Our Pennsylvania Roots
Founded by local families who understood the unique challenges of Prader Willi Syndrome, our alliance was born from a need for localized support and advocacy across the Commonwealth. We are dedicated to providing a lifeline of high-quality education and meaningful community connections, ensuring that no family in Pennsylvania walks this path alone.
Our Board of Directors
The Prader Willi Alliance of Pennsylvania is guided by a dedicated group of leaders, many of whom are parents and professionals deeply connected to the PWS community. Our board is committed to ensuring that every family in the Commonwealth has access to the advocacy, education, and support they need.
Jessica Kempa
Board President
Jessica is a dedicated advocate for individuals and families affected by PWS, inspired by her daughter Kaia’s diagnosis. She serves as a Parent Mentor and Advocacy Ambassador with PWSAUSA, working to advance awareness, early diagnosis, and access to care for the PWS community
Krysten Leighty
Treasurer
Krysten, mother to a young daughter living with PWS, is passionate about improving the lives of individuals with PWS across the state of PA. Her background in business ownership and corporate marketing, She is focused on building a sustainable foundation to support the Alliance’s long-term impact and community partnership.
Cinda Ball
Secretary
Cinda, mother to an adult daughter diagnosed with PWS at 15 d.o. in 1997 and part of the “2nd generation of PWS kids” due to advances in genetic testing, is excited to funnel her hope and energy into PWAofPA and is focused on keeping transparent records, building our membership, and advancing our advocacy goals for PWS in PA. Her hope and prayer is for her daughter to be “okay” and for then she can devote herself to giving back to others living with PWS.
Cindy Szapacs
Board Member
Cindy Szapacs is a board-certified behavior analyst and dedicated mother of two boys. Her professional and personal journey became deeply intertwined with Prader-Willi Syndrome after her oldest son was diagnosed shortly after birth. She is passionate about improving quality of life through compassionate, evidence-based care and advocacy.
To Be Announced
Board Member
TBD
To provide a lifeline of education and advocacy for every family in Pennsylvania living with Prader Willi Syndrome.
A future where every individual with PWS in Pennsylvania receives the care, understanding, and community support they need to lead a fulfilling life.
Creating a Legacy of Impact
Advocacy & Guidance
Assisting you to advocate whether in healthcare or education or taking our needs to the state capitol. We strive to ensure your family is heard at every level.
Statewide Connection
Fostering lifelong friendships and vital peer connections through local support groups and family gatherings across Pennsylvania.
Resource Empowerment
Making sure families can find
the best providers, services, and organizations across Pennsylvania. Our team is here to help you navigate these PWS resources with confidence and care.
Leading with Collaboration
We believe that the path to better outcomes for Prader Willi Syndrome is paved through partnership. By supporting world-class researchers, clinical specialists, and national advocacy organizations like PWSA | USA and FPWR, the Prader Willi Alliance of Pennsylvania ensures that our families have access to the latest breakthroughs and the highest standard of care across the Commonwealth. Our collaborations extend from local healthcare systems to global research initiatives, creating a unified voice for advocacy and a robust network of expertise that strengthens every family’s journey.