Some of us are lucky enough to fall into careers that we love, where just coming to work is a joyful part of the day. Fewer have been purposeful, have seized the brass ring and gotten into those careers through hard work, perseverance and, yes, even a little bit of luck. The path to Tarita Davenock’s dream career was decided by an entirely different kind of luck. A social worker whose specialty was in helping children and adults with special needs, she had stability; her BAs in English and Psychology ensured the future of that stability. In fact, as a candidate for a Master’s Degree, all she needed was a bit of time and some creative budgeting and the world, a world she had traveled extensively, would be her oyster.

All of this stability was shattered when, at the age of 29, Tarita was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and was struck with the realization that her life would never be the same. Knowing that her best way forward was to take hold of that life and ensure that its direction was one of her own choosing, that the MS was not going to control her future, she seized on a passion for travel she had nursed since childhood. Tarita became an entrepreneur in an industry where she has been able to carve out a significant niche, based on a personal philosophy that travel should be Inclusive and not exclusive.

Seventeen years later, Tarita has found her place as an expert in creating dream vacations for those who thought dream vacations were for other people. A Certified Special Needs Travel Advocate, she takes great pride in ensuring that, regardless of your level of mobility or ability, you will have the experience of a lifetime.

Tarita feels that all businesses should be run with a Pay it Forward philosophy, and her desire to make a difference doesn’t just apply to people; she is a passionate animal rights activist, and gives generously to her local SPCA through a Paws for Holidays campaign. A portion of all her travel earnings goes to help animals in need, both locally and nationwide.

We caught up with Tarita to learn more about how she helps people travel! Here’s what she had to say…

Please tell us about your site, Tarita's Travel Connections... 

My website shares a bit about me and my journey as well as highlights some fantastic accessible travel destinations. There are specific tours as well as various videos showing trips for specific needs; blind, deaf, and wheelchair travel.

What inspired you to help people travel?

At 29 when I was diagnosed with MS, I remained in social work for a few years; however, due to its stressful nature, it was recommended that I change careers. I had traveled the world and travel was a passion I had nursed since childhood. Travel agent seemed a great fit and when a position was in a local paper; 'kismet' intervened and I began my new career the following week. I spent 15 years learning on the job; my travel knowledge, and very strangely, my Masters in Behavioral Psychology created a great foundation! In my 17 years within the industry; consistently I have noticed a lack of knowledge regarding the needs of the 'disabled' traveler. It became evident that the media and travel suppliers needed some education on what was needed to accommodate the special needs travel niche. Perhaps this is my 'calling' in life to create a conversation demanding inclusion in travel.

What do you do, as a Certified Special Needs Travel Advocate?

I arrange vacations for those with various special needs; deaf, blind, walkers, wheelchair, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, and Down Syndrome, etc. for adults and children to wherever they dream of visiting.

How do you help people with their travels?

I arrange tailored vacations that accommodate their specific needs, arrange various transportation; flights, trains, bus etc. I can also look after their travel insurance needs.

Is there anything else you'd like to share with us? 

I am passionate in creating a vacation that will create memories and re-kindle your desire to see our world.

LOVE this! Learn more at:

http://taritastravelconnections.com/

Photo courtesy and copyright Tarita Davenock