Over the last few years, I have been fortunate to collaborate with various health organizations on the international, national and statewide levels. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to help support families locally, right in our community where we live, work and play everyday!
Amazing Grace Advocacy is active in: Cabarrus County Mental Health Task Force/Advisory Board, Cabarrus Innovative Approaches Initiative and System of Care to advocate and be a voice for families and children.
Executive Director, Gwen Bartley is a Family Partner at the Division of Child &Family Well-Being (DPH) and a Family Partner at the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) for the EC Division.
DPH State Resource Website for Special Needs
DPI State Resource for Exceptional Children
Executive Director, Gwen Bartley is a Board Member for the ECAC. Amazing Grace Advocacy partners with the ECAC to bring additional resources and education to families and students.
Amazing Grace Advocacy partners with Families in Recovery Ministries to support families dealing with Substance Use Disorders.