Meet Our Staff

As the co-founder of Chances Advocates LLC, I am Arilea Fenty, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, and Certified Dementia Practitioner. With over 17 years of experience in social work, I have dedicated my career to supporting children and families through various challenges. My expertise is particularly beneficial in helping parents of autistic children navigate the complexities of this journey. I bring a deep understanding of the unique needs and strengths of children on the autism spectrum, and I am committed to providing personalized support and guidance. My professional experience allows me to connect families with the right resources, therapies, and strategies to help their children thrive. As a parent of a child with autism, I intimately understand the day-to-day challenges and triumphs that come with this journey. This personal experience, combined with my 17 years as a social worker, equips me with the empathy and insight needed to truly support and advocate for your family. I am here to ensure you receive the necessary tools and support, fostering an environment where your child can reach their full potential. Together, we can advocate for your child’s needs, access essential services, and create a path to success and well-being.

As the co- founder of Chances Advocates LLC and a 401k specialist, I understand the profound impact that financial stability and planning can have on families, especially those with children who have special needs. As a father of a child with autism, I intimately know the day-to-day challenges and triumphs that come with raising a child on the spectrum. Our mission is to make a tangible difference in the lives of children with autism by providing essential resources and support. We believe in empowering fathers by creating a community where we can share our experiences, normalize our feelings, and find strength in understanding that it’s okay to feel the way we do. Together, we can make a significant impact and support each other in this important journey.

Dr. Shirley Johnson has over 45 years of experience in the field of education, serving as a special education liaison with several districts and bringing extensive experience as a principal and counselor. She has coordinated a Community of Learning initiative, emphasizing parent involvement, education, and communication. Dr. Johnson’s diverse background includes roles as an associate professor, principal, secondary school counselor, and special education teacher. With a deep passion for advocating for children with unique abilities, she is committed to helping families maneuver through the school district system to ensure their children’s success. Dr. Johnson believes that once parents have the knowledge and tools, they will become their child’s biggest advocates and most powerful voices