the RYDER FOUNDATION

Who We Are

Maureen Block is a full-time mother living in Marin County with her two children, Nathaniel and Declan. Maureen left investment banking law to have children, and at 18 months old her oldest son Nathaniel exhibited many of the signs and symptoms of autism. He received a PDD diagnosis before turning two. After six years of bio-medical intervention, movement therapy, love and determination, Nathaniel no longer meets the criteria for autism.**

Jenny DeMaria lives in Marin County, California, with her husband Jim and her two children Ryder and Skye. When her son Ryder was diagnosed as moderately autistic in 2004, Jenny extensively researched effective alternative treatments for autism. Jenny also sought the help of Maureen Block, who had great success in recovering her child from autism. Four years after starting various bio-medical interventions and homeopathy, Ryder has made significant progress and he is inching closer to full recovery.**

Deborah Mitchell Johnson, Ph.D. is a psychologist with a full-time private practice in San Francisco. Her involvement in The Ryder Foundation is distinct from her professional pursuits. She was inspired to create The Ryder Foundation out of witnessing her close friend Jenny DeMaria's unwavering determination in finding a cure for her son Ryder. Deborah's strength and leadership have helped guide the Ryder Foundation since its inception.

Lisa Reed brings over a decade of sales and marketing experience to The Ryder Foundation. Her expertise and charisma are the source of the organization's impressive fundraising efforts. Lisa's commitment to The Ryder Foundation is not only an expression of her longtime friendship with Jenny DeMaria, but it is also a reflection of her remarkable charitable spirit.

**While Nathaniel and Ryder are not considered "autistic" anymore, they, like 15-25% of the general population, are still faced with educational challenges.