 Our quarterly Heart & Soul Fall 2024 newsletter has just been released. In this edition of Heart & Soul, we are excited to share the latest stories of growth, success, and community at Autism Communities. From impactful resident updates to new partnerships and initiative insights - we are continuing to expand our reach and enhance our programs. Stay tuned for upcoming events and opportunities to get involved as we work together to create inclusive, supportive environment for all!
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We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported and attended our 2nd Annual Nine & Dine Golf Outing last Wednesday at Timber Point Golf Course. Thanks to your generosity, we raised an amazing $75,000. These funds will directly support Autism Communities and further our mission in facilitating sustainable, inclusive housing for young adults with autism and intellectual developmental disabilities. In addition to supporting housing opportunities, your contributions will help us continue to provide vital programs and services, such as Club AC - our social and education program - and the Friend Responders Initiative in partnership with the Suffolk County Police Department, which bridges the connection between first responders and our community. Whether you played golf, sponsored, joined us for dinner or made a donation, your contributions were invaluable to the success of our event. It is through your support that we are able to achieve this remarkable milestone and make a lasting impact on the people we serve. Plans are already underway for next year's event, and we can't wait to see you again! Together, we are making a lasting impact for change - building brighter futures, fostering inclusion, and empowering lives!  Our quarterly Heart & Soul Summer 2024 newsletter has just been released. Dive into what is happening at Autism Communities and learn about our upcoming events, newest campaigns and how we are continuing to provide and expand the programs and services we offer.
 Today marks the launch of Autism Communities "Friend Responders" campaign, a collaborative initiative with the Suffolk County Police Department. This campaign is designed to foster mutual understanding and trust between neurodiverse individuals and first responders. During a press conference held on Monday, June 24 at Greenview Properties, North District Lofts in Bay Shore, Police Commissioner Robert Waring emphasized the departments support for the campaign stating "this is especially important as we believe it will give both the officers and the residents a better understanding of one another and alleviate potential misunderstandings during times of crisis. Our hope is that no matter the emergency, our officer will be recognized as a friendly face." KEY ASPECTS OF THE CAMPAIGN INCLUDE:
Steven Niciforo, our newest resident to North District Lofts, and other Autism Communities' residents from Westbrook Village in East Islip joined the conference. Steven spoke about his experience moving into his first apartment after living with his parents for the past 33 years. He shared "I am happy that Autism Communities developed this campaign because living on my own is a new challenge, but knowing that I can call someone in the event of an emergency and see a friendly face truly creates a level of support and confidence to make me feel secure in my new living environment. It is so important that the differently-abled feel included, like they are a part of the community and in turn have the community recognize, support and accept them." Special thanks to the Suffolk County Police Department for their partnership in the Friend Responders campaign. This truly is a beneficial and important initiative and we urge other emergency responder agencies to join by contacting Autism Communities. By working together, we can create safer, more inclusive communities for everyone! If you are interested in learning more or getting involved, please CONTACT US! Exciting Announcement! We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for the first inaugural Long Island Flutie 5K! The Flutie 5K is a fully inclusive race that prides itself on being a gathering place for EVERYONE to be a part of and is open to all ages and abilities. As a host charity partner, we invite you to run, walk or roll with us on October 5 at Belmont Lake State Park in West Babylon. Help us achieve our goal by registering NOW for the 5K Run or Half 5K walk or roll, and ask your friends, family and/or colleagues to support your fundraising efforts. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.  Join us in celebrating our newest resident, Steven Niciforo! Autism Communities is grateful to be a significant part of Steven's road to independence. We share in his parents' pride and determination, as we look forward to supporting this new and exciting chapter in his life! Steven's new home at North District Lofts in Bay Shore, a beautiful development by Greenview Properties, symbolizes not just a physical space but a beacon of hope and inclusivity. It stands as an example of what can be achieved when we come together to create supportive housing solutions that foster independence. Several of our board members and staff were present at this significant milestone, lending hands and joining hearts to celebrate Steven's move. Their presence was a heartfelt gesture of support, recognizing the hard work and perseverance that has defined Steven's journey. To our community and the team at Greenview Properties, we express our deepest appreciation for making moments like these possible. Together, we are not only building community, but dreams and opportunities! To Steven, we say congratulations and thank you for "inspiring a world built without barriers" - Doreen Jaggs, Autism Communities Chairwoman Stay tuned for an exciting announcement coming soon!On May 31, Club AC members and their guests enjoyed an evening on May 31 of food, fun and excitement at Fairfield Properties Ballpark as the Long Island Ducks defeated by the York Revolution 11-2 in the opener of a three-game series. Not a Club AC member? Enjoy monthly social events, educational programs and more...visit our Club AC page to learn more and to sign up to begin enjoying all Club AC has to offer! Autism Communities fans and supporters came out to rally together for autism awareness at the "Bringing It Home" fundraising event at The Tap Room in Bay Shore on May 17th! We caught all the action as the Yankees and Mets played on the big screen while enjoying fun wearing their favorite team apparel, taking part in the the raffles while enjoying good food and company. On May 11, Autism Communities presented at the The ELIJA School for Autism's Pathway to Adulthood Using Self-Direction: Transitioning to Independence Conference at Hofstra University. ELIJA & THRIVE partnered to present the first comprehensive self-direction conference to help support families navigating the transition from school to adult services for individuals with a developmental disability including Autism. Discussion topics include information on Transition Processes, Self-Direction, Housing (self-directed and certified group homes), Special Needs Trusts, Guardianship and so much more. Special thanks to The ELIJA School for Autism for inviting Autism Communities to present our innovative programs and services.  David was an elevator mechanic for NY Elevator for 14 years and during this time there, he noticed a disconnect in the entrance installation field. He took a leap of faith in his ideas and redesigned from the Union, forming A & D Entrances. A & D has since then been in business for 15 years and is continuously growing. During the last few years, David has taken a passion for getting involved in charities and fundraisers, participating in dozens of events throughout the year. When he discovered Autism Communities, he fell in love with the mission of the organization and rapidly wanted to get involved. David brings a fresh new approach to fundraising and is eager to help bring the Autism Communities vision to fruition.  Join us on September 4th for an exciting day of golf, featuring 9 holes followed by a dinner. Not a golfer? Secure your spot with our dinner ONLY ticket and enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with chances to win fantastic prizes with our 50/50 and raffle baskets...
Click below for more information on the event, available sponsorship opportunities and tickets. Don't miss out - register today and be part of a memorable event! Autism Communities welcomes new board member, Margaret Curran-Rusch. Margaret brings over two decades of leadership in commercial banking, specializing in lending and sales. With a proven track record in fostering collaborative partnerships and driving new business development, she has successfully led teams of commercial lenders to prioritize quality opportunities and portfolio management. Her expertise and commitment to cultivating a culture of success makes her a valuable addition to Autism Communities Board of Directors. We are grateful and look forward to having her on our board as we kick off 2024.  |
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