Uniquely Yours Specialized Care

Uniquely Yours Specialized Care invites families, business leaders, and community members to an educational fundraising open house and information session on Tuesday, November 17, from 4:00-7:00pm with a program at 5:30pm at Walk Thru Plans, 4006 N Hainje Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.

Guests will meet the Uniquely Yours Co-Executive Directors, hear from families and disability advocates and learn about Uniquely Yours specialized care and programming for children and young adults with disabilities and the plan for its developing facility in Harrisburg. The organization is undertaking a $2.5 million capital campaign to create a home designed around the needs of the people it serves.

“Every family deserves to know their child is safe, understood, celebrated, and cared for,” said Dr. Sarah Parmenter, co-director of Uniquely Yours. “We want the community to see why this work matters and what a thoughtfully designed permanent home could make possible for children and families.”

The planned facility is intended to include spaces that support movement, calming, accessibility, learning, play, and connection. A permanent home would also provide greater stability for the specialized care and programming families rely on.

“Our invitation is for anyone who wants to learn,” said Emily Bartscher, co-director of Uniquely Yours. “Whether you are a parent, neighbor, employer, or community partner, we hope you will come meet us, ask questions, and see the vision.”

Featured Speakers include Community Disability Advocates:

Keynote Speakers: Co-Foundresses: Emily Bartscher and Dr. Sarah Parmenter

Emily’s passion for supporting individuals with disabilities began through a lifelong friendship with Megan, who had cerebral palsy and complex medical needs. After Megan’s passing, Emily began providing monthly respite care, a commitment she has continued for 13 years. She has also spent 14 years as an Early Childhood Special Education teacher, supporting young children with multiple disabilities. As a mother of two daughters with multiple disabilities, Emily brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her work. Her approach centers on creating safe, joyful, and inclusive spaces where children and families feel seen, supported, and valued.

Sarah’s dedication to inclusion was shaped by her experience raising her son, Jaiden, who has cerebral palsy and complex medical needs. This personal journey deepened her understanding of the challenges families face and the importance of dependable, individualized support. Professionally, Sarah has served as a special education teacher, personalized learning teacher and Assistant Director of Special Education for the Harrisburg School District, overseeing programs across seven schools. She also teaches at Augustana University, preparing future educators to support students with disabilities. Her work is grounded in advocacy, inclusion, and ensuring every child has access to compassionate, individualized care.