Vanessa Bieker, Founder
Board President
flybravefoundation@gmail.com
As an autism mom, I know the ins and outs of this journey. It took years to tap into John's talents and find what he was passionate about. This process didn't happen overnight but once we found it, he came alive. We all want purpose; for ourselves, children, friends and family. Together, we are building a sustainable employment program for adults with developmental disabilities. This mission is led with heart.
Vanessa Magaña
Sports and Fitness Programs
flyfitfb@gmail.com
Vanessa Magaña and her family are residents of Elk Grove. Her family values fitness and enjoys sports and outdoor activities. Vanessa found our Fly Brave Family through Fly Fit while she was searching for a program that best suited her daughter Mila’s unique needs as an individual living with Autism.
Kristy Lundy-Seltzer, MA Psychology
Improv/Theater Programs
seltzerkt@gmail.com
As an autism mom, I am constantly thinking about my daughter's future and the future of others on the autism spectrum. Employment for individuals on the autism spectrum shouldn't be few and far between, it should be the norm! By working together with our communities, we can provide the support and foundation these amazing and talented individuals deserve.
Dr. John Zulli, Ph.D.
Board Advisor &
Public Speaking Programs
jz@johnzulli.com
In the next decade, half a million young adults with autism will age out of school. What will they do? Currently, nearly 80% are unemployed. That alone should wake the masses. These young people have much to offer and as a community, we need to rise up for them. Fly Brave is a driving force in making change happen and I am honored to be apart of it.
Detective Al Franco
Police Programs,
Bookkeeping Oversight
onealfie@gmail.com
Al Franco resides in the Sacramento area with his family. He is a police detective for a local law enforcement agency with over 20 years of law enforcement experience.
Al has a passion for being involved with youth programs such as the police explorers and Devil Pups, Youth Program for America. Within the last year, he immersed himself with the Fly Brave organization and was instrumental with getting the Fly Fit program started with the Elk Grove Police Department.
Realizing 1 in 50 people are on the autism spectrum, Al believes in the values Fly Brave supports as it brings autism awareness to the community and gives support to those individuals on the autism spectrum.
Dr. Lauren Libero, Ph.D.
Vice President
Autism Specialist
Dept of Developmental Services
laurenlibero@gmail.com
I am a neuroscientist who studies brain development and autism. I previously served as a therapeutic horseback riding and Special Olympics coach, and currently work in social skills/support groups for children, adults, and parents. In my work I've come to realize the great need for services and work support for adults with autism in the community. I hope to be a part of a movement that meets the need ASAP.
Board of Directors
Laimute Druskis
Intake/Assessment
Special Education Teacher
Moderate/Severe
innercircle1946@comcast.net
Ten years of teaching the moderate to severe population, specializing in Autism. For the past five years, she has helped create a transition program within a school district and a private institution.
Benita Ayala
Advocacy
bjc9702@gmail.com
Benita is a mother to two boys. Her youngest son, Chris, has non-verbal autism. Benita sits on several committees in the Sacramento area and has 16 years of experience advocating for the differently abled community.