Chamber Member Chat Deck
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Meet the Member: Believe I Can Academy
Believe I Can Academy (BICA) engages families and communities to encourage and enrich the lives of individuals with different abilities. They strive to create an independent, inclusive environment that promotes success in all areas, including academics, workplace skills, behavior, social-emotional, and home-based success.
About Sarah Davis: Owner, Founder, President
Founder and President of Believe I Can Academy, Sarah Davis plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization's vision and direction. Sarah discovered her ability to teach and reach individuals with special needs when she was just 11 years old. She continues to draw on her experience as a special education teacher and passionate advocate. Sarah leads the Academy with dedication, compassion, and a deep commitment to empowering individuals with special needs.
Sarah is involved in all aspects of the Academy’s operations, from developing innovative educational programs to building relationships with families, staff, and community partners. As an advocate, she works tirelessly to ensure that every student receives the individualized support and opportunities they deserve, guiding families through the complexities of special education and championing their rights.
Her background in special education allows her to design and implement effective, inclusive learning environments where students are nurtured academically, socially, and emotionally. Through her leadership, Sarah has transformed Believe I Can Academy from a small homeschool in her condo into a thriving non-profit that serves students and adults with diverse abilities, always keeping the needs of her community at the heart of every decision.
Believe I Can Academy is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with special needs through a holistic and inclusive approach. The Academy offers a micro-school setting that provides personalized education tailored to each student's unique abilities and learning styles. In addition to academic instruction, Believe I Can Academy advocates for individuals with disabilities and their families, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
The organization hosts a variety of programs, including educational camps, after-school care, and specialized training in independent living and work skills for adults. These initiatives are designed to promote self-sufficiency, confidence, and meaningful community participation.
At Believe I Can Academy, inclusive and collaborative learning is at the core of every program. The Academy fosters a supportive environment where peer relationships are cultivated and behavior and emotional support are integrated into daily activities. Through a combination of individualized attention, peer support, and community engagement, Believe I Can Academy helps individuals with special needs thrive academically, socially, and personally.
How has your company grown and developed?
Believe I Can Academy began in 2012 as a humble homeschool called “Sarah and Lilly’s Homeschool,” started in the bedroom of my condo. What began as a deeply personal journey to provide meaningful, individualized education for my own child quickly grew as word spread and other families sought the same supportive environment for their children with special needs.
With each year, our community expanded, and new growth opportunities arose. Every move—from the condo bedroom to shared spaces, and eventually to our own dedicated facilities—has allowed us to reach more families and offer a wider range of services. As they welcomed more students, families, and dedicated staff, they developed new programs like after-school care, inclusive camps, and independent living and work skills training for adults.
Each stage of growth has strengthened our sense of community and deepened our commitment to serving individuals with special needs. What started as a small, family-driven endeavor has blossomed into a thriving non-profit organization, empowering students and their families and building a collaborative, inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.
What are you most excited about when joining the Chamber?
Believe I Can Academy was active in the Tempe Chamber of Commerce and enjoyed the community and support it provided. Joining the Mesa Chamber of Commerce will provide Believe I Can Academy with valuable opportunities to strengthen and expand its impact in the community. Through the Chamber, the Academy will gain access to a network of local businesses, non-profits, and community leaders, fostering meaningful partnerships and collaborations. This increased visibility will help raise awareness about the Academy’s mission and unique programs, attracting potential supporters, volunteers, and donors.
Membership will also provide professional development, business resources, and advocacy support, helping Believe I Can Academy stay informed about local initiatives and best practices. Participation in Chamber events and activities will create avenues to share the Academy’s story, celebrate successes, and build relationships with organizations that share a commitment to inclusion and community service.
Ultimately, joining the Mesa Chamber of Commerce will help Believe I Can Academy connect with more families, expand its programs, and further its mission of empowering individuals with special needs through education, advocacy, and collaborative community involvement.
What sets this company apart?
Believe I Can Academy tailors programming to the individual, not the masses. They are also inclusive to all abilities, siblings, and neuro-typical individuals as well.
