COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) – Most parents will do anything for their child and that is the case for Melanie Ray and her 6-year-old daughter, Victoria.

“Victoria means everything to me and to children in general. I wanted to open the doors for other kids to have a place where they could meet friends and have fun,” said Melanie Ray, CEO of Victoria’s Place.

Victoria has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism. Ray wanted to create a shelter where other children with special needs and their parents could live in a community with those living in similar conditions.

“It’s a problem that many parents face, not knowing anyone with a child with special needs, and just wanting someone to talk to. I think it’s very important because you’re not alone and it’s very healthy to have relationships with families to build connections,” Ray said.

Shortly after Victoria was born in 2018, so was Victoria’s Place.

“It’s the face of Victoria, it’s named after my daughter Victoria, she’s the CEO,” Ray said.

Through Victoria’s Place, children can socialize, make friends and participate in five different programs, including art, music, sports, fine motor skills and reading.

Ray said this organization helps children develop confidence and self-esteem. Developments that Ray was able to see personally with Victoria.

“It really helped her come out of her shell, meet other people, pursue new activities and discover what she loves most,” Ray said.

Ray said they also have an annual fashion show, where children are the models. It is an event that matters as much to parents as to children.

“A parent told me it was the first time her special needs child had been in a fashion show and it was all she wanted to see and it brought tears to my eyes ” Ray explained.

Ray wants all children who are a part of Victoria’s Place to feel loved and empowered.

“Children with disabilities are important, they must not be left behind. They must be treated with dignity and respect. That’s what I want to show Victoria’s Place: These kids matter, they mean something,” Ray said.

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