Karen Hahne and Brenda Winegar never anticipated founding what would evolve into one of the nation’s premier multimillion-dollar nonprofits and a movement of compassion and inclusion for young children with special needs. Their paths converged when both mothers—who had unexpectedly become mothers to two beautiful children with Down syndrome—crossed paths when searching for more comprehensive educational resources for their kids. This was the mid-1980s; the Americans with Disabilities Act was not yet passed, and inclusive school programs were practically nonexistent.  So when both women found no resources for their children Reed and Becca, they decided to create their own and share their discoveries with other parents of special needs kids in their small Utah town.

In 1984, they began meeting with other parents of children with disabilities to combine resources, education, and more. The women believed in the power of parents as the best educators for their children and that if parents could get involved with their children’s education and therapy, the sky could be the limit. Despite initial skepticism and resistance from professionals, their grassroots volunteer group flourished, providing solace and community to parents navigating a discouraging medical landscape that often told them “not to expect too much” from their children. The group met in living rooms, office buildings, church gyms—anywhere that would let them meet. As their children grew and acquired new skills, parents learned and shared techniques and skills with one another.

A turning point came when Karen and Brenda were awarded their first state grant. The women formalized their efforts into a nonprofit organization and changed the name to Kids on the Move, reflecting the potential in every child. Over the years, opportunity after opportunity presented itself to serve vulnerable children and the special needs community, and these two fierce, formidable women continued to find a way to say “yes.” With that came expansions that have resulted in our Autism Center, Preschool and Childcare, Early Head Start program, Respite Care, Early Intervention, and many partnerships with members of the community who share our belief that inclusion is for everyone!

While Karen and Brenda retired in the early 2000s, they undoubtedly laid the path we are walking today. Their passion for vulnerable children, commitment to parental power, and dedication to bridging gaps in care are the cornerstones we have been building upon for four decades. We are forever grateful for their legacy of compassion, fortitude, and hope.