The Tony Richards Leadership Academy (TRLA) recently launched its new institute which recognizes the often-untapped potential leadership abilities of individuals on the autism spectrum. The new 501c3 will fill the gap in development resources and provide training and opportunities tailored to the specific needs of adults with disabilities so that they can grow, learn, and succeed.
The nonprofit organization focuses on individuals who want to develop better relationships in their lives, as a springboard to ongoing education and opportunities that others may have told them are not within their reach. TRLA intentionally engages autistics in its leadership and program delivery, embracing the belief “nothing about us without us.” Their programs are developed by, with, and for those persons living with autism, with every individual playing the most important part in developing their life path.
Non-profit veteran Dave Bartek will serve as CEO for the TRLA. Bartek, who is Metro Detroit-based, brings a wealth of experience in taking charge at various organizations, teams, and individuals. He has worked with notable companies and nonprofits, including AAA/The Auto Club Group, The United Way, and Catholic Charities, as well as multiple boards and agencies in an advisory capacity, spanning local, statewide, and national impact. Bartek has built his career in training and development, with a special focus on leadership and coaching.
“We are excited to announce the creation of this new academy today,” said Tony Richards, founder, and president of the TRLA who has partnered with Bartek on this initiative. “Programming will be hosted virtually and will offer life planning through basic and advanced leadership skills training to ensure that our students will have every opportunity to learn and lead.”
Richards brings a wealth of knowledge and experience has already led leadership development programs working with ministries, associations, and nonprofits in America, Africa, India, Indonesia, Japan, Haiti, and Pakistan. He is also the co-founder and past board chair of the North Dakota Autism Connection, a non-profit designed to provide education, training, and resources to families with children living on the autism spectrum.
“The TRLA is life legacy work for me,” said Richards. “It is paramount that we ensure that those living with autism, including my beloved daughter, Faith, have the support they need to move forward in life. Our mission and focus is to help all people with disabilities to learn and grow to be the absolute best of their God-given potential.”
“I am privileged to be the first Chief Executive Officer for the Tony Richards Leadership Academy (TRLA), collaborating with the President and Founder, Tony Richards,” said Bartek. “The launch of the academy is the result of a significant amount of time, sweat, and tears by many engaged volunteers, board members, and colleagues. Leading this academy is a
culmination of my decades of experience in coaching and mentoring individuals and teams, which is my true passion and joy!”
The Academy’s inaugural program will be the Launch You! Life Leadership Bootcamp is planned for early January 2022. This safe, exploratory program is designed for individuals who are autistic and desire to develop skills, relationships, and pathways that can open new avenues for their life journey and living their best self! The program looks to build upon each person’s capacity to engage in activities that promote community and work-life and that honors their individual preferences, choices, and abilities.
To find out more about the Launch You! Life Leadership Bootcamp visit yourleadershipacademy.org
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