We recently had the chance to connect with Christina Callahan M.B.A and have shared our conversation below.
Christina , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I typically dedicate the first 90 minutes of my day to listening to new music. I find it’s the best way for me to center myself and gain focus for the day ahead.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Christina Callahan, founder of Harmony House Day Program, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities. Our mission is to create an environment that is not only exciting and fun but also sensitive to the needs of neurodivergent individuals.
Harmony House Day Program is unique in its commitment to involving participants in the community through engaging events. We host a quarterly bowling league, organize dances for the special needs community, and provide respite retreats for the neurodivergent community. Our retreats offer parents and caretakers an opportunity to relax while we care for their loved ones in a group setting.
The Harmony House brand is built on principles of excellence, fun, and providing top-tier experiences for all our participants.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My family has always recognized my potential and willingness to help others. I recall my grandmother being the first to observe my natural ability to care for others selflessly.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely! I almost gave up this past summer with the expansion of the Harmony House Day Program summer camp. I came up with the idea to host a summer program just three weeks before summer began, which was an incredibly challenging task. Within those three weeks, I had to market and advertise the program, set up transportation options, create daily lesson plans and activities, and organize field trips—all while renovating our new space before camp even started.
With the support of friends, family, and a lot of prayer, our summer camp opened successfully, and we completely filled our program to capacity. Creating our summer camp was one of our biggest achievements this year!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming space for the special needs community. My goal is to always provide exceptional experiences and foster inclusive environments with every project and event I develop for this community.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I am most at peace when I see or hear the relief from families I have helped. Most parents or caretakers have limited resources and support for their loved ones, and that is where Harmony House Day Program comes in. We not only provide respite care for families, but we also offer resources and support to help families better care for their loved ones.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.harmonyhousedayprogram.com
- Instagram: HarmonyHouse_DayProgram
- Facebook: Harmony House Day Program
- Other: TikTok: HarmonyHouseDayPrg
Image Credits
Photography: Christian Murray
