On the southeast side of New Mexico in Chaves County, Roswell is the epicenter of the “invasion of 1947” alien controversy, and all the extraterrestrial theories surrounding it, including the International UFO Museum and Research Center.  Roswell is home to the New Mexico Military Institute, the state’s last “free” zoo, and Bottomless Lakes.  This town is the birthplace of Nancy Lopez and Robert H. Goddard, who sent the world’s first rockets into the stratosphere.  Also in Roswell, Eastern New Mexico University boasts one of the nation’s few college programs for students with disabilities. 

This community is also home to The Arc of Roswell—a non-profit advocacy organization with a strong support group for parents of school-age children.  They also run a therapeutic horse program (Trailblazers) and an inclusive summer recreation program. 

Though she has been active for a number of years in the parent support groups, Trish Gull accepted the role as coordinator for their Community MAP coalition primarily because, she says, “I found I could get some money for some of my son’s activities and help other people.  I also think it improves the community, because we can educate the typical population.”