Our Team | Nexus Center for IDD Care

The Heart Behind Nexus

Kara Robinson Reader

Founder, Executive Director & Certified Phlebotomist

As a certified phlebotomist and the mother of a child with an intellectual disability, Kara knows firsthand how overwhelming a simple blood draw can be. That experience became her mission.

She founded The Nexus Center for IDD Care to create a space where every individual is met with patience, compassion, and the time they deserve—and to build a future where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience healthcare without fear, trauma, or barriers.

Compassion First
IDD Advocate
Certified Phlebotomist
Proud Mom

The Reason Nexus Exists

Dwayne Reader

Volunteer Consultant & Chief Inspiration Officer

Dwayne is the reason The Nexus Center exists. As Kara’s son, his experiences navigating healthcare as an individual with an intellectual disability opened her eyes to what was missing—and lit the fire to build something better.

He didn’t just inspire the mission—he helped shape it. Dwayne’s perspective keeps Kara creative, motivated, and always thinking about how to make every visit more comfortable for the people Nexus serves.

The Inspiration
Creative Spark
Volunteer Consultant
Mom’s #1 Fan

Board of Directors

Guiding the mission.

Our volunteer board keeps Nexus accountable to the families we serve and to the donors who make sponsored memberships possible.

Jessica Nandino

Board President

Debbie Bentley

Board Member & Treasurer

Mom of 9, grandma of 15 (and 2 more on the way!)
Her son Tommy inspired her lifelong dedication to children with disabilities
8 years working with special needs students
Eagle-level Scout leader (Wood Badge trained!)
Owns her own electronics manufacturing firm
Graduated summa cum laude from Orem High School

“Tommy taught me that these children are extraordinary—and so are the families who love them.”

Join the Team

Help us build Nexus.

We’re looking for volunteers, board and committee members, staff, and therapists who share our vision of healthcare without fear. Whether you can give an hour a month or bring years of experience, we’d love to hear from you.