Faculty Profile: Judy Given

Judy Schmerling Given is the daughter of Abe Shmerling, after whom Abe’s Garden is named, Given worked with her brother to found the organization in memory of their father. Given helps families determine which programs and services meet their needs and lends support through the transition process. She also identifies needs to develop new community- based programs. Given brings a background as a Clinical Professional Counselor and business owner, and has experience working as a director of clinical services and an expressive arts therapist at a special education school in Maryland. She has been working at Park Manor Apartments and Abe’s Garden for over 11 years.