By Andrea Reay, Executive Director, Discover Burien

As the Executive Director of Discover Burien, it is my honor and privilege to help support Burien businesses and non-profit organizations. I recently had the opportunity to tour Children’s Therapy Center’s Burien location, at 127 SW 156th St in Burien.

Children’s Therapy Center maximizes the potential of children with special needs. They are the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit pediatric therapy program in Washington State. Since 1979, they have provided essential services and products for children age birth to 18 including physical and speech therapy, early intervention services, and orthotics and equipment. In partnership with parents and caregivers, they celebrate where each child is today and work toward who they can become.

Early intervention is key to maximizing every child’s potential. Over 30% of the children that receive services starting at birth will not even require special education once they enter public school, because of the therapy and services provided at Children’s Therapy center.

Children’s Therapy Center is committed to serving every child in need. They serve over 3,200 families annually, regardless of their ability to pay for services. That means that with an annual operating budget of around 10 million dollars, over 3 million is committed to uncompensated care. Much of the funding for the organization comes from fundraising and grants so that they can continue to provide care to all families.

On March 21st you have an opportunity to support the work CTC is committed to providing for and in our community by attending their annual dinner and fundraising auction. The event will take place at Emerald Downs in Auburn and all proceeds will benefit Children’s Therapy Center. $85 out of the $125 total ticket price is tax deductible.

For more information on Children’s Therapy Center and their annual auction, please visit www.ctckids.org/

-Andrea Reay is the Executive Director of Discover Burien. Discover Burien is a non-profit service organization dedicated to economic development and community engagement in Burien. For more information on local non-profits and events, as well as specials and discounts offered by member businesses please visit www.discoverburien.org