COLLECTIVE ABA
Explore our high-quality, center-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for individuals with autism, ages 3 to 21.
The Power of Community
A mother’s search for care led to a lifelong commitment to helping others—discover Indra Prendergast’s inspiring path with The Kennedy Collective.
Indra Prendergast works at The Kennedy Collective as a Residential Support Worker in the organization’s In-Home Support Department. Indra’s inspirational journey with The Kennedy Collective began nearly two decades ago when her son was diagnosed with autism. After the diagnosis, Indra began searching for the best early intervention services to support his development. That search led her to The Kennedy Collective Birth to Three program.
Indra enrolled her son in the program and worked tirelessly with The Kennedy Collective’s speech and occupational therapists to help him achieve critical developmental milestones. From teaching him to toss a ball and navigate stairs to developing his fine motor skills, their efforts made an indelible impact. For Indra, the experience was transformative, and the care she and her son received left a lasting impact on her heart.
Nine years later, Indra’s daughter was also diagnosed with autism. This time, Indra didn’t need to search for help—she knew exactly where to turn. She reached out to The Kennedy Collective again, and they stepped in to provide support. Indra’s daughter, who was not quite two years old at the time, began receiving speech and occupational therapy at home. The therapists didn’t just work with her daughter; they guided Indra through the process of transitioning her daughter into a school environment that would support her needs.
For Indra, this work is more than a job—it’s a calling. The joy of seeing her clients flourish in their own spaces, supported and happy, is immeasurable.
By the time her daughter was nearly three years old, The Kennedy Collective had coordinated her transition to a preschool program that embraced children with autism. They even worked directly with the school team, providing notes and guidance to ensure her daughter’s continued success. It was this level of collaboration and commitment that made all the difference. Today, Indra’s daughter is thriving in the fifth grade, and Indra credits much of her progress to the early intervention and unwavering support from The Kennedy Collective.
In October 2019, Indra joined The Kennedy Collective’s In-Home Support (IHS) department. Since then, she has devoted herself to helping individuals achieve and maintain independence at home. Her role involves assisting clients with cooking, cleaning, working, pursuing continuing education, and engaging with their communities, all while preserving their comfort and autonomy.
For Indra, this work is more than a job—it’s a calling. The joy of seeing her clients flourish in their own spaces, supported and happy, is immeasurable. She reflects on how The Kennedy Collective fulfills the vision of its founder, Evelyn Kennedy, by providing support to individuals with disabilities, no matter where they live, so they never feel alone.
The Kennedy Collective has come full circle in Indra’s life. From a young mother seeking help for her children to a professional delivering that same compassionate care to others, Indra’s journey is a testament to the power of community, dedication, and support. Through it all, she remains deeply grateful for The Kennedy Collective’s impact on her family—and now, on countless others.
