We are providing an environment for our members to grow & excel
CDE is a company designed to service individuals with developmental disabilities. Although the company name implies that we focus on children, we do much more. We offer Habilitation, Respite, Attendant Care and Individual Design Living Arrangement (IDLA) services to individuals of all ages. CDE is contracted to provide services across the state of Arizona. CDE upholds a quality image of providing excellent service, with care and compassion. CDE’s goal is to establish long term relationships between our members and staff. CDE will meet all of their members needs with dignity and respect. Everyone affiliated with CDE upholds high morals and standards, because to us this is so much more than just a job. We all have personal and/or professional experience with individuals with developmental disabilities, so at CDE we take our line of work very seriously. CDE’s most important factor is quality of service
CDE makes a point to do group outings into the community on a regular basis. Past trips include the Fire House, local parks, Amazing Jakes, Water Parks, the Phoenix Zoo, the State Fair, McDonalds Field Trip, the Ostrich Farm, the Circus, Casa Grande National Ruins, and Sensory Friendly Movies. Individuals can go on these outings with their provider only, or guardians and siblings are welcome to attend as well. The more the merrier! On top of our Group Outings, CDE also offers an opportunity for our members ages 14-23 to get together in our “Teen Fun Fellowship Group.” In this group teens can hang out at kickbacks, go to the movies or attend our annual camping trip and interact with friends their own age. Our adult members, ages 45 and up, can join the “Adult Sociables,” to interact on a more adult level and at a slower pace. Members of this group can enjoy outings to various restaurants and buffets, bowling, or going to the movies.
CDE services apply to anyone receiving DDD hours, with no out of pocket cost to the families or caregivers. If you are not currently receiving DDD hours, but feel you may be eligible for hours, please contact CDE for more information.
Our Staff
Aquilina Mendez-Faultner
CEO
Phone: (602)-367-0071
Email: Lina@topcde.com
My husband and I started Child Development & Education in 2007. Prior to that, I worked in the fields of education and nursing. I have always had a passion for assisting people and helping them find their true potential. As CEO, I oversee all aspects of business, from legal to day-to-day operations. I make sure all the members needs are met in the most efficient, professional, and caring way. My continuous goal is to ensure the company runs smooth, member’s physical and emotional needs are met, and staff feel valued, appreciated, and are passionate about their position and its impact on the members.
On a personal note: I graduated from South Mountain Community College in 2005 with an Associates Degree in Elementary Education. I graduated from Northern Arizona University in 2017 with a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies – Public Administration. I have 4 amazing children, and 3 beautiful grandbabies.
Adam Faultner
Director
Phone: (480)-559-2232
Email: Adam@topcde.com
Hello, my name is Adam Faultner. I am a Director at Child Development & Education LLC & TopCDE DTA in Coolidge Arizona.
My wife Lina & I started CDE in February 2007.
My background is in truck driving and some small ranching and operating equipment. My role here at CDE is maintaining all the facilities needs and vehicles keeping everything safe for members and employees. I’m involved in all round table policy meetings and assist in policy adjustments. My passion for CDE starts with the members. I want to ensure every member and employee feels like they are the most important person here and know how important every role is in our CDE family. From employee to member everyone on our team is vital for CDE’s success and we are grateful and excited to serve our community.
Chelsie Richerson
Compliance Specialist, DTA Supervisor, Southern Regional Manager
Phone: (520)-705-9954
Email: Chelsie@topcde.com
Hello! My name is Chelsie Richerson 🙂 I started with Top CDE in May of 2017. I have worked in pretty much all aspects of the company. Currently I am the DTA Supervisor. I love helping our young adults find their independence and watching them grow. I also serve as CDE’s Compliance Specialist, handling matters from incident reports to all things COVID related. Lastly, I am the Southern Regional Manager. I ensure that all of our families in Tucson, Nogales, Rio Rico, and surrounding areas are getting the care they need. It is so fun to meet so many families and match them up with a perfect provider!
Amanda Felix
HCBS Manager
Phone: (520)-709-2291
Email: Amanda@topcde.com
Hello my name is Amanda Felix. I started working with special needs children 14 years ago in a special education resource room. My passion grew over the years with working with special needs children and adults. I have been working with Child Development & Education for the last 9 years. I’m the HCBS Manager I work hand and hand with the families and the staff. I meet with families to start services such as respite, attendant care and habilitation. I attend meetings with my families to give them support for their loved ones and advocate on their behalf. My hobbies are hanging with family, I as well have special needs kiddos that send me on an adventure everyday.
Ariah Faultner
Marketing Manager
Email: Ariah@topcde.com
Hello !
My name is Ariah Faultner. I began working with CDE as an office assistant in 2014 and worked my way up to the marketing managing position I am in now. In my position I plan and promote events for our members. I also work in-home with members as well as at our DTA in Coolidge, AZ. I received my bachelors in psychology and will be receiving my masters in Applied Behavioral Analysis. Nothing gives me more joy than to work directly with the members and watch them grow through their journey here with CDE. Our mission here at CDE is to help the members grow into the successful individuals they aspire to be. We believe that through assistance and nurturing care all goals are possible and we are enthusiastic about ensuring our members goals and needs are met.
Miriam Martinez
Administrative Assistant
Phone: (520)-483-5059
Email: Miriam@topcde.com
Hello, My name is Miriam Martinez. I have been an administrative assistant with TOPCDE Since August of 2020. In my current position I am responsible for maintaining records and files, interpreting, and all clerical aspects that pertain to our members, their families and our employees. These duties are performed in person and via phone communication. I also assist and participate in the daily events with members of the day program. Watching our members succeed is definitely the best part about my role at Top CDE!