Catherine (Cathy), also a part of the evolution of ATS, is a passionate advocate, innovative storyteller, and community strategist. For twenty years, she has provided comprehensive support and passionate advocacy to individuals and self-advocates, their families, and surrounding natural supports throughout their communities. She considers herself a servant leader, one who cultivates, develops and maintains relationships with grace and grit in order to create, enhance, and promote services and programs that transform lives. On a personal level, her calling (not a career) allows her to give back some of what has so graciously been given to her family, including her young adult son with autism. She manages a blog, “The Caffeinated Advocate” and has been an author and/or editor of twenty-one books. Cathy is often a first point of contact for families at the time of intake, and manages family support efforts, community outreach, and branding at ATS. She lives in Allegheny County, PA with “Mama Betty” (the ATS given nickname for her mother), her son, Christian, and (many … many) kitties.

Fun Fact(s) About Catherine: As you may have guessed by her blog name, she’s a bit of a coffee connoisseur. Cathy also loves walking outdoors, visiting Presque Isle in the summers with her boyfriend, peanut butter (just give her a spoon and step aside), and listening to Chilltrax (an internet radio station featuring downtempo, electronic "chillout” tracks). She’s “rescue mom” to Callie, Cookie, Candie, Maddie, Hannah, and Raven (and other beloved furry angels across the Rainbow Bridge).