Ep 29: Pioneers in PWS - Residential Care and the Professional Providers Advisory Board

Introducing Pioneers in PWS, a new podcast series from PWS United in honor of PWSA | USA's 50th Anniversary!

Before there were conferences, support groups, or even a central source of information on Prader-Willi syndrome, there were pioneers. Parents, professionals, and advocates who built the foundation of the PWS community—one connection, one breakthrough, one act of determination at a time. In honor of PWSA | USA’s 50th anniversary, we’re diving into their stories. Pioneers in PWS was originally a PWSA | USA blog series produced in 2021 by our dedicated volunteers. Throughout 2025, we'll look back on these articles to explore where we’ve been, how far we’ve come, and recognize the pioneers who made it possible.

With National Caregivers Day falling on February 21st, we’re kicking off the series with a look back at the formation and impact of the Professional Providers Advisory Board. Since 2008, this group has been instrumental in shaping best practices for residential care providers supporting individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome. Join us as we revisit the history and evolution of this essential advisory board with two special guests: Jeff Covington, a founding member of the board and former co-chair (2012-2014), and Stacy Ward, CEO of PWSA | USA. Together, they’ll share their insights on the challenges, milestones, and lasting impact of the board’s work in improving residential care and training for professional providers worldwide.

Episode links:
Original Pioneers in PWS blog article - https://www.pwsausa.org/pioneers-devoted-to-educating-and-supporting-residential-care-and-education-professionals/
Technology Supports: https://www.pwsausa.org/resources-a-z/technology-supports/
Best Practice Guidelines for Standard of Care in PWS: https://ipwso.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/PWS-Best_Practice_Guidelines.pdf  
2025 International PWS Conference (Register to attend this year's Professional Providers Conference): https://pwsausaevents.cventevents.com/event/04353c7a-d6b1-45f9-9d6f-48acda9cd07e/home
PWSA | USA's 2024 Residential Providers Conference Recap: https://www.pwsausa.org/residentialprovidersconference/