Meet Our Devoted Team
Aurelia Walker
Founder
Aurelia began MikesPlayground Corporation in 2021 after witnessing the lack of resources available to her disabled grandson and wanting to make a difference in both her daughter’s and grandson’s life. She took up the responsibility of becoming a full time care provider and fought for access to the necessary resources to keep her grandson alive and smiling.
Aurelia was born in San Francisco California, as the youngest of five siblings where she learned the core values of responsibility and the importance of helping others. For over 28 years Aurelia was employed at State Farm where she built discipline and developed empathy for those around her, now Aurelia uses her abilities for the greater good of the community.
Roberto Thompson II
President
As President, Roberto works to hone MikesPlayground’s impactful reach enhancing the efforts and vision of leadership, shining a light on the organization’s goal to enrich the lives of special needs children. With his background in team building, training, networking, and entrepreneurship; he practices compliance, organizational efficiency, customer service, and personal development.
Fermen Smith
Vice President
With 5+ years as VP of Operations in health and wellness, Fermen Smith brings strategic leadership and a heart for community impact to Mike’s Playground. His experience serving seniors, veterans, and families drives his passion for inclusive, purpose-driven programming.
Inspired by Mike’s story, Fermen is committed to expanding access for underserved groups. His long-term vision is to build Mike’s Wellness Center—a space offering fitness, mentorship, nutrition, education, and agriculture for special needs children, seniors, veterans, and youth to grow, heal, and thrive together.
Philip McGeorge
Executive Director
Pamela Smith
Executive Administrator
Pamela Smith, a Fair Oaks, CA resident since 2000, was raised in a military family, learning the value of responsibility and hard work early on. She passed these values to her four children, all college graduates and contributors to society.
After a 35-year career in automotive finance, Pamela ran a Family Home Provider business, caring for individuals with disabilities. Now an IHSS provider and executive administrator of Mike’s Playground, she advocates for adults with autism.
Her mission is to create a 50+ acre tiny-home community for adults with autism, providing a supportive space for them to thrive while offering relief to their families.
Alma R. Sotomayor
CEO's Secretary & Advisor
Alma forte lies in structured organization to optimize outcomes. Married for 36-years and raised 3 college grad children. I spent 35 years working for State Farm, rising to VP of HERO group and fostering Hispanic advancement. I pioneered a voting system, boosted productivity & aided Spanish-speaking clients. Enjoys sewing, crafts, baking, event planning. Now retired, passionate about travel and caring for a lively 2-month-old Yorkie pup.
Karen S. Francisco
Research Developer
Elizabeth Marquis
Consultant
I have an educational background in psychology, sociology, as well as social and behavioral sciences. Working in convention services, I utilize these skills to accurately and efficiently bring a client’s vision to life. I enjoy working one-on-one with client’s to plan out their events from start to finish. Seeing these events in action after months, if not years, of planning is incredibly fulfilling. Mikes Playground provides me the opportunity to continue doing something I love, for a cause that I am honored to be a part of.
Tammy Langdon
Consultant
I am the owner and teacher of Langdon’s Little Learners, a fully inclusive childcare. I have a Masters in education and hold a California Teaching Credential as well as an early childhood Montessori Credential. I have worked with children of many different abilities for over 16 years. I am working to create a school that allows children to learn at their own pace while still presenting a challenge.
With MikesPlayground, I assist by providing the child’s perspective within our many projects. My knowledge of children’s behavior and development allow me to see things outside of the adult mind.
OUR LATEST BLOG
Checkout news & updates
Powerful Voices, United March: Sacramento & Delano Honor Legacy, Demand Justice
On March 29 and 31, thousands marched through Sacramento and Delano in two powerful events led by SEIU, UDW, and community leaders. With drum-lines, low riders, and speeches from leaders like SEIU President Arnulfo De La Cruz and Attorney General Rob Bonta, both marches delivered strong messages of unity, justice, and workers’ rights.
Cultivating Hope: How Farming Transforms the Lives of Special Needs Children and Young Adults
Discover how farming empowers special needs children and young adults by fostering mental and physical growth, building life skills, and promoting independence. Learn how selling at farmers markets enhances confidence and community inclusion.
California’s Prop 4 in 2024: Empowering Children Through Inclusive Playgrounds
California’s Prop 4 in 2024 is a critical opportunity to create inclusive play spaces for children of all abilities. At MikesPlayground, we stand firmly behind Proposition 4 as it aligns with our mission to empower special needs children by providing accessible recreational areas. This isn’t about politics—it’s about the future of our children. Vote yes on Prop 4 and help us build a more inclusive California!