ABOUT US
OUR HISTORY AND HOW THE CLUBHOUSE CAME TO BE
Our journey began in 2006 as a small after-school program with just four young participants. Over the years, we have experienced remarkable growth and now operate from a spacious facility exceeding 6,000 square feet. The Clubhouse for Special Needs now serves over 60 teens and young adults. As we continue to expand, we have added full-day and after-school programs to our offerings. Additionally, we host seasonal day camps during the summer, winter, and spring breaks, providing enriching experiences for school-age children throughout the year.
In 2013, we raised $100k in 3 months and put down a deposit for a 7,151 sq. ft. facility. Our very own building [and the banks]. The community called it a “A GOD THING” – a nucleus of 12 people and their families/friends raised $100K in 2 1/2 months. We grew from 12 teens and young adults with intellectual/physical challenges to 41 in 2 months. Amazing!
Click the button below to learn more about how it all started and about our founder, Darlene Hollingsworth.
MISSION STATEMENT
OPPORTUNITY, GROWTH, SOCIALIZATION
The Clubhouse for Special Needs offers a safe and enjoyable environment for teenagers and young adults with intellectual and physical challenges. Our program focuses on providing opportunities for education, socialization, and independence in a recreational setting.
We welcome individuals with intellectual disabilities and physical challenges, regardless of race, creed, or religion. Additionally, we offer respite services for families.
LOOKING TO GET INVOLVED?
If you’re passionate about making a difference, there are opportunities to volunteer your time or make a donation to support The Clubhouse. Your support will truly impact the lives of teens and young adults with intellectual or physical challenges, providing them with a nurturing environment where they can learn, socialize, and grow.
Our Dedicated Team
Meet our Board of Directors
The board of directors is composed of dedicated individuals who bring a wealth of expertise and experience to guide and support the organization’s mission and vision. They are passionate individuals who are committed to ensuring that our programs and services meet the unique needs of this important community. Their guidance and support are invaluable in helping us bridge the gap in special needs care and support.
President
Barbara Gant-Freeborn
Since taking over as President in 2022, Barbara has led The Clubhouse through an inspiring transformation. When she stepped into the role, the Clubhouse was serving only three clients in the aftermath of the pandemic. Today, thanks to her leadership, it has grown to 44 active Clubbers and continues to expand.
Barbara has been instrumental in forging valuable partnerships with local universities, occupational therapy programs, volunteer organizations, businesses, and community members. These collaborations have played a key role in supporting The Clubhouse’s growth and enhancing the services offered.
One of her notable contributions is the development of the “Come Read with Me” program, a more structured, classroom-based educational opportunity designed to support lifelong learning. At the same time, Barbara remains committed to continuing Darlene’s vision of honoring each individual’s right to choose their own path. She ensures that the Clubhouse maintains its welcoming, recreational atmosphere, fostering social connections that have always been a cornerstone of its success.
Under Barbara’s guidance, The Clubhouse continues to offer community-based outings and life skills training, empowering members to build independence and confidence. She is constantly seeking innovative ideas and building partnerships to further enhance the quality of life for individuals with special needs and their families.
The future is bright for The Clubhouse, and we are excited to continue growing together!
Chairman/Treasurer
Kent Hopkins
Kent Hopkins, in collaboration with Darlene Hollingsworth, co-founded the Clubhouse for Special Needs in 2006. His contributions to the organization have primarily involved offering financial consulting, planning, and oversight to ensure the success of this establishment as a supportive environment for young people with special needs. With a career spanning over 50 years, Kent has acquired extensive experience in accounting, taxes, and business management. This includes a tenure of 15 years at Sherwin Williams and General Electric, 5 years as a partner in a CPA practice in Minnesota, 4 years as an accounting manager for the City of Dallas, and a 38-year presidency at Kent Accounting Systems in Euless, Texas.
Kent expresses gratitude for the community support facilitated through his affiliations with the Rotary Club, The HEB Chamber of Commerce, various churches, and numerous contributing organizations that have played a pivotal role in assisting The Clubhouse for Special Needs.
His service in the U.S. Navy during the early 1960s has been recognized by the U.S. Congress, honoring his role as an aviation electronics technician and radioman in Patrol Squadron Nine. Kent’s vision is centered on guiding young individuals to surmount their challenges and fostering their academic and social development to enhance their overall quality of life, guided by his faith.
board member
Jim Kane
Jim Kane is a single dad of an autistic son. His son started going to the Clubhouse during summers and school holidays. It was a natural transition after high school to a program he knew and loved to go to.
Jim was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania then moved to Omaha, Nebraska where he grew up and later moved to Arlington, Texas where he finished high school at Larmar High School. Jim then went to UTA and graduated with a Business/Marketing degree. Jim Spent his career in Computer Networking and Telecommunication Sales.
Jim has a real need to support and grow the Clubhouse for not only his son but other special needs kids who need community support and love like the rest of us.
Board Member
John Pluhowski
John Pluhowski is a seasoned corporate communications leader with more than 40 years of experience shaping global communications strategies and protecting the reputations of leading brands. He is known for building high-performing teams and bringing a mission-driven approach, with a strong focus on advancing disability inclusion.
Most recently, John served as Chief Communications Officer for TD Bank, N.A., where he tripled the size of the communications function over a decade, built an award-winning storytelling team, and co-sponsored the TD Disability Inclusion Network. During his tenure, he championed initiatives that included more than $1 million in annual donations to Special Olympics of New Jersey for 10 consecutive years and TD’s marquee sponsorship of the Achilles International Hope & Possibility Road Race in Central Park.
Previously, John held senior communications leadership roles at eBay Inc., American General Corporation, and AIG Retirement Services. A longtime disability advocate, he has served on the board of Disability:IN, co-founded its CMO & CCO Coalition, and currently serves as a strategic advisor, as well as with Achilles International and The Clubhouse for Special Needs in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
board member
Elizabeth Phillips
Known as “Enthusiastic Elizabeth,” she is a passionate community leader who encourages others and leads with joy. Elizabeth is dedicated to connecting people through arts and education to strengthen and uplift the community.
She is a wife, mother, and co-owner of Paint By Designs, which opened in 2025. Elizabeth is an active member of the HEB Chamber of Commerce and currently serves as Chair of the Booster Team.
