Ted and Melissa Parker Early Intervention Classroom

Location

The Scott Center for Autism

Year Established

2019

Purpose

To improve the lives of children and families affected by autism through treatment, research and training.

History

In 2015 Melissa and Ted Parker founded their non-profit, The Parker Foundation for Autism and Child Development, to provide free resources to children and families impacted by autism and special needs through three fully funded programs specializing in education, sports and the arts.

Ted Parker graduated from the University of Central Florida and holds Bachelor’s Degrees in Business Administration and Management Information Systems. He participated in collegiate athletics during his educational career and was a dual-varsity athlete. He remains active with the University through the Alumni Association and the Golden Knights Clubs. 

Ted is Founder and CEO of Revolution Technologies and has more than two decades of experience in solutions, contracting, and staffing. He is responsible for Revolution’s overall vision and direction and remains very active in the day-to-day operations with a high focus on client development and supply chain. 

Ted strongly believes in giving back to his community financially, and by volunteering his time. He is actively involved in charitable organizations such as the Scott Center for Autism, where he is a member of the advisory board.

Melissa came to the area through the military when her father was transferred to Patrick Air Force Base in 1987. A graduate of Satellite High School, she obtained her degree as a Registered Nurse from Eastern Florida State College and worked in the acute care settings at Homes Regional Medical Center and Florida Hospital until the birth of her son. 

In 2008 Melissa established Precision Screening, Inc., a background screening, education, and employment verification organization where she currently serves clients both at a local and national level. 

Melissa keeps her nursing license active, so that she may use her expertise to advocate for children and families affected by autism. She also currently holds the title of Mrs. Southeast International 2017 and uses the platform to reach a broader audience for autism awareness and to inspire others to give back in their communities. 

Ted and Melissa have two children: their son, Brendan, and daughter, Carson. Their son was diagnosed with autism in 2010 and attended The Scott Center for Autism to receive early intervention ABA Therapy. The couple founded The Parker Foundation for Autism and Child Development in January 2015 to take a more hands-on approach to serving families touched by Autism Spectrum Disorders and related disabilities, like their family.   

Through their three fully funded programs---Speak Through Sports, Speak Through Arts, and Speak Through Education---they are working to enrich the lives of and bridge the gap between children with autism, their families, and the community in which we live.