Here we are at Walk Season again! I am so happy and proud to report back to you that it's been a fantastic year for both Patrick and the Autism Project of RI.
Let me fill you in. First Patrick's Progress...Patrick is in the 5th grade, reads better, has learned how to ski and take care of himself. He has a best friend for the first time ever. They are two peas in a pod and truly enjoy each other. He is so funny and the first to kiss me on any given day. He's a terrific swimmer, party planner and host. Each year he makes great strides and we believe it's because of the information we received from the Autism Project. He is also blessed with two of the best brothers anyone could ask for. Mike and Danny teach him every day and are so humble, I can't help but grin ear to ear. I have three of the best boys!
My work with the Autism Project is also rewarding. I work with a strong and talented group of professionals who do the work to improve the lives of children with autism and their familis. Just four years ago we started this journey to help a group of teachers reach out to help more families, teachers and children with autism. Just this past year we helped more than 3,000 people!
Because of your generosity and support, in 2005-2006 the Autism Project of RI:
Expanded training programs to help parents and professionals across our state to learn about Autism Spectrum Disorders and Asperger Syndrome;
Developed a new level of training for parents of newly diagnosed children in English and Spanish;
Expanded camp to enable 120 campers to attend;
Created the first Parent Resource Center in RI;
Developed Social Skills Groups for children of all ages and abilities. More than 300 chidlren participated in our first year;
Sponsored legislation to mandate early screening of all children for ASD and to expand public education of first signs;
Hired a Parent Liaison to talk to parents on the phone. We average 25 phone calls each week from first time callers looking for resources and information on how to best help their child;
Consulted across RI to educate professionals and community partners on how to support children with autism.
Because of your support of the Autism Project, Patrick and hundreds of children like him had a better year.
Every 20 minutes a child is born with autism. Other national groups are raising money for research, and that's important. We MUST stop this epidemic. But as we support research, we MUST support families struggling today to raise a child with autism. We are raising money to help today's generation of children with autism who need extensive support and services to make it through the day.
Thank you for your continued support. What a difference it has made! Please know that 94% of every dollar goes to programs to help chidlren with autism and their families.
Thank you for visiting my Personal Fundraising Page. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to make a contribution to our fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!