Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has helped me a lot with my son Rudy..it has great resources.

The Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has done a wonderful job in raising awareness of Williams Syndrome and in providing assistance to individuals with Williams Syndrome. The Foundation provides an enormous amount of information on their website and interacts very often with their large following on Facebook. It has been our pleasure to donate goods for the past several years, and look forward to working with such a great non-profit in the future.

The William Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has been a wonderful tool for my family and friends. My daughter Mazzi is 12 and has WS. During times of confusion I ask questions and get caring, loving and compassionate responses. I have also been able to meet families in my city because they are apart of the group. Most importantly, my family gets to see first hand of the struggles that parents of WS have. They also get hope by seeing the milestones each child passes and celebrate with our WS families. At this point I wouldn't know what to do without Penny Perez and the people of this foundation. I highly recommend them and know that no matter what I'm going through they are there for me and most importantly, Mazzi. Thanks for allowing me to share, Leigh

I am a volunteer and parent to a Williams Syndrome child and I can't thank Williams Syndrome Changing Lives enough for all they do in our WS community. The constant awareness efforts, support and information is wonderful, practical and useful. We have found so many resources through the foundation and we are forever grateful!

I am honored to work with Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation. Their awareness efforts and community reach is frowing rapidly and very muxh needed.

Support services are outstanding and we look forward to our continued work with them.

The William Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation advocates for their cause is a very professional way. We are always impressed by their Facebook posts and their web site. The people behind their newsletter have to be congratulated and thanked for publishing such a first class way of getting valuable information to their subscribers.

I am happy to be a monthly donor to this organization. I have found them to be ethical and true to their mission. I am both a personal donor as well as a company donor and will continue to do so to enhance their very important work.

I found out that my son had williams syndrome not knowing anything about it and being terrified not knowing anything about it, I turned to the williams syndrome page and found out everything I needed to know it's scary when a doctor diagnoses your child with a rare disorder and have no where to turn to for help and support, thank god for this page cause I was truly stressed and scared at the same time when we found out

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation provides invaluable resources to parents to assist with their loved ones from diagnosis to adulthood through infographics and support groups. Many individuals have been provided with once in a lifetime opportunities that the may not have been possible without the assistance program or Project 7.

My grandson had WS and his parents rely heavily on Changing Lives for information, education and medical referrals and resources as well as support. We would be lost without them. Thank you for you kindness and your willingness to always be available and guide us in the right direction.

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation is a true blessing to many. They provide excellent educational materials, fantastic resources and a wonderful support page. WSCLF has given me the opportunity to connect with thousands of other parents & caregivers who face the same daily challenges as myself. Thank you WSCLF for the wonderful support and knowledge you provide on a consistent basis.

I have volunteered the WSCLF as admin of the support board and as a recreational advocacy coordinator for quite some time. While I have been able to help families that have received or awaiting a diagnosis get the information they need to make educated decisions about medical care and assists families in finding athletic programming for their WS kids, but as a parent of a WS teen I have been able to find comfort and belonging in this group of people. As parents we face special and specific challenges in raising our children to reach their potential. It's a struggle we all face and share and it's as unique as the children we parent. The network CLF is able to provide to it's members is an outstanding one of kind gift to each of us. Because I can share stories and learn from other parents - I am stronger and I am inspired! Thank you Penny for founding this amazing community!!!

The WS changing lives foundation has been extremely supportive when I need information, a shoulder to listen and a place where I can connect with other families. It is an important tool and support system for myself and my family.

I can honestly say that I would be lost without this foundation. I contacted them to assist my husband and I in understanding Williams syndrome and all of the obstacles we were up against. We were completely overwhelmed and did not know where to even start to get information and help. I will be forever thankful for all that they have done for my family and continue to do.

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation provides assistance to families finding solutions for family members diagnosed with Williams syndrome. This foundation helps many families by providing financial assistance in addition to providing vital information to parents and medical professionals helping those diagnosed with this rare disorder.

This organization was founded on the belief that a community of families could help other families dealing with this rare disorder by sharing information and experiences. With this in mind, and through collective experience, we can help educate medical professionals and parents with children diagnosed with Williams syndrome in order to enable those diagnosed with Williams syndrome live life to its fullest potential.

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has been amaxing for my family. Penny and the foundation have been there for us since the day our son was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome. We've been given information to provide our pediatrician with regarding treatment, advice about what services to request, and overall support and guidance. I've never had a question they haven't been able to answer. The newsletters they send keep parents informed and up to date on information. They've also had webinars to help parents understand legal matters pertaining to children with Williams Syndrome. I can honestly say without this foundation I'd be overwhelmed and lost in the diagnosis instead of being well informed and in control. I can't thank them enough for all they've done.

The Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation is one of the most responsible, ethical charities I have ever encountered. I have known Penny Perez, founder of WSCL, for over 30 years, and when her own son, Keith, was diagnosed with this disorder, Penny was not satisfied to just find answers for herself, but was determined to help other families affected by Williams Syndrome as well. That's the type of kind, selfless person that she is. As such, when I donate to the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation, I know without a doubt that my donation is going directly where it is supposed to go - to help families affected by Williams Syndrome. I know that we can expect impressive and great things from this foundation in the future.

Penny Perez and the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation does exactly what its name suggests! They actually use the funds they acquire to directly help people and families in need who are affected by Williams syndrome to help change their lives in a positive manner. In addition to raising awareness, the foundation runs support groups, sends children to camp, features newsletters, holds webinars with professionals who can provide guidance to families, and interacts directly with their members on a daily basis and much, much more. The non-profit organization is run professionally and transparently as well as with passion and love. Penny's inspiration for starting this foundation came from her own adorable son who was born with Williams syndrome. Faced with this, she soon recognized the need for additional support within the Williams syndrome community and founded the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation. The foundation has helped so many people in so many ways. If you are looking to donate to a worthy cause, please consider the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation.

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has been a wonderful source of information as well as inspiration. Our daughter is 11 and to know that someone is there to ask advice, offer support and be non judgemental about anything is just so comforting as we travel through this journey with our daughter. Thank WS Changing Lives Foundation for all that you do.
Tanya (daughter Nadena 11) from Australia

just want to tell people out there if you've never been on here you will definitely find your answer here, penny Perez such a great person I've met threw others on this page, I'd recommend it to others out there its an awsome page to join WILLIAMS Syndrome Changing Lives is one of the most organization I'd ever join thanks to everyone who puts in a post daily or everyday it's the most helpful page I've learn a lot so come on and join us

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives has been one of the best organization I have ever found. They are VERY informative and well educated in Williams Syndrome. Penny the president and founder is always available to help in anyway she can while dealing with her own son Keith who has WS.

My daughter is 21 (WS) started having severe anxiety about 4 mos ago, I contacted Penny for assistance in getting a weighted blanket and noise reduction headphones for her, in a matter of a week Penny had them ordered and on their way to us. Williams Syndrome Changing Lives is simply AWESOME!! Hats off to them!!!

This organization has been on the forefront of getting information and services to parents with Williams Syndrome. I was contacted to provide a legal seminar regarding education for individuals with disabilities. I was very impressed.

Mario M. Blanch, Esq.

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation is a wonderful organization! It provides a wealth of information for parents and medical providers. As a parent of a son with Williams Syndrome it is wonderful having a resource like this when I have questions. Also being able to connect with other Williams Syndrome parents is priceless.

WS Changing Lives Foundation is an excellent organization that really helped us when we were searching for a support group. The information they offer, the awareness they create, and the friendliness are a few of the amazing qualities that make them who they are! They do not only offer information for WS families, but also provide practical advice about various issues WS families face.

We are happy to be involved with Williams Syndrome Changing Lives! They are a valuable resource for the community and bring much attention to this rare disorder. They provide a multitude of resources and information about Williams syndrome to the public and to healthcare workers.

My daughter was diagnosed at the age of 14 and she is now 25. I wish there had been this foundation when she was younger. There is so much information provided that we need. They provide information on medical and day to day issues that arise. Great support from other parents and we have been connected with many other families through the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation.

When our son was first diagnosed with WS. I was so afraid to reach out to others at first. Why? I guess I was so unsure of the future I had to take it all in, but finally when Wesley turned about 2 I started reaching out, this organization gave me the first open door to other families who was experiencing the same challenges ( and blessings) as ours. The educational information is easy to understand and Great! I researched the information as soon as he was diagnosed! The support and love has helped me be more open and accepting to this wonderful journal my son is taking me on! I Have met a few families and Penny now, Wow what amazing Parents and people! I just wish I would not have waited so long! Thank you

We are honored to be working with this wonderful foundation. As a foundation partner, we look for organizations with a similar mission and we believe that this Foundation far exceeds that. They have a commitment to the individuals they serve and are an invaluable asset to the Williams syndrome community.

My dear friend Keith is so cute and I would love to meet him and he is always smileing and love in kind little boy :)

I enjoy the newsletter that is emailed to me. There is nothing like being able to look into another parents eyes and remember that we aren't on this journey alone.

Foundations like this are so important. This one does an amazing job at bringing the truth and awareness when it comes to William's Syndrome. A lot of the general public don't fully understand the implications of William's syndrome and this foundation does a great job in properly educating. Great and loving community behind it. I can gladly say this organization is making a positive mark on the world and the lives and families it effects.

This foundation helped my family and I when our son was first diagnosed. We were provided with helpful information, charts and resources that we needed to best monitor the various medical concerns for him.

We would be lost without them and their website and support.

As a parent who has a son with Williams Syndrome, you are constantly searching for answers. Answers to why and how. Also an answer to the main question - "What can I do for my child that will help him the most." The founder of Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has been able to answer questions for my family. I got the pleasure of meeting with the founders and meeting other families in early October in an event started by the founders of this nonprofit. My wife and I just happened to be on a weekend getaway when we noticed that the foundation was sponsoring a get together. We met up with them and it was a life changing weekend for us. When you can look into the eyes of another parent and you know they understand your daily and life long struggles, you immediately become bonded with them in a way that is unexplainable. We continue to follow the families we met that weekend. Without this nonprofit, we would have never met some of these amazing families. Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation is truly a big family. Thanks for everything you have done and continue to do for our families!

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation continues to make an impact in the Williams Syndrome Community. They offer great support, resources and assistance. We would be lost without them!

Our son was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome. My husband and I are both 26 and he is our first baby. We were both devastated when he got the diagnosis confirmed. He is 4 months old now and we are trying to pull ourselves together and learn all we can for our precious son. Penny has helped us so much! She talked to me on the phone and answered any questions I had and encouraged me. She shared her story and told me I could contact her anytime. She took me under her wing and it has and does help me sooo much to know that she is here and all the info on the website. She called and or texted me to check on me randomly and it was always such a relief when she did. Just to know someone was checking on me that knew what I was going through and was knowledgeable on WS meant so much to me and seriously took so much stress off of me. I honestly don't know what I would do or would have done if Penny didn't do all she has done. I can't thank her enough.

My niece has Williams syndrome since she was 9 years of age. Unfortunately, there were no services to assist us with the multitude of questions and resources we needed until we found the Changing Lives Foundation. Caring, understanding and always ready to assist anyone in need. Penny has been the best supporter our family needed. Her website has up-to-date resources which many of our medical and educational professionals can use. I will be recommending other Williams Syndrome families to support the Changing Lives Foundation so that they can receive solid information on who or where to go for Williams Syndrome.

Penny and her foundation have been faithful to my son and family. With up to date information on new research and we only live information from professionals to help with IEP's. Who would remember to contact me in March for summer school info.... Penny that's who.....don't know what I would do without her and my sons twin Keith....another year of awesomeness........

We love this foundation and the support they bring to families. They have provided valuable resources and support for us.

I have come to know this organization over the past few months on facebook. I knew next to nothing about Williams Syndrome. There is so much more to learn but I am very confident my learning wil continue through this group and their terrific newsletter. The facebook group is very welcoming and I have no doubt that lives are changing through the foundation. I would highly recommend that anyone who has Williams Syndrome touch their life become a member of this group both receive and provide support to others. I will certainly recommend membership to anyone I meet. The facebook group is a great place to go to increase awareness, look for resources and help and be supportive. https://www.facebook.com/groups/williamssyndromesupport/ Thanks to Penny Perez for inviting me............ Jean Nicol

This organization provides education, support and resources to parents, families and professionals. I am proud to be associated with such a positive organization. There is so much knowledge shared, increasing the support to families impacted by WS. I am looking forward to seeing the growth and positive things this organization will accomplish in the future.

Our daughter has Williams Syndrome and the support and advice WS Changing Lives offers to us and other WS families is invaluable. I'd recommend them to all directly and indirectly affected by WS, the range of information and promotional tools to raise awareness is outstanding.

My name is Sharon Fialco. I am the author of the award winning Starabella Narrated Picture Books Series with Music for children. The Starabella stories are based on the childhood music and experiences of my daughter Tara. Tara is a pianist and composer who deals with the challenges of autism. Tara has difficulties with auditory processing and social communication. Often isolated and teased at school she turned to her beloved piano to compose songs with lyrics about a musical magical world of acceptance where children played and got along and were accepted for exactly who they are. This world was more socially sensitive than the one she had to face every day. One of her songs, “Welcome to a Bright New World” inspired our family to produce the Starabella series. I wrote the stories based on the concepts in Tara’s music. Tara played 17 of the 22 songs and melodies in the series. My daughter Dana, a talented singer, wrote additional music, narrated the stories and sang the songs. My husband and I published the series. Starabella, the heroine of our books, is a little girl who expresses her thoughts and feelings by singing and playing beautiful music. She sets an example of a child who uses her talents and abilities to overcome challenges to reach for her goals and encourages other children to do the same.

I came across the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation on Twitter. Tara had previously participated with a performance group of talented people with disabilities. I recalled that two of the performers had Williams Syndrome. One young man was a phenomenal pianist, playing rock and roll music, mimicking the style of Jerry Lee Lewis. The other performer was a charming, attractive teenage girl singer with loads of personality. I came to understand that many people with Williams Syndrome have an affinity for music, many with musical talent. I contacted Penny Perez, CEO and Founder of the Williams Syndrome Foundation, thinking that the Starabella stories which feature a musical heroine would appeal to children with Williams Syndrome. I realize also that all children with and without extra challenges benefit from messages of social sensitivity that emphasize acceptance of self and acceptance of others. The books feature Starabella in her home, community and school. Penny got back to me saying that children with Williams Syndrome and autism share some challenges in common. Her son has both Williams Syndrome and autism. We decided to make the Starabella books available to families with children who have Williams Syndrome who visit the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation website and Facebook page. Penny has been magnanimous in offering to review the Starabella books for the benefit of the visitors to the website. It is our shared hope that parents will purchase the books for their children. They will know they are not alone when reading/listening to stories involving a heroine they can relate to. Children will be inspired by Starabella’s messages of acceptance and determination. And they will have fun dancing, singing and dreaming along to the 22 songs and melodies in the stories.
20% of sales will go to benefit the Williams Syndrome Changing lives Foundation.
For further information and to buy the books, please visit: www.starabella.com
Become a fan of Starabella by liking her fan page: www.facebook.com/StarabellaBooks

I am a volunteer and advisor for the Foundation and they are truly changing lives for families. They are dedicated and provide so many needed resources that are not otherwise available.

The also make sure that they have a variety of resources for parents and families.

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has been a source of information and support for my family. They continue to produce valuable and practical resources for all families regardless of the ages of the children with Williams.

I fully support heir efforts and applaud them for their efforts in making a difference in the Williams syndrome community.

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation goes above and beyond to provide great information and resources. I have collaborated with them on a few projects and I appreciate how professional and personable they all are.

I have been watching this organization from a far since its inception and just recently have had the honor of working with them personally. I have to say, the vision is in line with their mission. And their mission is certainly needed within our Williams syndrome community. I am honored to be a part of something that does so much good! Thanks to the WSCLF staff, volunteers, parent partnerships and professionals for helping to create change!

This website is such a valuable tool and resource for families with WS. It has helped us so much! I hope many more people benefit from it the same way we have!

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has been a huge savior for my family and I. I specially want to thank Penny Perez (CEO) for all the help she has supported me with! My gratitude to her and this foundation is infinite. Thank you Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation. You have literally changed our lives :)

I am completely impressed by the dedication of this foundation. The resources, the personal commitment and the work that is being done is amazing. I am honored to be able to be of assistance. Great work!

This group hit the ground running and has grown very rapidly. After we have talked personally to the founder, we found the group to be impressive and having a passion to help other people. Patchwork Peddler is committed to helping other Special Needs organizations, we put much thought and prayer into each of our decisions. We wish that we could help everyone that is in need, but we are limited to who we can help, and we are happy to be helping WSCLF!!!

We have been working with Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation to join forces in spreading awareness about Williams syndrome and other Rare Genetic Disorders. We have found them to be a group of dedicated individuals committed to their cause and purpose.

I would recommend WS Changing Lives to anyone seeking advice and/or help and resources for a loved one with Williams Syndrome. WS Changing Lives has given me a lot of useful and factual information for my research on special needs. I have spoken to the CEO and she is always helpful. Responses to my questions have always been answered in a timely, efficient, and empathetic manner. I have learned a lot through their compassion and eagerness to help. They deserve a lot of credit for changing lives and bringing awareness.

I met Penny through Facebook when she and I were both going "crazy" because our kids were just diagnosed with, in my case, my daughter's schizophrenia, and in her case her son's Williams Syndrome. Both of us needed someone to understand the experiences we were facing as parents of special needs children. We were and still are on a road less traveled, but a road that has led us closer to God and feeling the need to help others who will find themselves on this same road, but instead it will be better paved because of what Penny is doing right now.

They help so many and are always available. I am so proud to help such a great organization that cares so much about families in need.

I can't say enough about Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation. My son has so many medical concerns and I contacted them for resources. They had someone call me and gave me hope for the future, talked to me about resources available and provided me so much information we didn't know. They helped us with WS Clinic services and resources and walked me through how to have my son seen and finally get some answers. We could never have hoped to get to see these specialists without their assistance. They have checked back in with us and let us know they are available for my family. Thank you for all you have done.

This is an amazing foundation. When our daughter tested positive for a serious infection following surgery, Penny and the WSCLF helped us out. They provided us with a weighter blanket that has helped tremendously with anxiety and pain issues, Preschool Prep DVDs since our daughter cannot attend school, various homeschooling resources, reusable Gtube pads, and further help in accessing a Williams Syndrome clinic. I am so grateful for the help and support from this foundation. Penny continues to ask how our daughter is doing and genuinely cares about the people and famiies she helps.

I have experienced this organization since its inception and am continually amazed at the heart, dedication and straight forward direction the WSCLF has for its mission of providing support for WS families. Williams Syndrome is so rare that many in our communities give little recognition to the daily struggles and needs our families have. I am proud to support an organization that gives more than it takes and follows their mission with a compassion and heart like no other.

Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation has helped many families and I feel that assisting in this foundation is a good use of my talents. I feel that the time I devote to the foundation is well used and that the purpose and mission is well represented.

This is a great organization with great leadership. We are proud to be a donor of products to such a good cause.

My nephew, Keith was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome and Autism. The Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation was formed to enhance the lives of children and adults living with a diagnosis of Williams syndrome by providing needed financial assistance with medical, therapeutic, recreational needs and other developmental resources. In addition, the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation provides support for individuals, parents and families through support, outreach and sponsored functions. Awareness and support for this syndrome is paramount to helping these kids, siblings and parents. I am so thankful for the support of the foundation to help my nephew and all these special kids out tbere. Lindsay Perez

This foundation was one that we chose to donate to based on their assisting of children with Williams Syndrome. We donated sensory items for specific children and will continue to work with them.

The Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation is an incredible organization that makes a difference in the lives of individuals with Williams syndrome and their family. The passion and dedication of the people show founded the organization is unparallel. You can sense the passion, commitment and burning desire to make a difference in every interaction.
The Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation makes an incredible impact in what they do – from public awareness of Williams Syndrome to assistance for families and individuals. They are there to make a difference, they are truly unsung heroes in what they are doing in changing lives and bringing joy to people. This group is the best.

We have donated several items to the Williams Syndrome Changing Lives Foundation as we believe they are doing great things for people with Williams Syndrome.