About We Rock the Spectrum Summerville
Ray and Mandi Plesscher are the proud parents of five children. Their youngest son, Walker, was born in 2019 with a brain injury called Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE). From just three months old, Walker began intensive therapies to address his developmental needs. Then, in October 2022, he was diagnosed with autism—a life-changing moment for their family.
As Mandi navigated the complexities of raising a child with autism, she recognized the need for a supportive community. She launched a local support group for moms of autistic children in Summerville. The group quickly grew, bringing together over 400 members who shared similar journeys, challenges, and hopes.
Through this community, Mandi became acutely aware of the lack of safe, inclusive spaces for children with special needs to play, learn, and grow. During a family visit to We Rock the Spectrum in Lafayette, Louisiana, Ray and Mandi found inspiration. They realized this was the answer they had been searching for—a sensory-friendly gym where children of all abilities could thrive.
Determined to meet this need in their own community, Ray and Mandi set out to bring the We Rock experience to Summerville. Their dedication and vision culminated in the creation of We Rock Summerville, a welcoming haven for children and families, offering opportunities for connection, growth, and joy.
Our Gym Includes:
- SUSPENDED EQUIPMENT WITH SWINGS – FOR BALANCE AND VESTIBULAR TREATMENT
- CRASH MATS AND CRASH PILLOWS – FOR FUN, MOTOR PLANNING, AND STRENGTH
- ZIP SLIDER – FOR STRESS RELEASE AND JOINT AND BODY RELAXATION
- TRAMPOLINE – FOR BUILDING LEG AND CORE STRENGTH
- INDOOR PLAY STRUCTURE – FOR CLIMBING AND INCREASING PLAYGROUND SKILLS
- SENSORY-BASED TOYS AND EQUIPMENT– FOR IMPROVED AUDITORY PROCESSING AND FINE MOTOR SKILLS
- FINE MOTOR AND ARTS AND CRAFTS AREA – FOR IMPROVED HAND-EYE COORDINATION
- CALMING ROOM – FOR REGULATING EMOTIONS, AND REDUCE NEGATIVE SENSORY INPUT
- PRIVATE ROOM FOR B-DAY PARTIES, PRIVATE EVENTS AND CLASSES
- RETAIL SHOP + HEALTHY SNACKS AND BEVERAGES
Meet our awesome and friendly staff
Courtney Lewis-Utrata
Chief Executive Officer
Jeff Utrata
Chief Operations Officer
Lorrie DeLoach
Financial Manager
Lindsey Salazar
Program Director
