16 Feb 2026 Spark Community welcomes new technology champion

HEBER SPRINGS — Spark Community, formerly the Community School of Cleburne County, has announced the addition of Stephen Spears to its team as technology champion, a role that will expand the organization’s use of innovative tools to increase independence and connection for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Spears brings more than 30 years of experience in media production and storytelling to Spark Community. Born in Texas, he spent part of his childhood in Searcy and later attended Harding University. His career includes work as a news videographer in Little Rock and as a video producer and editor for KARK Ch. 4, Comcast, Equity Media and his own production ventures.

After raising his family in Little Rock with his wife, Toni, Spears relocated to Heber Springs in 2020. He joined Spark Community through a grant-funded initiative focused on Enabling Technologies, an effort designed to help providers creatively use technology to support greater independence for Spark members.

Through this initiative, Spark Community has implemented face-to-face communication devices to provide remote support, delivered augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices to members who have difficulty expressing themselves and introduced the concept of AI companions to enhance daily engagement and support.

“This education and training have helped Spark and me envision countless ways technology can improve the daily lives of the individuals we serve,” Spears said. “I’m excited to combine my past experience with my present passion to help Spark share its message and expand what’s possible for our community.”

Rebecca Dwyer-Coop, CFRE, executive director of Spark Community, said Spears’ background and perspective are a natural fit for the organization’s mission.

“Stephen brings a rare blend of technical expertise, creative storytelling and genuine compassion for the people we serve,” Dwyer-Coop said. “His leadership in technology will help Spark Community continue to innovate, strengthen connections, and empower individuals to live more independent and meaningful lives.”

For more than four decades, Spark Community has provided exemplary care to children and adults with developmental and intellectual delays across north central Arkansas. Most recently, the organization established the Spark Community Foundation with a transformative anonymous gift of $250,000 to support its long-term mission and growth.

For more information about Spears, Spark Community or the Spark Community Foundation, visit SparkArk.org.