Thursday, October 8, 2009

Sherri Shepherd of "The View" to be spokesperson for YAI Network, which serves people with disabilities and their families

From Philip H.Levy, Ph.D., CEO and President of the YAI Network:


I am proud to announce that Sherri Shepherd (pictured), an Emmy-winning co-host of ABC-TV’s “The View,” has enthusiastically agreed to become the YAI Network’s spokesperson and spread our mission to a wider audience. Sherri knows first-hand about how vital our programs are — her son, Jeffrey, receives services from the YAI Network’s Gramercy School, part of the New York League for Early Learning. She is eager to help us to increase public awareness about the needs and abilities of people with developmental disabilities.

Sherri has embraced her new role in an amazing way! On Wednesday, she appeared on the Rachael Ray Show (watch Sherri’s appearance on Rachael Ray now). She spoke about YAI, the services we provide and the importance of establishing a school for children with autism and other developmental disabilities to attend once they graduate from preschool. Learn about YAI's efforts to launch the school.

“Just to look at my son and see where he started when he came to YAI and where he is now, gives me a profound sense of gratitude,” said Sherri, who is donating her time. “I don't know what I would have done without YAI. The staff care; they love; they nurture; and they want to keep building each child’s potential.”

Sherri’s new show “Sherri” premiered on Lifetime TV on Oct. 5, the same day her new book, “Permission Slips: A Woman’s Guide to Giving Herself a Break,” was published.

We are honored to have Sherri serve as spokesperson for the YAI Network. As a parent, she knows how important it is to find a nurturing environment that provides hope and opportunity for her son and thousands upon thousands of people with disabilities and their families.