Michelle Soodek is an alumnus of Adelphi University where she graduated with a Master of Social Work degree. Michelle’s goal as a social worker is to empower individuals to live active, productive, and fulfilling lives. She is the recipient of the Outstanding Service Award from New York State Parent and Teachers, Inc. for her work with Parent to Parent of New York State and a Certificate of Recognition from the East Meadow Special Education Parent Teacher Association. In 2000, Michelle began the first special needs Girl Scout Troop in East Meadow and in 2008 she founded My Special Place, Inc., an after-school recreation and socialization program for teenagers with special needs. Michelle’s passion for her work embraces the belief that all people deserve respect, dignity, and the right for self determination.