Branching Out was founded in 2018 by a parent who deeply understood the gaps in support for families navigating developmental disabilities. She did not just advocate for her own child, she became a respected leader in the field, known for her ability to bridge systemic knowledge with real-world experience.
With a background in both caregiving and systems-level coordination, she built Branching Out as a place where families could find trustworthy, consistent, and truly compassionate care.
What began as a small operation has since grown into a statewide team of heart-led professionals, including direct care providers and licensed therapists. The organization has expanded its services to include occupational, physical, and speech therapy, and continues to grow with future plans for a dedicated community center.
At every stage, Branching Out has stayed rooted in the same mission: to support families with the kind of care we’d want for our own.
Founded in 2018 by a mom and professional who refused to accept “good enough” as the standard of care.
Our Story
Founded in 2018 by Cherrie Vierra, Branching Out was born from her personal experience as a professional and a special needs and adoptive parent. With just $500 and a dream, Cherrie started the organization to build a different kind of support system for families like her own and to make her community a better place for children.
Cherrie Vierra
meet the founder
Full-spectrum support for kids and young adults
Trusted by families across Arizona
Consistent providers, not constant turnover
DDD-funded services (HCBS + therapies)
Support that is relational, not transactional
Built for real families
Transparent & Ethical
Led by parents
Why Families Choose Us
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We work with families of children and young adults who have developmental disabilities. Most of our services are available to families who are eligible through Arizona’s Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), but we also offer programs that are open to the community.
If you are seeking DDD-funded services, you will need to be connected with the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities. If you’re not sure where to start, our team can guide you through the eligibility and referral process.
We serve families across Arizona, with most services delivered in the home or community. Therapy services may also be available via telehealth when appropriate.
Services are free for families who qualify through DDD. Our community programs are offered at little to no cost to our community through our non-profit partner Branching Out Foundation AZ.
We are a women-led organization founded by people who have lived experience raising children with developmental disabilities. We combine professional expertise with a personal understanding of what families truly need, delivering care that is consistent, ethical, and relationship-focused.
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1820 E. Ray Road
Suite a204
Chandler, AZ 85225
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Branching Out Family Services
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