Who We Are

At 1st Place Care, we believe that every individual deserves compassionate, communicative, and high-quality support—delivered the right way, every time.

Founded by a devoted mother of a child with special needs who teamed up with her friend, a life-long educator, our agency was born from lived experience, deep empathy, and a shared vision for doing things better. As a Direct Services Agency (DSA)* serving participants in the Medicaid Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) waiver program, we specialize in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities—and the families who love them.

We know firsthand the challenges of navigating complex systems and caring for individuals with special needs. We’re here to simplify, uplift, and advocate. Our name reflects our promise: to be 1st Place in service, in integrity, and in the care of those we serve.

Whether you're seeking guidance, resources, or direct support, 1st Place Care is committed to helping clients and their families access what they need for happy, healthy, and independent living.

Located in Fort Worth, 1st Place Care will serve participants in the Fort Worth catchment area (Erath, Hood, Johnson, Palo Pinto, Parker, Somervell, Tarrant, and Wise counties)

*pending completion of final licensing requirements

Sundance Square: An outdoor plaza with empty white tables and chairs, water fountain, historic mural on brick building, string lights, and potted plants, in Fort Worth, Texas.

Meet our Team

  • Headshot of Edward Hicks IV, M.Ed. (Close-up of a smiling man with glasses, a beard, and mustache, wearing a suit and a checkered shirt against a neutral background)

    Edward Hicks IV, M.Ed.

    Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

  • A smiling woman with long wavy blonde hair wearing a blue sleeveless top with a colorful embroidered pattern.

    Sandra "Sandy" Evans

    Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer (COO)

  • A smiling woman with short, curly hair, wearing a black top and a striped jacket, standing in front of a glass wall.

    Shannon Bird, RN

    Chief Registered Nurse

  • A woman with red hair, glasses, and a bright red blazer smiling in front of a dark, textured background.

    LeAnne Bailey, RN

    Registered Nurse