"Building Connections, Empowering Kids, and Finding Joy in the Everyday"
At Easterseals Arkansas, our team members are the heart behind the hope we bring to children and families every day. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Dylan Hamby, a passionate occupational therapist whose creativity, advocacy, and heart for service shine through in every aspect of his work in Outpatient Therapy.
A Passion for Pediatrics and a Commitment to Growth
Dylan’s journey to Easterseals Arkansas began during a pivotal moment in his education. While completing a three-month clinical rotation in a preschool/outpatient setting during OT school, Dylan discovered something special.
"I was struck by the passion, dedication, and longevity of the therapists on staff," Dylan recalls. "It was clear Easterseals wasn’t just a place to work—it was a place to grow."
That early experience set the foundation for what would become a lasting commitment to pediatric occupational therapy. He loved working with infants and toddlers and saw Easterseals as an opportunity to deepen his skills while collaborating with a team that values creativity, teamwork, and heart.
Now in his fifth year as an occupational therapist, Dylan has become an integral part of the Pediatric Outpatient Therapy team, working with families and children to empower independence and growth.
From Small-Town Roots to Big Dreams
Dylan grew up in Calico Rock, Arkansas, a close-knit town where everyone knew everyone. It’s where he first learned the value of showing up for others — a lesson that continues to guide him today.
While he cherishes his roots, Dylan knew he needed to step outside of his comfort zone to pursue bigger dreams. He earned his Associate of Arts in Science, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Sociology, and then achieved his ultimate goal: an Occupational Therapy Doctorate from the University of Central Arkansas.
Throughout his academic journey, one piece of advice from a professor stuck with him:
"You can strip everything from a man—his clothes, his money, his home—but you cannot strip him of his education."
It’s a belief that continues to shape how Dylan approaches his career and life.
Advocacy, Sensory Integration, and Meaningful Progress
At Easterseals, Dylan is widely known for two things: his fierce advocacy and his expertise in sensory integration. He's the go-to "sensory person" on the team and is currently pursuing a 180-hour certification in Ayres Sensory Integration to better support the children he serves.
"Meaningful progress happens when we empower both the child and the team around them," Dylan says.
Whether it's recommending sensory strategies, collaborating with teachers and therapists, or standing firm during tough conversations, Dylan is a steadfast advocate for his clients.
Seeing his recommendations come to life—when a child stays regulated during a busy school day or reaches a new milestone—is what fuels his passion.
Life Outside the Therapy Room: Family, Film, and Fun
When he's not working, Dylan embraces life with the same joy and heart he brings to his therapy sessions.
He shares his life with his partner Brad, a talented filmmaker, and their beloved Goldendoodle Cooper—who keeps their home lively and full of laughter.
A big foodie at heart, Dylan loves exploring new restaurants, hosting community events, spending time on the lake, and (of course) binging Friends for the 10th+ time. Humor, he says, is his secret ingredient — both in and out of work.
"Humor is more than just making people laugh. It's how I bring light into heavy situations, how I build connection, and how I keep showing up when the work is hard," he shares.
Giving Back and Leading with Purpose
Dylan’s heart for service extends beyond his clinical work. He proudly serves as a founding board member for a local nonprofit that provides hippotherapy and equine-assisted therapy for individuals who might otherwise miss out on such opportunities. He’s also deeply involved with the Little Rock Developmental Preschool Parent Teacher Therapy Organization.
And if you attended the first annual Easterseals Pickleball Classic, you can thank Dylan for helping lead the charge — raising over $7,000 for new therapy equipment for kids!
A Legacy of Love, Laughter, and Advocacy
When asked how he hopes to be remembered, Dylan's answer is simple but powerful:
"I want to be remembered as someone who showed up—with heart, with purpose, and with humor. Someone who made kids feel celebrated, families feel supported, and coworkers feel part of something meaningful."
He hopes his legacy will be one of light in heavy moments, resilience in challenges, and unwavering belief in the children and families he serves.
And a fun fact? Dylan is a first-generation college graduate—a proud combination of his family's blue-collar work ethic and his own drive for education and service.
Thank You, Dylan — And Discover More at Easterseals!
At Easterseals Arkansas, professionals like Dylan Hamby embody the passion, innovation, and heart that define our mission. Through his work in Pediatric Outpatient Therapy, Dylan helps children discover their strength, one meaningful moment at a time.
Want to join a team that’s making a difference every day?
Visit Easterseals Arkansas Careers to learn more.
