New Beginnings: Jeremiah’s Promise Implements IWBMC™ Changing Lives for
Families in Southeast Georgia
For years, Vanessa Smith searched for ways to “build a bridge” with her son Kylan, who lives with autism. When she discovered Jacob’s Ladder’s IWBMC™, she found hope and inspiration to create her own school, following in the footsteps of founder Amy O’Dell. This is a powerful story of love, resilience, and a mission to uplift families in desperate need of support. Join us in exploring how Vanessa is transforming lives and creating a brighter future for children like Kylan.
In southeast Georgia, Vanessa Smith has established Jeremiah’s Promise, a school implementing the Interpersonal Whole-Brain Model of Care® (IWBMC™) to support families affected by neurodevelopmental disorders. This initiative aims to provide effective therapeutic programs to a community with limited resources.
Vanessa’s journey began when her son, Kylan, faced significant hurdles in the school system as a student with autism. “I Googled special needs schools in Georgia and discovered Jacob’s Ladder,” she recalls. “Listening to Amy’s podcasts about her journey, I fell in love with the methodology and knew I wanted to be part of this success story.”
Kylan faced communication challenges. “For years, I felt like there was a bridge between Kylan and me that I couldn’t cross,” Vanessa shares. “Through the IWBMC ™, I’ve learned how to enter his world. Now, he can express his needs, and I truly understand him.”
Thanks to the IWBMC™, Kylan has made remarkable progress over the past two years. “He can now self-regulate, his language has blossomed, and he has gained independence. Most importantly, his relationships with our family have strengthened,” Vanessa notes. She attributes these changes to improvements in Kylan’s sensory challenges. “He used to be sensitive to touch, but because of the IWBMC™, he now loves to hug and be hugged.”
The need for effective therapeutic support became clear as Vanessa connected with other parents. “Many children, like Kylan, can fall through the cracks,” she explains. “Parents are devastated when their children, especially those with special needs like autism, aren’t prepared for the next grade.” Inspired by the biblical verse Jeremiah 29:11, she believes every child is born with a purpose. “Kylan helped me find my purpose,” she shares. “He showed me how beautiful life can be, even amidst the challenges.”
Jeremiah’s Promise opened for the 2024-25 school year and currently serves four students, with 16 on the waitlist. “I’m just happy to be on this mission and to help grow the journey that Amy started,” she expresses. “This isn’t just a school; it’s a ministry,” she emphasizes, reflecting her commitment to supporting these children and their families.
