Our founder

DARLENE J. HOLLINGSWORTH

ONE OF THE TOP CAREGIVERS IN AMERICA

Although born and raised in Chicago, Darlene was “a Texan by choice”. She fell in love with Texas and lived here for over 35 years. Darlene always served the Lord and others. No matter where she lived she was active in her local church and community. Darlene had two Bachelors of Arts degrees both in education. In her twenties and thirties Darlene was a gospel ventriloquist who traveled across the U.S.A. and Brazil, S.A., giving voice to “Peggy”. Darlene also worked at a Pioneer Girls Camp in Wisconsin for over 14 years as Activity Coordinator and the Director of a horse camp for teen girls.

Darlene, a single mother, was self-employed for 14 years with an in-home typing service in order to be able to care for Jonathan. Due to the 911 tragedy Darlene lost her business and needed to find full time employment which allowed her to care for Jonathan after school. However, being unable to commit to an additional 8 hours per week, she was dismissed from her 8-3 job, as she needed to be present for her son during after-school hours.

While daycare facilities cater to elementary-aged children and adult day habs serve the elderly, there was a notable absence of provisions for individuals aged 13-22 in Northeast Tarrant County, a demographic often referred to as the “Forgotten Age Group.” Recognizing this unmet need, she founded THE CLUBHOUSE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS, Inc. in Bedford, Texas.  As articulated by a television host, the organization aimed to “bridge the gap.” Within a year, she successfully conceived the organization’s framework, obtained incorporation as a 501c3 entity, and commenced operations in 2006.