Meet the ECAC Staff – Kim Eroh

What brought you to ECAC and tell us about your current role?

Almost 12 years ago, when my son Jaxson was diagnosed with autism, ECAC was one of the first organizations I turned to for support. Over the years, I’ve participated in their programs as a parent, while my son became involved with the Junior Youth Advisory Team. As an EC teacher, I also partnered with ECAC to bring valuable programming to my school, benefiting staff, families, and students.

I jokingly say that I've admired ECAC from afar for years, telling my husband that I would work here one day - and that day finally came when a teaching position opened up with the ACHIEVE Pre-ETS program - an opportunity I was thrilled to step into.

Why do you love being a part of ECAC?

I love being a part of ECAC because it is an organization that truly makes a difference for individuals with disabilities. The ECAC mission and values align perfectly with my passion for advocacy, education, and empowerment. Knowing that the work we do helps create positive change in the lives of families and children and young adults with disabilities is incredibly fulfilling.

What is the most memorable event you have attended with ECAC?

As a parent, I attended a conference with my son, who was speaking on a panel as a member of ECAC's Junior Youth Advisory Team. Watching him overcome his nervousness to share his story with a room full of adults, was such a powerful moment. It was that day that he truly began seeing himself as a self-advocate and it has made a tremendous difference in his confidence.

What keeps you motivated and inspired?

In my job, I work with transition-aged students with disabilities, supporting them as they prepare for life after high school. I am continually inspired by their resilience and determination, and I love witnessing their growth from week to week. Seeing their progress reaffirms the value of the work I do and the impact it has on their futures.

What is one piece of advice you would like to give to the parents you work with?

One piece of advice I always share with parents is this: You are the expert on your child. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and never be afraid to advocate for what your child needs. So much of the process can be overwhelming, but there are resources, support networks, and organizations like ECAC that are here to help. Stay informed, build strong partnerships with educators, and remember that your voice matters in shaping your child’s education and future.

Tell us more about your life outside of ECAC.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. In the fall, you can usually find me on a rugby field, cheering on my oldest son, Jacob, as he plays college rugby. The rest of the year, we often visit local zoos and farms because my youngest son, Jaxson, loves animals and dreams of becoming a veterinarian. He also stays busy with swimming, tennis, and competing on his school's quiz bowl team.

One thing people may not know about me…

I am a survivor of a rare form of ovarian cancer. I was diagnosed when Jaxson was just a year old, and this journey led me to create a nonprofit for cancer patients, as well as a worldwide network of women with the same type of cancer who connect and support one another. Through this group, we have partnered with researchers at the Hudson Institute of Medical Research to publish a research article analyzing our collective experiences. We are working to make sure that women who are diagnosed have the resources and support that they need to better understand their diagnosis and the information needed to have an educated discussion with their medical team.